What Happens After a Car Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide

Every year, Australian roads are the scene of almost a thousand deaths and tens of thousands of serious injuries—sobering figures that highlight how unpredictable a simple drive can become. No one expects to be caught up in a crash, but knowing exactly what to do if the worst happens can make all the difference. In the confusion and shock that follows an accident, having a clear plan helps you stay calm, safeguard everyone’s wellbeing, and avoid costly legal or financial missteps.

This guide is designed to be your practical companion, breaking down each vital step—from securing the scene and gathering evidence, through to lodging claims and arranging repairs—into straightforward, actionable advice. Whether you drive for personal or business reasons, or operate in a state with its own reporting rules, you’ll find options tailored for NSW, Victoria and beyond. Take a few minutes now to understand the process, so if you’re ever faced with the unexpected, you’ll be ready to protect yourself, your passengers and your rights.

Step 1: Ensure Safety and Secure the Scene

Your first priority after a collision is to protect yourself, your passengers and anyone else nearby. As soon as you can, check for immediate risks—leaking fuel, a plume of smoke or oncoming traffic—and take steps to contain them. For example, if you smell petrol or spot smoke, switch off the engine at once and move everyone at least 30 metres away from the vehicles.

Once you’ve confirmed there’s no fire or spillage risk, make yourself visible to other drivers. Switch on your hazard lights, and if you have warning triangles or cones, position them at a safe distance behind your car. In Western Australia, Main Roads offers free crash-site towing—just call 138 138 and they’ll arrange to move your vehicle to a safer spot.

Keep a basic safety kit in your boot so you’re never caught out. At a minimum, you should carry:

A high-visibility vest or brightly coloured jacket
A folding warning triangle (or two)
A strong torch with spare batteries
Basic first-aid supplies (bandages, antiseptic wipes)
A pair of sturdy gloves

Assess Immediate Hazards

Before you or anyone else moves around the scene, scan carefully for dangers:

Fuel or oil leaks that could ignite
Broken glass, metal shards or other sharp debris
Vehicles that look unstable or are at risk of rolling
Downed power lines or damaged poles
Heavy traffic still flowing through the crash site

If any of these hazards are present, keep everyone at a safe distance and wait for emergency services to arrive.

Move to a Safe Location

If your vehicle is still driveable, steer it slowly onto the roadside or shoulder, well clear of traffic. Choose a spot that’s level and visible to oncoming drivers. If the car won’t move, leave it where it is with hazard lights flashing and make sure passengers stand well off the road—on the footpath or behind a sturdy barrier, if available.

Use Hazard Lights and Warning Devices

Hazard lights alone may not be enough at night or in poor visibility. Place your warning triangles or cones approximately 30 metres behind the rear of your vehicle, at a slight angle to alert approaching traffic. If there’s a second device, put it around 10 metres further back. This gives drivers plenty of warning and reduces the chance of a secondary collision.

Step 2: Check for Injuries and Call Emergency Services

Once you’ve secured the scene, your next priority is to check for injuries—starting with yourself and any passengers, then moving on to other people involved. Even if you don’t feel pain immediately, adrenaline can mask serious wounds. If anyone appears injured, or you’re in doubt, don’t hesitate to call for professional help. Under NSW law (and in most other states), drivers have a legal duty to stop and render assistance, so acting quickly isn’t just common sense—it’s your responsibility.

Here’s when to call emergency services:

Ambulance (000): if anyone is unconscious, bleeding heavily, complaining of chest pain, having trouble breathing, or showing signs of a spinal injury.
Police (000): for life-threatening injuries, major property damage, vehicles blocking the road or if you suspect someone is under the influence.
WA Police Assistance Line (131 444): for non-life-threatening situations in Western Australia where police attendance is needed but an ambulance is not.

To keep things clear when you ring triple zero, try this script:

“Triple zero, I need an ambulance at the corner of Pacific Highway and Parnell Street in St Leonards. Two people injured—one unconscious, one with a head wound—and there’s a risk of leaking fuel.”

Finish by confirming the location, nature of injuries and any hazards (e.g. fuel spills, fire risk), then stay on the line until the operator tells you it’s okay to hang up.

Self-Assessment for Injuries

Look for cuts, bruises or bleeding—even small wounds can hide deeper damage.
Be alert for signs of whiplash: neck pain, stiffness or blurred vision.
Watch out for concussion symptoms: headache, dizziness, nausea or confusion.
If you suspect head, neck or back trauma, keep your spine neutral—do not move around until paramedics arrive.

Checking Other Parties for Injuries

Approach other drivers and passengers cautiously, especially if vehicles are unstable. If you’re trained in first aid and it’s safe to do so, offer comfort and basic care—apply pressure to bleeding wounds, support injured limbs, or help someone into a stable position. Never attempt to lift or move an injured person unless there’s an immediate threat, such as a fire or sinking vehicle.

