Skip to main content

Should I report every RTA to the police?

Should I report every RTA to the police?

Speak To An Expert

Get clear, personalised advice for your situation.

Jot down a few questions to make the most of your conversation.

More Items From Ergsy search


Do you need to report every RTA?

No, not every road traffic accident (RTA) needs to be reported to the police in the UK. It often depends on what happened, whether anyone was injured, and whether specific offences may have been involved.

If the collision is minor and everyone is safe, you may only need to exchange details and inform your insurer. However, if there is injury, damage to property, or any concern about a criminal offence, reporting it can be important.

When you should contact the police

You should report an accident if someone is injured, even if the injury seems minor at first. It is also sensible to contact the police if a driver fails to stop, refuses to give details, or leaves the scene.

Police involvement may also be needed if the other driver appears to be drunk, drugged, uninsured, or driving dangerously. In these situations, reporting the incident quickly can help protect other road users and preserve evidence.

What to do after a minor collision

If the RTA is minor and no one is hurt, stop safely and check whether anyone needs medical help. Exchange names, addresses, vehicle registration numbers, and insurance details with the other driver.

It is also wise to take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible damage. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact details in case you need them later for insurance or a dispute.

When reporting is still a good idea

Even if the police do not need to attend, you may still want to make a report for your own protection. This can be helpful if the other driver later changes their story or denies responsibility.

Reporting may also create a record if you later discover hidden injuries or damage. In some cases, your insurer may expect you to have notified the police, especially where theft, hit-and-run, or serious damage is involved.

What the law says

In the UK, drivers involved in an accident usually have a legal duty to stop and exchange details. If anyone is injured, or details cannot be exchanged at the scene, the law may require the accident to be reported to the police within a set time.

This is why it is important not to assume that a “minor” crash needs no further action. If you are unsure, reporting the incident and getting advice is often the safest option.

Bottom line

You do not need to report every RTA to the police, but some accidents must be reported and many should be. Injury, hit-and-run, suspected drink driving, and serious damage are all strong reasons to contact the police.

When in doubt, report the incident, gather evidence, and notify your insurer as soon as possible. Acting quickly can make the process much easier if the situation later becomes more complicated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I report every RTA to the police?

Not always, but you should report it if anyone is injured, there is a dispute, the other driver leaves the scene, property damage is significant, or your local law requires it.

What counts as an RTA that should be reported?

An RTA usually means a road traffic accident. It should be reported when there are injuries, fatalities, hit-and-run circumstances, suspected impairment, or serious damage.

Do I need to call the police for a minor fender bender?

Often you do not need to call immediately for a minor crash with no injuries, but you should still exchange details, document the scene, and check local reporting rules.

Should I report an accident if no one seems hurt?

If there are no injuries and the crash is minor, police reporting may not be required, but delayed injuries can happen, so document everything and seek medical attention if needed.

What if the other driver refuses to share details?

Report the incident to the police, especially if the other driver is uncooperative, because a police report can help with insurance and legal follow-up.

Should I report a hit-and-run to the police?

Yes. A hit-and-run should always be reported as soon as possible so police can investigate and you can create an official record.

Do I have to report an RTA if only my car was damaged?

You may not always have to, but reporting can still be useful for insurance and documentation, and some jurisdictions require reporting any crash above a certain damage threshold.

Should I call police if there is a dispute about who caused the crash?

Yes. If liability is disputed, a police report can document the scene and statements, which may help resolve the matter later.

What if the accident involves a pedestrian or cyclist?

Report it immediately. Collisions involving pedestrians or cyclists should be treated seriously, even if injuries seem minor at first.

Should I report an RTA if the other vehicle is parked and unattended?

If you hit an unattended vehicle, you should try to locate the owner and follow local rules; if you cannot, reporting it may be necessary, especially if damage is noticeable.

Is police reporting required for every accident with injury?

In many places, yes. Any crash with an injury should be reported promptly to the police and, if needed, emergency services.

Should I report the accident if the other driver seems intoxicated?

Yes. If you suspect intoxication, call the police right away and avoid confrontation.

What if the crash happened on private property?

Reporting rules can still apply on private property, depending on the severity and local law, so check requirements and consider notifying police if there are injuries or major damage.

Do I need a police report for insurance claims?

Not always, but a police report can be very helpful for insurance claims, especially when the facts are unclear or the damage is significant.

Should I report a single-vehicle accident to police?

If no one is injured and there is only minor damage, reporting may not be required, but you should report it if public property was damaged, injuries occurred, or your insurer asks for it.

What if the other driver asks not to involve the police?

Do not rely only on the other driver’s request. If the crash meets reporting criteria or you feel unsafe, contact the police anyway.

Can I wait and report the RTA later?

Some accidents can be reported later, but it is better to do it as soon as possible because details fade and some laws have strict deadlines.

Should I report if only there is a scratch or small dent?

For very minor damage, police reporting may not be necessary, but you should still exchange information, take photos, and check your local reporting obligations.

What information should I have when reporting an RTA?

Have the location, time, vehicle details, driver and witness information, photos, and a brief description of what happened.

How do I know if my local law requires police reporting?

Check your local traffic laws, police website, or insurer guidance, because reporting thresholds and deadlines vary by jurisdiction.

Important Information On Using This Service


This website offers general information and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always seek guidance from qualified professionals. If you have any medical concerns or need urgent help, contact a healthcare professional or emergency services immediately.

Some of this content was generated with AI assistance. We've done our best to keep it accurate, helpful, and human-friendly.

  • Ergsy carefully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
  • Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
  • To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
Using Subtitles and Closed Captions
  • Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
  • You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
Turn Captions On or Off
  • Go to the video you'd like to watch.
  • If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
  • To turn on Captions, click settings.
  • To turn off Captions, click settings again.

More Items From Ergsy search