[Car Knowledge] Response Process and Precautions after a Car Accident

As a Hong Kong car editor, the biggest fear I see car owners has to be "What should I do if I get into a car accident?" Many panic, unsure how to call the police, take photos, handle insurance, or even end up paying someone for it. Hong Kong's car accident handling procedures are clearly defined, and by following them, you can handle them effectively and protect your rights, whether you're a novice or an experienced driver. This article will provide a detailed , step-by-step guide to the latest Hong Kong car accident procedures for 2025, including precautions, legal requirements, and insurance. We'll also share our real-life experiences, so you won't be so careless when things get tough!

1. Five principles for handling traffic accidents in Hong Kong

  1. Safety first
    • Protecting human lives and on-site safety is paramount
  2. Evidence is king
    • Take photos, record videos, and keep records to protect yourself
  3. Legal and Compliance
    • Handle according to Hong Kong laws to avoid breaking the law or being misled
  4. Respond calmly
    • Don't argue, don't settle privately, deal with the situation first and then talk about the follow-up
  5. Immediately notify the insurance company
    • Protect future claims and avoid insurance invalidation

II. Detailed steps for responding to a traffic accident (applicable in Hong Kong)

1. Stop immediately to ensure safety

  • Stop the vehicle immediately and turn on the double yellow hazard lights.
  • If you are in a tunnel, highway or main road, try to move your vehicle to a safe location (if possible).
  • Pay attention to oncoming vehicles before getting off the vehicle to avoid secondary accidents.

2. Check the injured and call the police/ambulance depending on the situation

  • Prioritize human life! If anyone is injured, fainting, or bleeding, call the police (999) or an ambulance immediately.
  • Never move a seriously injured person (unless there is a life-threatening situation).
  • It is also recommended to notify the police even if the collision is minor and no one is injured, to facilitate future insurance.

3. Preserve photos and videos of the scene and evidence collection

  • Do not move the vehicle (if no one is injured/traffic is not obstructed) and wait for the police to arrive and record the incident.
  • Use mobile phone/car cam to record low:
    • Vehicle location, damaged parts, other party’s license plate, on-site road conditions, landmarks, ground skid marks, traffic lights, weather conditions, etc.
  • Try to take pictures from all angles and multiple angles, and include the time displayed on the watch/mobile phone screen.

4. Exchange of information

  • Exchange with the other party:
    • Driver's license information (take a photo for record)
    • Vehicle registration certificate (commonly known as "big plate")
    • Insurance policy information
    • Contact Number
  • If there are any witnesses, please record their contact information (for testimony if necessary).

5. Call the police (depending on the situation)

In what situations must you call the police ?

  • Someone is injured (minor or serious)
  • There is damage to third-party property (such as hitting roadside railings, buildings, etc.)
  • The other party refuses to exchange information or escapes with malicious intent
  • Suspect the other party of drunk driving/unlicensed/uninsured/drug-driving

If it's a minor collision and no one is injured, can I not call the police?

  • The law allows both parties to voluntarily settle the matter privately (i.e. "settlement privately"), but it is still recommended to call the police or at least report it to the insurance company to prevent subsequent disputes.
  • Without a formal police report, the risk of insurance claims is higher.

6. Notify the insurance company and submit documents

  • Notify your insurance company within 24 hours at the latest (some companies require a shorter time), even if you do not plan to file a claim immediately.
  • Required documents to be submitted :
    • Police report (if any)
    • Photos/videos of the accident scene
    • Contact information of both parties and vehicle information
    • Car Cam footage (if any)
  • Failure to report may result in loss of insurance compensation rights!

7. Repair and insurance claim

  • Wait for the insurance company/underwriter to inspect the vehicle before repairing it. Do not repair it yourself immediately.
  • The insurance company will decide whether to compensate based on the allocation of liability and the extent of the damage.
  • If personal injury or substantial property damage is involved, legal assistance may be required.

3. Things to note when dealing with "private settlement"

  • There is no legal protection for private settlement , and it will be very troublesome if the other party demands repayment/repents later.
  • Be sure to record it in writing (signed by both parties/list the date, location, responsibility, and amount of compensation), and it is best to have a third party witness it.
  • Shadow cash/transfer receipts.
  • Some insurance companies may still refuse to pay compensation after a "private settlement". You do so at your own risk.

