What action is mandatory for a driver in the event of a collision causing significant damage?

In the event of a collision that results in significant damage, it is mandated by traffic regulations for the driver to report the incident to the police. This is essential for several reasons: first, it helps to ensure that an official record of the accident is created, which can be crucial for insurance claims and any potential legal proceedings. Second, reporting to the police allows law enforcement to assess the situation, which can aid in determining liability or any violations of traffic laws that may have occurred during the accident. The police can also provide assistance on-site, including directing traffic if necessary and helping to document the scene.

The other choices do not fulfill the legal requirements or provide the necessary protocol for handling such situations. Leaving the vehicle and walking home is not advisable and could lead to further complications. While exchanging contact information is a good practice and often required, it alone does not meet the mandatory reporting criteria. Assessing the damage and simply driving away overlooks the legal obligation to report the incident to authorities, which could result in penalties or additional consequences later on.