Contents
What should I do after a car accident in Dundee?
1. Check safety and call emergency services if needed
Prioritise safety - move to a safe location if possible and call 999 if anyone is injured.
2. Exchange details with other drivers
Name, address, insurance details, vehicle registration. Take photos of insurance certificates.
3. Report to police if required
Legally required if injury occurred or other party leaves without sharing details. Police Scotland: 101.
4. Gather evidence
Photograph damage, road layout, traffic signs, weather conditions. Get witness contact details.
5. Seek medical advice
Visit Ninewells Hospital A&E or your GP even if injuries seem minor. Keep all medical records.
Who is usually at fault in car accidents?
Rear-end collisions
Usually the following driver is at fault. Common in heavy traffic on the Kingsway.
Junction accidents
Liability depends on right of way and traffic signals. Dundee's city centre junctions can be complex.
Roundabout incidents
Driver already on the roundabout usually has priority. Signalling and lane discipline are key.
Bridge approaches
The Tay Road Bridge approach and toll area see frequent incidents due to merging traffic and speed changes.
University area traffic
High pedestrian activity around Dundee University creates risks for drivers and pedestrians alike.
What evidence helps my claim?
- Dashcam footage: Essential evidence showing exactly what happened.
- Police reference: Incident number and any reports from Police Scotland.
- Witness statements: Independent witnesses carry significant weight.
- Medical reports: Ninewells Hospital records, GP notes, specialist reports.
- Photographs: Vehicle damage, road conditions, signage.
- CCTV: City centre cameras, business premises - request quickly.
- Financial records: Receipts for repairs, medical costs, lost earnings.
Time limits for car accident claims
In Scotland, you have 3 years from the date of accident to start court proceedings.
Exceptions:
- Children: 3 years from their 16th birthday
- Delayed injury discovery: Time may run from when injury was discovered
Don't delay: Evidence deteriorates quickly. Start your claim as soon as possible.
Dundee accident hotspots
- Kingsway (A90): Dual carriageway ring road with multiple junctions and high traffic volume.
- Tay Road Bridge: Approach roads and toll area see frequent incidents.
- Riverside Drive: Waterfront route with pedestrians and cyclists.
- Lochee Road: Busy arterial route with heavy traffic.
- Perth Road: University area with high pedestrian activity.
- City Centre: One-way systems, bus routes, and parking manoeuvres.
- Forfar Road: Major route north with multiple roundabouts.
- Arbroath Road: Eastern approach with retail parks and junctions.
What compensation can I claim?
General damages
Compensation for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity. No fixed whiplash tariffs in Scotland.
Special damages
Financial losses: medical costs, travel, vehicle damage, lost earnings.
Future losses
Ongoing care, future earnings loss if injury affects work capacity.