When and How to Call 000

Dial 000 on your mobile or landline as soon as you identify a serious injury.
Stay calm and speak clearly—the operator will ask for:
- Exact location (road names, nearest intersection or kilometre marker)
- Number and severity of injuries
- Hazards at the scene (fuel leaks, downed power lines, unstable vehicles)
Follow instructions—the operator may give you basic first-aid guidance while help is on the way.
Alternative in WA: if police attendance is required but it’s not life-threatening, you can call 131 444 instead of 000.

Promptly calling the right service can make all the difference to someone’s recovery—and ensures you meet your legal and moral obligations after a crash.

Step 3: Exchange Details with Other Drivers and Witnesses

After checking for injuries and calling emergency services, the next crucial step is to stop and swap particulars with anyone involved in the crash. Exchanging information isn’t just polite—it’s a legal requirement in every Australian state and territory. Jotting down or, better yet, photographing the right details ensures a smooth claims process and protects you from potential fines or charges if someone later claims you fled the scene.

When you approach the other driver, stay calm and respectful. Let them know you need to gather information for insurance and police reports. If there are passengers in either vehicle, these steps apply to them as well. Once you’ve collected driver details, turn your attention to any bystanders who witnessed the accident. Their accounts can be invaluable if there’s any dispute over fault.

A handy tip: instead of scribbling licence numbers on a shaky notepad, use your phone’s camera to capture licences, registration plates and insurance policy cards. This reduces errors and speeds up the process, especially if your hands are unsteady.

Information You Must Collect from Drivers

You’ll need to gather a standard set of details from every driver involved:

Full name and home address
Mobile phone number (or best contact)
Driver’s licence number and state of issue
Vehicle registration and make/model
Insurer name and policy number
Name and contact details of the vehicle owner (if different)

If you can, photograph each document—licence front and back, registration label and insurance card. Save the images in a dedicated album or folder so they’re easy to find later.

Gathering Witness Names and Statements

Witnesses can confirm how the crash happened, which lanes were in use and who might have been at fault. Politely introduce yourself (“Hi, I’m Alex—I was driving the silver hatchback”) and ask:

“Could you tell me what you saw happen?”
“Which direction were each of the cars travelling?”
“Where were you standing when you saw the collision?”

Record their name and phone number, and if they’re comfortable, capture a quick voice memo on your phone. Even a brief statement—“I saw Car A run the red light, then hit Car B on the passenger side”—can prove critical if fault becomes contested.

What to Do if Someone Refuses to Provide Details

Occasionally, a driver or witness may be reluctant to share their information. If that happens:

Politely remind them it’s a legal requirement to exchange details after a crash.
Note down whatever you can—vehicle description, partial plate numbers, distinguishing marks (stickers, dents).
If they still refuse, step back to a safe distance and phone the police (000). Explain the refusal, providing your own details and the other vehicle’s description so officers can follow up.

Recording the refusal—either by taking a short video or a timestamped note—can help your insurer or the police trace the individual later. Always prioritise your safety: if someone becomes aggressive, back off and wait for the police to arrive.

Step 4: Document the Accident Scene

After you’ve exchanged details and ensured everyone is safe, it’s time to preserve the evidence. A well-documented accident scene can make all the difference when you file an insurance claim or a police report. Aim to capture the full picture—from the big picture down to the smallest detail—so that nothing is left to memory or interpretation later.

Start by taking your time. Even a minute or two spent carefully framing each shot or jotting down observations can save hours of back-and-forth with insurers or investigators. Wherever possible, use your phone’s date- and time-stamp feature (or a dedicated camera) to ensure every image is accurately recorded. If you have a simple notebook and pen in your safety kit, sketch out the scene and note anything that might not be obvious in photographs, such as skid-mark lengths or the precise location of road signs.

Taking Photographs from Multiple Angles

Begin with a wide-angle shot that shows all vehicles in relation to the road, kerb or median strip.
Move closer for detail shots: capture bumper damage, headlight cracks, tyre scuffs and broken glass.
Photograph any skid marks, gouges in the road surface or paint transfer between vehicles.
Include surrounding landmarks—traffic lights, street signs or nearby buildings—to help pinpoint the location.
When possible, place a ruler, wallet or another object of known size next to damage for scale in close-up shots.

Sketching the Scene and Writing Notes

If you can, pull out a notepad and draw a simple diagram of the collision:

Show each vehicle’s final resting position with arrows indicating the direction of travel.
Mark distances between cars, kerb edges or fixed objects like poles.
Label road features—lanes, intersections, pedestrian crossings—and note which vehicle was in which lane.

Alongside your sketch, write down brief observations: “Red sedan veered left after hitting front bumper,” or “Northbound truck’s front tyre on kerb.” This freeform record can clarify things that a photograph alone cannot.

Recording Road, Weather and Traffic Conditions

Your visual evidence is stronger when supported by contextual details:

Road surface: wet, dry, gravel, newly resurfaced?
Visibility: bright sun, dusk, fog, heavy rain, glare from oncoming headlights?
Traffic flow: light, moderate, congested; stationary queue ahead?
Weather: clear skies, drizzle, gale-force winds, smoke from nearby bushfire?

