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Learn what to do when you have a car accident in Australia

Jodie Humphries avatar
Jodie Humphries
- 3 min read
Learn what to do when you have a car accident in Australia

A car accident can be a massive shock for you and your family. So it’s a good idea to be informed about the steps you need to take in the immediate aftermath. Firstly, you should notify your family members so that you receive emotional support. You also need to ensure that you are safe and seek appropriate medical help. 

What to do after a car accident?

Your safety is the priority. If it is a minor accident, wait till you are stable and slowly step out of your car. Remember to turn off the ignition and call the police or ambulance for immediate assistance. Try to remain calm and get in touch with your loved ones for crucial guidance and support. The following points may help you to better understand car accident reporting procedure:

Gather information

Across all Australian states, people involved in a car accident need to ensure that they do not leave the scene without exchanging information with the other party involved. You must be aware of the car accident reporting procedure to avoid legal complications later. You need to share your name, phone number, residential address, insurer details, and registration number. If any of the parties involved refuse to share such information, you may report the matter to the police. Details such as the accident site, date, and time might fade from your memory with time, so it’s a good idea to note them down after a car crash for future reference.

Medical help and towing

If you are injured, call for medical help without delay. Remember to keep track of the bills and the treatment process. Are you wondering where to take your car after an accident? After a crash, you need to take it to a service centre. Towing is the best option and, if you are insured, the cost of this will likely be covered. 

Call the insurance provider

Are you wondering how to proceed after a car accident once you’ve dealt with the medical check and towing? The next step is speaking to your insurance provider. It’s best to act quickly when most details are fresh in your memory, and your claim can be processed faster. If there are any witnesses, try to obtain their information and forward the details to your insurance provider. 

Many accidents happen every year, and should you be involved in one of them the other party may try to put the blame on you. Don’t get involved in an argument. It’s best to leave it to the insurance companies to sort out who is at fault.

Compare and understand what the policies offer

Getting appropriate car insurance is essential for your safety and financial security. Remember to compare different insurance policies to understand the most suitable one for you. You need to check what your insurance company is going to cover, from damages and towing to extra expenses. Claiming car insurance after an accident is possible if you can get hold of  the other party’s insurance details. If you are not at fault, a third-party claim can provide compensation for medical expenses and lost wages.

In case you are the one who caused the accident, it is natural to worry about expenses that involve the other party. Comprehensive insurance is a good option to cover risks to yourself and others, so you may want to consider it.

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Product database updated 04 May, 2024

This article was reviewed by Personal Finance Editor Peter Terlato before it was published as part of RateCity's Fact Check process.