What is the best procedure if you are involved in an RTA and the police cannot attend?

I was involved in an accident with a driver who smelt of alcohol and refused to exchange details. I contacted the olice who said they had nobody who could attend at that moment and I should insist on the other party giving details. When they refused, I called the police back. I was told to take photos of the incident and driver and make an online report. When I started taking photos, the other party became aggressive and tried to walk off. At that point a passing police car stopped and dealt with the matter.

Had the police not arrived the situation could have become difficult. My question is, what should a person do in these circumstances?

Asked on 2 November 2023 by Andrew Hill

Answered by David Ross
Being involved in accident can be a traumatic experience, and the first priority should be to ensure the safety of you and the occupants of your vehicle. If a driver refuses to exchange details, become aggressive or attempts to leave the scene, it is important to gather as much evidence as possible at the scene without putting yourself at further risk. Take photographs and video if possible, secure any dashcam footage you or other drivers may have, and also try to get the details of any independent witnesses at the scene who would be able to corroborate your version of events.

As much as it is important to avoid being the victim of a hit-and-run incident, not putting yourself at further risk of harm should be the priority.
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