4. How to deal with a hit and run accident

  • Immediately record the license plate, color, and model of the fleeing vehicle.
  • Call the police as soon as possible and provide car cam footage and on-site evidence.
  • Witness contact information is very important.
  • Notify the insurance company that some insurance policies for "unknown vehicles" may have special compensation mechanisms.

5. FAQs on common legal and insurance issues after a car accident in Hong Kong

Q1: Do I have to call the police if I have a car accident?

A: You must call the police if there are injuries, property damage, the other party refuses to share information, or if you suspect drunk driving. Minor collisions can be avoided by mutual agreement, but it is recommended that you notify the insurance company.

Q2: What should I do if I hit a roadside facility (railing/lamppost)?

A: You must call the police . Otherwise, you could be charged with abandoning the vehicle. The police will file a report, and the government or management company will pursue compensation from you or your insurance company.

Q3: What happens if the other party has no insurance/runs away?

A: Call the police immediately. Insurance companies sometimes provide coverage for "unidentified vehicles," but the claim process is more complicated.

Q4: When can I get my car back after a car accident?

A: The police will give instructions. Usually, the vehicle can leave on its own or be towed after completing the on-site record and taking photos.

Q5: How long does it take to make an insurance claim?

A: Generally 1-2 months (depending on the complexity of the case). It may take longer if there are personal injuries or multiple vehicle accidents.

6. Editor’s Real Experience & Tips

  1. Photography is the most important thing : don't be afraid of it, taking videos + taking photos of the car body, signs, and the scene from multiple angles will always be helpful.
  2. Have a calm conversation : No matter how agitated the other person is, don't argue. Stay polite and don't make gestures of "admitting your mistakes" or "signing your name to take responsibility."
  3. Report everything to the insurance company : Even if they say "it's just a small matter, don't report it," you still need to protect yourself.
  4. Real-time recording of details : such as weather, road surface, other party's appearance, and on-site road signs.
  5. Use mobile apps for assistance : such as "Hong Kong Police Report", "Drivvo" to record accidents, and "Insurance Company App" to upload information instantly.
  6. Back up car cam clips regularly : Many car cams automatically overwrite, so remember to manually save important clips.
  7. Don't move your car randomly : unless it is necessary (obstructing traffic/dangerous), wait for the police to arrive and protect the evidence.

7. Simple Car Accident Response Checklist (Collectible)

  1. Stop, turn on double yellow lights, and ensure safety
  2. Check if anyone is injured and call the police/ambulance if necessary
  3. Take photos/videos from multiple angles on site and save car cam photos
  4. Exchange information between the two parties and record contact between witnesses
  5. Call the police (if necessary/recommended)
  6. Notify the insurance company and submit documents within 24 hours
  7. Waiting for the insurance company to inspect the vehicle/repair
  8. Stay calm throughout the process and do not admit responsibility or pay compensation immediately

8. Subsequent Psychological Adjustment and Support

  • It is inevitable to panic or feel depressed after a car accident. You can seek support from family/friends.
  • If you experience trauma or anxiety, you can consult a mental health hotline/professional counseling.
  • The Hong Kong Automobile Association (HKAA), insurance companies, etc. provide emergency support and consultation.

9. Editor’s Summary

Hong Kong actually has a clear SOP for handling traffic accidents. The most important thing is to remain calm, prioritize safety, prioritize evidence, and comply with legal regulations . All accidents should be photographed, documented, and reported to the police (or at least to the insurance company) immediately. Avoid hasty private settlements to protect your future rights. Every driver should keep this procedure on their phone or in their car to avoid confusion in the event of an accident.
If you have any special legal questions, insurance clause inquiries, or would like to know about actual cases, please leave a message to ask the editor, so that everyone can drive with peace of mind and security! 🚗📝

If you would like to download a "response card" for a car accident scene, a practical comparison of major insurance companies in Hong Kong, or share common claim traps, please feel free to ask the editor!

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