Whether you are directly involved in a collision or simply witness one, knowing what to do after a traffic accident in Hong Kong is essential. Your actions affect safety, legal compliance, and potential criminal and civil liability. This guide explains the essential steps in clear, practical terms.
1. Prioritise Safety Above All Else
Accidents can escalate quickly if drivers panic or act abruptly.
- Slow down and park at a safe distance.
- Turn on hazard lights to alert approaching vehicles.
- Assess the situation before stepping out of your car.
- Avoid sudden movements that may cause secondary accidents.
If the accident site is dangerous (e.g., blind corner, poor visibility), warn other road users where safe to do so.
2. Stop and Provide Particulars — A Legal Duty
Under section 56 of the Road Traffic Ordinance (Cap. 374), if an accident occurs owing to the presence of a vehicle on a road and causes:
- injury to a person
- damage to another vehicle
- damage to an animal
- damage to property
you must stop.
If requested by a police officer or a person with reasonable grounds, you must provide:
- your name and address
- the vehicle owner’s name and address
- vehicle registration marks
- details sufficient for identification
Failing to stop or provide particulars is a criminal offence and may lead to prosecution.
3. Call the Police Immediately
Under Hong Kong law, any accident involving personal injury must be reported without delay.
Call 999 and provide:
- exact location
- number of vehicles involved
- number of injured persons
- any hazards (e.g., fuel leakage, blocked roads)
Even if you are just a witness, your account may become crucial evidence.
4. Provide Assistance — Only If Safe
While waiting for emergency services:
- Offer first aid only if you are trained.
- Do not move injured persons unless absolutely necessary (risk of fire or explosion).
- Keep them calm and reassure them that help is coming.
5. Preserve the Accident Scene
Proper documentation supports police investigations and insurance claims.
You should record:
- photos of vehicle positions, damage, skid marks, debris
- weather conditions (rain, fog, glare)
- time and date
- names and contacts of witnesses
Avoid removing vehicles unless instructed by police, unless they are creating a serious road hazard.
6. Exchange Essential Information
If you are involved in the accident, exchange:
- names and phone numbers
- residential addresses
- vehicle registration numbers
- insurance company details
If the other party refuses to cooperate, notify the police immediately.
7. Inform Your Insurer Promptly
Under Hong Kong law, all vehicles must carry third-party risk insurance.
Most insurance policies require you to:
- report an accident as soon as possible
- provide photos, details, and documents
- forward any summonses or legal notices immediately
Failing to report promptly may affect your coverage.
8. Be Aware of Potential Legal Charges
Depending on the circumstances, the police may investigate you (or another driver) for:
Careless Driving
Failing to meet the standard of a competent and careful driver.
Penalties: fines, driving disqualification.
Dangerous Driving
Driving far below the expected standard and posing obvious danger.
Penalties: imprisonment, heavy fines, disqualification.
Driving Under the Influence
Exceeding prescribed alcohol or drug limits.
Penalties: imprisonment, fines, mandatory disqualification.
Your cooperation and accurate statements can influence how the case is assessed.
9. Cooperate Fully with Law Enforcement
When giving a police statement:
- Be factual, not speculative
- Stay calm and consistent
- Provide documents upon request
- Ask for clarification if you don’t understand a question
Credibility matters in both criminal and civil proceedings.
Key Takeaways
- Stop, stay safe, and call the police — these are both legal obligations and moral duties.
- Exchange accurate details and preserve evidence.
- Notify your insurer promptly.
- Cooperate with investigators and emergency responders.
- Proper documentation can protect you from disputes or false allegations.
