Step-by-step guide on what to do after a car accident

Key points

• Prioritise safety and call emergency services if anyone is injured.
• Collect detailed accident info, including photos, details of the other driver, and witness contacts.
• Report the accident and contact your insurer promptly for claims.

Being involved in a car accident is one of the most distressing situations a person can experience. It can happen to anyone, no matter how experienced we are behind the wheel.

While we hope you never face such a situation, it's important to know the right steps to take if it happens. This article can guide you on what to do after a car accident, to help you feel prepared and confident in handling the aftermath.

Immediate steps to take after a car accident

In the moments following a collision, you may find yourself reeling and unsure of what to do. First, take a few deep breaths to calm down. And then, here’s what you need to do next:

• Ensure safety first: In any car accident, your priority is to check that everyone is okay. If someone is injured, call 000 and don’t move them unless they’re in immediate danger. If the accident creates a dangerous situation, for example, if it happened at a railway crossing, move everyone to safety if it is safe to do so. If you can, move your car off the road to help prevent further accidents. Put your hazard lights on to alert other drivers, and clear any large debris from the road, if safe to do so.
• Collect details of the accident: It’s important to take down as much information as possible. Make sure to note down details from all parties involved, including:
  1. Details of the other driver such as their name, residential address, driver’s licence number, vehicle registration number, insurance information and contact details
  2. Description of the accident
  3. Photos of the accident (particularly of any damage to any vehicles involved)
  4. Time and date of the accident
  5. Names and details of witnesses (including their contact details)
  6. Police report number (if any)
• Report the accident: You should make a police report if there are any injuries, if the other driver fails to stop or provide their details, or if the accident causes significant property damage. Report to the police within 24 hours and obtain the incident number for your car insurance claim.
• Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, you should seek medical attention following a car accident. Some injuries aren’t immediately obvious, so take extra care and get checked. You should also retain your medical records if you need them at a later date.

Lodging a car accident claim

You should lodge a car insurance claim as soon as possible after the accident. The process may be unfamiliar, but it doesn’t have to be daunting: keep these key points in mind to make the process go smoothly.

Contacting your insurer

Get in touch with your insurance company to make your claim. Typically, you’ll need to provide them with:

• Your details
• The details you’ve taken from the accident

Refer to the list of details you’ve taken from the accident, including the other driver’s details, description and photos of the accident, the time and date of the accident, any witnesses’ details and police report (if you filed one).

Don’t stress if you can’t remember everything. Your insurance company should be able to guide you through the steps and inform you of any documentation required for your car accident claim.

Car repairs and insurance assessments

When your insurer takes the details of your accident, they will likely arrange for an assessment of the damages to your vehicle.

If you can still drive your car, your insurer may be able to recommend a smash repairer. Alternatively, and depending on your cover, you may want to nominate a repairer of your choice.

If your car can’t be driven safely, your insurer can also help you organise a tow truck. Your car will be taken to a repairer where a report will be done on the repairs needed and your claim can get underway.

Understanding your car insurance coverage

What your insurance policy covers can shape how smoothly things go after an accident. Different policies offer varying levels of coverage, and knowing the coverage type will help you navigate the claims process much more effectively.

Here’s a quick overview of the types of ANZ car insurance provided by our insurance partner CGU:

Comprehensive

Cover for accidental damage to your own vehicle as well as for another person's car or property where you're at fault.

Third party fire and theft

Cover for loss or damage to another person's car or property in an accident where you're at fault. Cover also includes loss or damage to your vehicle as a result of fire or theft.

Third party property damage

Cover for loss or damage to someone else’s car or property in an accident where you're at fault.

You can tailor your car insurance policy to meet your individual needs – just make sure it has the right coverage for your circumstances. The last thing you need in the event of an accident is to find out you’re not covered because you didn’t have a suitable policy, or you didn’t keep it up to date.

You should consider contacting your insurer as soon as any of these details change:

• The value of your car – has it gone up or down in value? In the event of an accident that results in a total loss, you may not get an adequate amount back.
• How you use your car – is your vehicle for private use only, or have you started using the vehicle for business, such as ridesharing, food delivery or a trade? If you do not update your insurer about any change to the way you use your car, you may not be covered.
• Additional drivers – if you share your car with someone else, you should update your policy to list them as a driver, as it may impact the excess you need to pay if you don’t.

If you’re unsure, it doesn’t hurt to put these questions to your insurer. This way, you can be sure of what your insurance policy entitles you to.

Does it matter who's at fault?

Figuring out who's at fault in a car accident can affect your claim and insurance premiums. In Australia, it depends on the circumstances of the accident and the evidence provided.

If you're at fault, your insurance might cover the other party's damages, but you’ll likely be responsible for your own repairs unless you have comprehensive coverage. If the other party is at fault, their insurance should cover your damages.

Preventing future car accidents

To help reduce the risk of future car accidents, here are some precautions you can take:

• Be alert: Avoid distractions – don’t use your phone or eat while driving. Keep your eyes on the road and always be aware of your surroundings.
• Follow traffic rules: Adhering to speed limits, traffic and road signs can significantly reduce the likelihood of an accident.
• Take care of your car: Check your brakes, tyres, car battery and lights regularly. Regular maintenance can help prevent failures that could lead to accidents.
• Drive defensively: Anticipate the actions of other drivers and be ready for unexpected situations. Keep a safe distance between your car and others and avoid aggressive driving habits.

Learn more about how you can play your part and stay safe on Australia's roads.