What to Do After a Car Accident in Dublin
Being in a car accident is stressful and disorienting. Knowing what to do in the moments after a collision helps you stay safe, fulfil your legal obligations, and get the help you need. Follow these steps.
Step 1 — Stop and Check for Injuries
You are legally required to stop after any road accident in Ireland, even a minor one. Switch on your hazard lights immediately and check whether anyone is injured — yourself, your passengers, and the occupants of any other vehicle involved.
If anyone is injured, call 999 immediately. Do not move an injured person unless they are in immediate danger.
Step 2 — Make the Scene Safe
If it's safe to do so, move vehicles to the side of the road to reduce the risk of further collisions. If a vehicle can't be moved, make the scene as visible as possible with hazard lights and, if you have one, a warning triangle placed at a safe distance behind the vehicles.
If you're on the M50 or another motorway and vehicles can't be moved, call 999 immediately — the Gardaí will manage traffic.
Step 3 — Exchange Details
Under Irish road traffic law, all drivers involved in an accident must exchange the following information:
- Full name and address
- Vehicle registration number
- Insurance company name and policy number
If the other driver refuses to provide details, note their registration plate and contact the Gardaí. Don't admit liability at the scene — this is a matter for your insurer to determine.
Step 4 — Document the Scene
Before anything is moved (or while waiting for Gardaí), take photos and notes:
- Photos of all vehicles involved and their positions
- Photos of any damage to all vehicles
- The road layout, road markings, and any traffic signs
- Any skid marks or debris on the road
- Names and contact details of any witnesses
- The time and exact location of the accident
Step 5 — Involve the Gardaí If Needed
You must report the accident to the Gardaí if anyone was injured, if there is significant property damage, or if the other driver refuses to exchange details. Even for minor accidents with no injuries, it's often worth reporting — your insurer may require a Garda incident number.
Step 6 — Arrange Vehicle Recovery
If your vehicle is not driveable after an accident, you'll need to arrange recovery. Call Dublin Tow on 085 820 8677 and we'll come to your location. We work alongside Gardaí at accident scenes regularly and can clear the scene quickly and safely.
We'll transport your vehicle to any garage, bodyshop, or address you choose. If you're not sure where to send it, we can take it to a safe location while you arrange the next step.
Step 7 — Notify Your Insurer
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. Most insurers require prompt notification. Have the details you collected at the scene ready — the other driver's information, your photos, and any Garda report number.
Involved in an accident in Dublin? Call Dublin Tow for fast, professional accident recovery.
Call 085 820 8677Car Accident in Dublin — Common Questions
Not every accident needs to be reported, but you must report it if someone was injured, if there was significant property damage, or if the other driver refused to provide their details. Even where not legally required, it's often worth reporting for insurance purposes.
No — do not admit liability or fault at the scene. Simply exchange details. Liability is determined by your insurance companies, not by what's said at the roadside. An admission made at the scene can complicate your claim later.
Yes — Dublin Tow provides accident recovery across all of Dublin, 24/7. We're experienced working at accident scenes alongside Gardaí and will reach you in around 30 minutes. Call 085 820 8677 as soon as you need us.
If the other driver is uninsured, you may be able to claim through the Motor Insurers Bureau of Ireland (MIBI), which compensates victims of uninsured driving in Ireland. Contact your own insurer first and they will advise you on the process.