Data from a new study has revealed that 3.15 million UK drivers don’t know what steps they should take immediately after an accident in their car.
In a survey of more than 1,000 motorists by Scrap Car Comparison, the study found that many motorists were uncertain about the essential actions required in the event of a car accident, as well as other important details related to their motor insurance and breakdown coverage.
What to do after an accident
While a seemingly small percentage of just 6% of drivers said they wouldn’t know what to do in the event of an accident, with 52.5 million licence holders in the UK that amounts to more than three million motorists being unprepared for the worst.
This number rose dramatically for millennials (25-34-year-olds), the most unprepared of any age group, with 11% stating they wouldn’t know what to do in the event of an accident.
The research also revealed that more than five million UK drivers couldn’t remember who their current car insurer was, especially among those aged between 17-24, with 21% of Gen Z motorists drivers unable to recall the name of their insurance provider.
As far a Bodyshop Magazine is aware, the survey did not question respondents about whether they knew to call their preferred bodyshop first, before their insurer.
Beyond this, 61% of insured UK drivers — amounting to nearly 32 million motorists — didn’t know their insurer’s contact details.
Roadside assistance issues
A further 1-in-10 drivers also didn’t know who their breakdown assistance provider was, while 41% didn’t have their contact details to hand. Again, this rate was highest among young drivers, with half of those (51%) between the age of 17 and 24 lacking essential contact details before getting behind the wheel.
Furthermore, 20% of motorists were uncertain about what steps to take or who to contact following their vehicle getting written-off, meaning that a significant portion of drivers could face added stress and confusion during an already difficult situation.
The data also highlighted that more female drivers report feeling unsure about the process (25% of women said they were not sure what they would need to do, versus 17% of men).
David Kottaun, operations manager at Scrap Car Comparison, said of the data and lack of knowledge about what to do after an accident:
“Taking a look at this unique data to get a better understanding of how well British drivers are prepared in the event of a car accident has uncovered some very interesting trends. It’s quite staggering to see that over three million motorists aren’t confident when it comes to dealing with the aftermath of an accident, and many don’t know who they are insured with, or who will be able to help them in the event of a breakdown.
“This highlights the need for greater education for drivers, especially at the learner driver stage of becoming a road user. A little preparation can go a long way and hopefully make an already stressful situation more manageable”.
For further information, visit the Scrap Car Comparison website.
