USAFE-AFAFRICAI51-401 — Traffic Accident Reporting And Claims Procedures In The United Kingdom

USAFE-AFAFRICAI51-401 governs traffic accident reporting and claims procedures for service vehicles in the United Kingdom.

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  • Publication number: USAFE-AFAFRICAI51-401
  • Title: TRAFFIC ACCIDENT REPORTING AND CLAIMS PROCEDURES IN THE UNITED KINGDOM
  • Date: 2019-05-08

View USAFE-AFAFRICAI51-401 on armypubs.army.mil


It defines traffic accidents, service vehicles, service drivers, third parties, and reporting officers. It requires accident reports, supporting documents, notifications, legal transmittals, and records handling.

Applies to: This instruction is applicable to all elements of the US Force, permanently stationed or on temporary duty (TDY) in the UK.

Topics covered

  • Traffic accident definitions
  • Service vehicle accidents
  • Accident reporting deadlines
  • Fatal accidents and inquests
  • Police proceedings
  • Legal proceedings
  • Guardian ad litem certificates

Questions and answers

How soon must a service vehicle traffic accident be reported?

Every traffic accident in which a service vehicle is involved is to be reported to the appropriate offices (set forth below) within 72 hours of its occurrence. (paragraph 2)

What vehicles count as service vehicles under USAFE-AFAFRICAI51-401?

Any vehicle owned and maintained or utilized (including hired and MOD vehicles) by a US force, a non-appropriated fund activity, Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES), or any Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) activity or the MOD, when the driver was acting on behalf of the US Government or the MOD. (paragraph 1)

How must an off-installation accident be reported to police?

In case of any accident occurring off of the military installation, the driver will report the accident at a police station or to a constable as soon as reasonably practicable and, in any case, within seventy-two hours of the accident.

What must the reporting officer do if the service driver cannot comply?

The reporting officer will: (T-0) 4.1. Report the accident to the police station nearest the duty station.

How quickly must legal documents related to a reportable accident be forwarded?

Any High Court writ, County Court summons or subpoena served upon service personnel, members of the civilian component, or Crown employees acting on behalf of the US, in connection with an accident reportable under this instruction, will be forwarded by letter of transmittal (Attachment 3) to the MOD, with a copy to the base legal office and USAFE-AFAFRICA/UK/JA within 24 hours of its service. (paragraph 6)

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