Last reviewed: October 2026. The first minutes after a road accident are primarily about safety and medical care. After that, accurate evidence can become extremely important. The Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203), insurance arrangements, police investigation and civil or criminal proceedings may all become relevant depending on what happened.
1. Safety comes first
Move to safety where it can lawfully and safely be done, seek emergency medical assistance for injuries and avoid creating another traffic hazard. Serious injuries should be treated before legal paperwork.
2. Make sure the incident is properly reported
The police record can become an important source of evidence. Record the police station, complaint or entry reference where available, and keep copies or extracts that you are entitled to obtain. The Sri Lanka Police states that a member of the public can request an acknowledgment of a complaint.
3. Photograph the scene
- Vehicle positions before they are moved, where safe.
- Damage from several angles.
- Road markings, signs and traffic lights.
- Skid marks or debris where relevant.
- Visible injuries.
- Number plates and relevant vehicle details.
- Nearby CCTV cameras or businesses.
Do not put yourself in danger simply to obtain a photograph. Safety and medical care come first.
4. Collect witness details
Independent witnesses can be important. Obtain names and contact information where possible. If a person says they saw the collision, note what they actually observed rather than trying to coach them about who was at fault.
5. Medical records are legal evidence too
Keep hospital records, prescriptions, diagnostic reports, medical bills and records of follow-up treatment. If an injury causes continuing disability or loss of income, keep employment and income evidence as well.
6. Notify the insurer promptly
Insurance policies contain their own notification and claim requirements. Notify the relevant insurer in accordance with the policy and preserve the documents supplied by the insurer. Do not make assumptions about coverage merely because a vehicle is insured; the policy wording and circumstances matter.
7. Hit-and-run cases require particular care
If another vehicle leaves the scene, record as much identifying information as safely possible and promptly report the matter. Witnesses, CCTV, photographs and vehicle fragments can become important evidence.
8. The Motor Traffic Act is only part of the legal picture
The Motor Traffic Act regulates road traffic and contains offences and procedures relating to vehicles and drivers. Depending on the facts, other criminal laws, insurance law and civil principles may also become relevant.
9. A simple accident file
- Police complaint/reference.
- Driver and vehicle details.
- Insurance information.
- Photographs and video.
- Witness contacts.
- Medical records.
- Repair estimates and invoices.
- Proof of income or other financial loss where relevant.
- All correspondence with insurers and other parties.
10. Official sources
Parliament — Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203)
Sri Lanka Police — Public Complaints
Parliament continues to publish and approve regulations made under the Motor Traffic Act, so readers should check current regulations for issues such as licensing, road safety and vehicle requirements.
FAQ
Should I admit fault at the scene?
Give accurate information to the police and other relevant authorities. Avoid making speculative statements about legal liability before the facts are established.
What if the other driver offers cash immediately?
Do not assume that an informal payment resolves every possible injury, property or legal issue. Serious cases should be handled with proper documentation and appropriate advice.
HICONT note: Accident liability depends on evidence and circumstances. This guide is educational and is not a substitute for legal advice on a particular accident.