Fast Steps to Take After a Road Accident: Legal Rights in Lagos
A road accident can be frightening and complex but the ability to figure out what to do in the first hours afterward can protect your health, your finance, and your legal rights. In this article, we will show you Lagos-specific steps plus the legal principles that back them up. Ensure you stay put to carefully read through.
1. Stop, secure the area, and check for injuries
The Lagos Road Traffic Law and national road safety rules has advised drivers involved in an accident to always stop and give help where needed. What you need to firstly do is move to a safe and serene environment (if the vehicle can be driven), put on hazard lights, and check/examine yourself and passengers in case of any injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt call emergency services immediately. Staying at the scene is also a legal requirement when there is injury or serious property damage.
2. Call the attention of the police and (if needed) FRSC
Report the accident to the nearest Nigeria Police Force (NPF) station or call FRSC for serious crashes. A formal police report or “PEN” (Police Event Note) is an important legal document for insurance claims and any later court action — many insurers require a police report before processing third-party claims. Lagos police and the Federal Road Safety Corps are the statutory agencies that handle crash reporting and on-scene investigations.
3. Write or record everything that happened
Take photographs and short videos of the scene (vehicle positions, damage, skid marks, road signs, traffic lights, nearby CCTV). Capture the other driver’s name, phone number, vehicle registration, insurance company and policy number, and the contact details of any witnesses. Note the exact time, date, location (landmarks), and weather or road conditions. This evidence is crucial for both insurance and any legal claims under the Motor Vehicles (Third-Party Insurance) Act.
4. Exchange information — don’t admit fault
Exchange documents with other parties: driver’s licence, vehicle registration, and insurance certificate. Do not sign statements admitting fault at the scene — a short factual account is fine, but admissions can be used against you later. If an insurance adjuster or official asks for a written statement, ask to consult your insurer or lawyer first.
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5. Notify your insurer promptly
Tell your insurer as soon as possible (many policies require notification within 24–72 hours). For third-party insurance claims the insurer will often manage legal defence and compensation payments if you’re sued; for your own damage, comprehensive policies will guide repair or settlement. Keep written records of all communications and claim reference numbers.
6. Get medical attention and keep records
Even if you feel okay, see a doctor — some injuries (e.g., whiplash) show later. Medical reports, bills, and referrals are primary evidence for personal injury claims and for claiming medical costs from an at-fault driver’s insurer. FRSC post-crash care guidelines emphasize timely medical attention to reduce worsening injuries.
7. If stopped by officers, know your rights
FRSC and police officers can inspect documents and issue directives. You may politely request an officer’s name/rank and note their ID number. If you disagree with a fine or seizure, you can contest it in court; avoid hostility at the scene and record the interaction.
8. When to hire a lawyer
Engage a lawyer if there are serious injuries, disputed liability, or complex insurance refusals. A lawyer can preserve evidence, advise on statute-of-limitations, present settlement offers, and—if necessary—file suit. Time limits apply for claims, so act promptly.
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