What To Do Immediately After a Road Accident in Kenya

Getting into a road accident is a jarring experience. In the chaos of the moment, it’s easy to panic, but staying calm and knowing the right steps can protect your health, your rights, and your finances. Kenya’s roads are busy, and accidents happen—here’s exactly what you need to do immediately after one.

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

Your immediate priority is safety. If you can, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers. If the accident is minor and cars are drivable, get them off the main carriageway.

Do not get out of your car if you’re in a dangerous spot—like a high-speed highway or a sharp bend. Wait for help if it’s safer to stay inside. If someone is injured, call for emergency medical services immediately. In Kenya, dial 911 or 112 from any mobile network.

Step 2: Check for Injuries

Before anything else, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Even a small bump could be serious. If anyone is hurt, do not move them unless they are in immediate danger (like a car fire). Moving an injured person can worsen spinal injuries.

Call an ambulance (SOS Kenya: 0720-529-529 or AAR: 0720-251-251) if needed. Do not drive an injured person yourself unless the ambulance is delayed; you risk causing more harm.

Step 3: Call the Police

In Kenya, you must report any accident to the police, especially if there are injuries or significant vehicle damage. Dial 112 or 999 and ask for the nearest police station. Give them your location clearly—use landmarks, road names, or Google Maps coordinates if possible.

The police will send an officer to the scene. Do not leave before they arrive. Even if the accident seems minor, a police report is critical for insurance claims.

Why this matters: Without a police abstract (a formal report from the police), most Kenyan insurance companies will reject your claim.

Step 4: Exchange Information with the Other Driver

Once the scene is safe, exchange details with the other driver. Get:

• Full name and phone number
• Vehicle registration number
• Insurance company and policy number
• Driving license number
• Make, model, and color of their car

Be polite but firm. Do not admit fault or apologize—this can be used against you later. Just exchange information and note down the details.

Step 5: Document the Scene Thoroughly

In Kenya, evidence is your best friend. Use your phone to take clear photos and videos:

• Wide shots of the entire scene from different angles
• Close-ups of damage to both vehicles
• Skid marks and road conditions
• Number plates of all involved cars
• Any injuries (from a distance, respecting privacy)
• Nearby landmarks or street signs

Take videos showing the traffic flow and the position of cars. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers. A witness statement can be a game-changer in disputes.

Step 6: Move Vehicles Only After Recording

If the accident is blocking traffic, move your cars to the side after taking all photos. If you move them before documenting, the police or insurance may assume the accident happened differently. Wait for the police arrival if possible.

Step 7: Get a Medical Check-Up

Even if you feel fine, see a doctor within 24 hours. Adrenaline can mask pain, and injuries like whiplash or internal bleeding may not show up immediately. A doctor’s report strengthens your insurance claim and protects your health.

Visit any government hospital or a private clinic. Ask for a medical report specifying any injuries or trauma.

Step 8: Report to Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance company within 24 hours. Most Kenyan insurers have a 24/7 claims hotline. Provide them:

• The police station and officer in charge
• The accident location and time
• The other driver’s details
• Your policy number

They will guide you on the next steps, including repairs and payout timelines. Do not repair your car before they inspect it—this voids your claim.

Step 9: Get the Police Abstract

You must visit the police station where the accident was reported to get a police abstract. This document is essential for insurance claims. It usually costs Ksh 1,000–2,000 and takes a few days to process.

Without it, your claim will be rejected. Make sure you collect it within 14 days.

Step 10: Take Care of Your Mental Health

Being in an accident is traumatic. After the immediate steps, allow yourself time to process. Talk to someone you trust. If you experience anxiety or nightmares, consider seeing a counselor. Your mental well-being matters as much as your physical health.

A Quick Checklist for Your Glovebox

Keep this list in your car:

• Emergency contacts (ambulance, police, insurance)
• Camera (phone is fine)
• Notebook and pen for witness details
• High-visibility vest and hazard triangle
• First-aid kit

Final thought: In Kenya, a road accident doesn’t have to ruin your day. Stay calm, follow these steps, and protect yourself legally and medically. Preparedness is your best defense.