Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC Research on Post Collision Behaviour 

• Only 1 in 4 (25%) of drivers say they are ‘very confident’ they would know the correct steps to take if involved in a collision
• More than 4 in 10 (42%) say they have delayed or avoided making a claim for minor damage due to cost concerns
• Only 4% say a collision had no lasting impact on their driving, with 19% saying they now leave more space between vehicles
• Following a collision, 19% of drivers say they are more alert to potential hazards, while 15% check their mirrors more often and 14% drive more slowly

Just one in four drivers (25%) say they are very confident they would know what to do if they were involved in a collision, according to new research* from Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC (Aviva).

For many drivers, being involved in a collision appears to change how they drive afterwards.

For some drivers, this uncertainty can also affect what they do next.

More than four in ten (42%) say they have delayed or avoided making a claim for minor damage, such as scratches or small bumps, due to concerns about cost.

This suggests that some drivers may be unsure about how the claims process works or what impact a claim could have on their policy. Clear, trusted guidance from a broker can help drivers make more informed decisions – not only at the point of a claim, but by helping them understand the process in advance and what to expect.

Knowing what steps to take, and having the right support when making a claim, can make a difficult situation much easier to manage. While insurers typically provide guidance after an incident, understanding the steps in advance, and how insurers and brokers support customers, can help drivers feel more prepared and confident.

What to do after a collision
Aviva advises several practical steps that can help drivers stay safe and feel confident about what to do next:

• Stop safely and make the scene safe, using hazard lights where needed
• Check for injuries and call emergency services if anyone needs help
• Exchange key details with other drivers, including contact and insurance information
• Note important details such as the time, location, road conditions and any damage
• Take photos of the scene and vehicles involved, which can support any follow-up or claims process
• Contact An Garda Síochána where needed, especially if there are injuries or details that cannot be exchanged
• Notify your insurer or financial broker as soon as possible – they can guide you on next steps, with brokers also able to help you understand the process and your options

Commenting on the findings, Alan Behan, Product and Underwriting Manager at Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC said: “This research highlights how important it is for drivers to feel confident about what to do after a collision. Even minor incidents can be stressful, and knowing the right steps, from making sure everyone is safe to gathering the right information, can help drivers feel more in control.

At Aviva, we’re focused on providing clear, practical support if a customer needs to make a claim, so they feel informed, reassured and confident what to do next’’.

For more information, visit aviva.ie.

*according to research of 1,000 drivers in Ireland conducted by 3Gem Research & Insights on behalf of Aviva, 2026
**according to Road Safety Authority (RSA) 2025 data, as reported here.

About Aviva 
·      Aviva is the UK’s leading diversified insurer and operates in the UK, Ireland and Canada. Aviva also has international investments in India and China.
·     Aviva in Ireland provides Insurance (general and life), Wealth (pensions, savings and investments), and Retirement solutions to almost 950,000 customers.