A collision is stressful enough without wondering how to get the car off the road. Once everyone is safe, call us. We’ll clear your car from the scene and take it wherever it needs to go next, with you in the cab if you’re not hurt.
First things first
If anyone is hurt, or the road is blocked and dangerous, call 999 before you do anything else.
Then, if you can:
- Put your hazard lights on, and get everyone out and away from the traffic
- Swap names, addresses, registration numbers and insurance details with the other driver
- Take photos of the cars, the damage, the road and any skid marks or debris
- Note the names and numbers of anyone who saw what happened
Our guide to what to do after a car accident covers your legal duties and the details insurers ask for.
How we move a damaged car
A car that’s been in an accident often can’t be driven onto a truck. Wheels may be bent or pushed out of line, the steering may be locked, and the brakes may bind. We winch it onto the flatbed, and put skates under any wheel that won’t turn, so the car isn’t dragged or damaged further. Electric and hybrid cars get extra care: if there are any signs of battery damage, such as smoke, hissing or heat, the fire service needs to deal with it before anyone moves the car.
Where your car goes next
- Your insurer’s approved repairer. Insurers usually want the car taken straight to one of their bodyshops. Give us the address, and the claim reference if you have it.
- Your own garage or a main dealer, if you’re paying for the repair yourself.
- Your home, if you want time to talk to your insurer before deciding.
Paying, and getting it back
You’ll get a fixed price before we set off and an itemised invoice afterwards. If the other driver was at fault, their insurer should cover reasonable recovery costs, and your own insurer or broker can tell you how to claim them. Keep the invoice somewhere safe with the rest of your claim paperwork.