After an accident: the first five things to do

This is general information, not legal advice. For the official rules, see the NSW Government guide to road crashes (opens in a new tab).

1. Stop and make it safe

You must always stop after a crash and give as much help as you can. Turn off your ignition to reduce the risk of fire and turn on your hazard lights. If it is safe, clear debris or broken glass that could cause another crash.

2. Call 000 if anyone is hurt

If anyone is injured or killed, call an ambulance and then the police on triple zero (000). You do not need police at the scene if there are no injuries and no vehicles need towing.

3. Exchange details

You must give the other people involved your name and address, your vehicle registration number, and the owner's name and address if you are not the owner.

It also helps to note the other driver's phone number and insurer. Stick to the facts, and avoid saying whose fault it was, as this may affect your claim.

4. Record the scene

If it is safe, photograph the damage to every vehicle, the number plates, the road and any signs or signals. Write down the time, place and the details of any witnesses while it is fresh. These notes make your claim much easier.

5. Report it, arrange a tow and call your insurer

If police do not attend, you must report the crash as soon as possible, within 24 hours, if a vehicle is towed, property is damaged or animals are injured, or if you could not give your details to the other driver. Report it at a police station or to the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.

If your car cannot be driven, you have the right to decide who tows it and where it goes. Authorised tow trucks have a number plate with four numbers ending in TT, and you must sign a Towing Authorisation Form before the tow.

Then call your insurer and lodge your claim. If you have a preference, ask about choice of repairer at that point.

Need a hand?

Call us on (02) 9439 4414 and we can arrange a tilt tray to bring your car to our Artarmon workshop. Our guide to how an insurance repair works covers what happens next.