Car Accident – When you drive, safety comes first. After all, you’re behind the wheel of a heavy vehicle, travelling at high speed, surrounded by other fast-moving vehicles.
But alas, accidents do happen – even if you are a generally cautious driver and strictly adhere to speed limits, right of way, and all the other essential rules that govern our roadways. An instance of brief distraction or another driver’s erratic behaviour can easily result in a collision.
Whether or not you’re found at fault for a motor incident, there are a few things you should do after being involved in a collision. From insurance and repair do’s and don’ts, here are some of our top tips for Aussie drivers caught in a car accident.
File Your Insurance Claim Promptly
If you’ve been involved in an accident, you’ll eventually need to make an insurance claim. It may not be the first thing on your mind, but assuming everyone is safe and accounted for, discussing insurance options with the other drivers involved will be one of the first things you’ll do and as such, it’s better to contact your insurance provider sooner rather than later too.
If you’re found to be not at fault for the collision, you can lodge a not at fault accident claim, and as long as you have the other party’s contact information and licence plate number, they’ll be liable for the cost of your excess. Typically, not at fault claims don’t have a negative impact on your policy and won’t result in policy increases, at least compared to at fault claims.
And in the event that you are found to be at fault, then your insurance company will walk you through the next steps, including arranging repairs for your vehicle. Note: third party insurance holders may not have damage to their vehicle covered by their policy for damage relating to accidents where they’re found to be at fault. Contrastingly, comprehensive car insurance policy holders may be able to claim damage to their car under their policy even if they are found to be at fault. Be sure to clarify with your insurance provider if you’re uncertain what your car insurance policy covers.
Confirm That Everyone Is Fine
Ideally, before you make an insurance claim, the very first thing to do after an accident is to make sure that all parties are safe and uninjured. Car accidents can shake you up pretty badly, so it’s normal for you or the other party to be upset, angry, or even very quiet.
It is vital to stay calm. You don’t want to exacerbate the situation by panicking. If someone is injured, it is vital to contact emergency services and report the accident so they can receive treatment.
Immediate Next Steps After an Accident
Once it’s safe to do so, switch on your hazard lights and move your vehicle out of traffic if possible. Pulling to the side of the road or a side street may be a good idea. Make sure the area is secure to prevent further accidents.
You’ll need to exchange details with the other parties involved. Including your names, addresses, phone numbers, vehicle registration. And the name of your insurer. If the other driver refuses to share their information. Try to note their registration number and report the incident to the police. It’s also helpful to collect the contact details of any witnesses who saw what happened, in case of any insurance disputes.
Regardless of who may or may not be at fault, you should also take photos. Of the scene, the vehicles, any damage, and relevant surroundings. Such as road signs, traffic signals, or skid marks. These images could be useful for insurance claims or potential legal matters. Depending on how the other party behaves in the aftermath of the accident.
Repairs or Write-Off
After you’ve made your insurance claim, your insurance company will then arrange for your car to be repaired at a panel beater. They may also offer you a hire car or taxi vouchers. To get around while your car is being fixed, especially in the case of not at fault claims.
However, in some cases, the cost of the repair may be too high for your vehicle and surpass your insurance coverage. In this case, your insurance provider may declare your car a write-off. And provide a payout that’s equivalent to either the market value or an agreed insured value of your vehicle. All based on the features of your insurance policy.
Should You Drive Again Soon After?
Sometimes, a car accident is so bad that you might sustain an injury. Or at the very least, you may be severely shaken up by the whole incident. In either case, you may feel reluctant to get back behind the wheel.
You may feel as though driving is not safe and find yourself avoiding getting back behind the wheel. This is a complex matter, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach for addressing anxiety about driving.
Taking a break from driving until your confidence returns can be prudent. For others, getting back behind the wheel as soon as possible may help restore their confidence. Know your limits and do what makes you feel most comfortable.
Follow These Tips After a Car Accident
Car accidents can be stressful, unpredictable, and emotionally draining. But knowing what to do afterwards in the critical moments that follow every accident can make all the difference. From staying calm at the scene to handling insurance claims and arranging car repairs. Taking the right steps helps protect both your safety and your property.
And try to keep in mind that no two accidents are the same. The circumstances for both parties may vary. As will other factors like road conditions and behaviour from other drivers. In any case, however, being prepared helps ensure you won’t be caught off guard. Keep these tips in mind, drive responsibly. And you’ll be better equipped to get back on the Aussie road with confidence.
