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Driver strikes truck which departs scene. Did he comply with all legal requirements?

by Murdo Maguire — last modified 2007-01-19 07:42

I bumped a truck causing no discernible damage to it but I did cause minor damage to my car. I stopped about 15 or 16 yards up the road where it was safe to pull in. I could see that the driver of the other vehicle was in the left turn awaiting to get onto the major road. I couldn't see any damage to his vehicle. As my mobility is not that good my wife got out of the car and went back to the scene. The driver of the other vehicle did not get out or even stop. He just continued his journey. My wife did not get his number and noticed no damage to his vehicle. I am satisfied that it was my fault. I have reported it to my insurance company who are dealing with it. As we can't get the police to deal with much around here, should I report it to them? As I am concerned I think I have complied with the RTA. Is that so? Your comments please.

If there is an accident you are required to stop at the scene for a reasonable time which clearly you did.

The police are not notified of many accidents and there is no obligation to report them unless there have been injuries or if damage is caused to the other vehicle and information has not been exchanged at the scene [section 170(1)(b) of the Road Traffic Act 1988].

Furthermore, many trucks fail to stop after being involved in accidents even if the truck driver was to blame, often because he was unaware of the accident taking place.  It is quite likely that there was no discernible damage as trucks are sturdily built and are frequently involved in minor scrapes, so you should not worry too much, particularly as you have notified your insurers.

In that regard however, (assuming you are not claiming for any damage on your vehicle) you should confirm to them in writing that the notification was "for information only" and you do not anticipate any claim being made against you.  This may ensure that your no-claims history is unaffected by the accident.

You seem to have complied with all legal requirements in every way.

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