Jot these down in a few bullet points or take a quick voice memo. That way, if a dispute arises over conditions—say, whether rain played a part—you’ll have your own contemporaneous record to back you up.

By combining clear photos, a simple sketch and concise notes, you’ll build a comprehensive case file that benefits both you and your insurer. This thorough approach can help speed up claims, reduce arguments over fault and ensure you’re properly covered for every angle of what happened.

Step 5: Report the Crash to Police and Transport Authorities

After securing safety, gathering details and documenting the scene, the next critical step is to report the incident to the appropriate authorities. In many cases, police attendance is mandatory. Failing to involve them when required can lead to fines or legal complications.

When Police Must Attend and What to Expect

Police officers must attend the scene if any of the following apply:

A person has died or sustained injuries requiring medical attention (ambulance, nurse or doctor).
Total property damage across all vehicles and objects exceeds $3,000.
Any driver or witness refuses to exchange contact and insurance details.
There is suspicion of impairment (alcohol, drugs or fatigue).

Once on-site, officers will:

Secure the area and manage traffic flow if necessary.
Take statements from drivers, passengers and witnesses.
Conduct impairment tests (breath or field sobriety tests) if alcohol or drug use is suspected.
Record evidence, such as photographs and measurements, and may commission a diagram of the crash.
Provide you with a police event or report number—make a note of this, as it will be vital for any insurance or legal follow-up.

How to Report a Crash Online via Service NSW

If your crash is minor—no one is seriously hurt, all parties have exchanged details, and at least one vehicle has been towed away—you may be eligible to report online rather than wait for police attendance. To use the Service NSW portal:

Visit Report a traffic crash online with NSW Police.
Complete the form with details such as date, time, location and parties involved.
Upload any supporting documents—photos of damage, your notes or a copy of exchanged information.
Review your submission and click Submit.

This option frees up emergency services for more serious incidents and prevents unnecessary delays at the scene.

Receiving the Police Report Number

Once your online report is accepted or the officers have finalised their on-scene paperwork, you’ll receive a unique reference number. This code:

Confirms you’ve met your legal obligations.
Serves as proof for your insurer or financier.
Simplifies future correspondence with police or legal representatives.

Be sure to save this number in your accident file—alongside photos, witness statements and any medical reports—so you can access it quickly when lodging your insurance claim.

Step 6: Seek Medical Attention and Monitor for Delayed Symptoms

Even if you walk away from a crash feeling fine, it’s crucial to get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible—ideally within 24 hours. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries, and some conditions only show up later. A prompt assessment at an emergency department or your GP not only ensures you receive the right care, but also creates an official medical record linking any injuries to the accident. These records can prove invaluable if you later need to claim on your insurance or pursue compensation.

Watch for these warning signs—if you notice any of them, seek medical help straight away:

Severe or increasing pain in the neck, back or joints
Loss of consciousness, confusion or memory gaps
Difficulty breathing or chest tightness
Numbness, tingling or weakness in limbs
Persistent headache, dizziness, nausea or vomiting
Changes in vision, hearing or speech
Unusual emotional distress or anxiety

Even if none of these symptoms appear immediately, schedule a follow-up appointment. Conditions like whiplash, soft tissue strains or mild concussions can take days or weeks to become obvious. Early diagnosis and treatment not only speed up your recovery, but also strengthen any insurance or TAC (in Victoria) claims by showing you acted responsibly.

Visiting a Hospital or Doctor After an Accident

When you arrive at the hospital or clinic, describe exactly what happened: speed, point of impact, and any immediate symptoms. Ask the triage nurse or doctor to note that your injuries stem from the car accident. If you’re sent home, request a referral for X-rays, CT scans or specialist reviews—especially if you’re still sore after a few days.

Signs of Delayed Injuries and Why Follow-Up Matters

Some injuries emerge slowly. Whiplash can present as stiff, painful neck motion; soft tissue damage may cause swelling or reduced range of movement; and psychological trauma might manifest as anxiety, sleep problems or mood swings. Book a follow-up within a week, even if you feel fine. Catching problems early means simpler treatment and better long-term outcomes.

Keeping Medical Records for Claims

Maintain a complete folder of everything related to your treatment:

Admission notes and discharge summaries
Imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT) and test results
Specialist or physiotherapy referrals
Invoices and receipts for consultations, medications or therapies

Scan or photograph each document for digital backup, and store them alongside your accident photos and police report. When you lodge an insurance or TAC claim, this organised trail will demonstrate your injuries and help fast-track any entitlement to benefits or compensation.

Step 7: Notify Your Insurer Promptly

Once you’ve secured the scene, exchanged details and sought any necessary medical help, your next move is to tell your insurer. Contacting your provider as soon as possible—ideally on the same day—helps ensure your policy remains valid and speeds up the claims process. Late notification can lead to delays, extra questions or even a denied claim, so grab your policy number and call sooner rather than later.

Before you pick up the phone or log into your insurer’s portal, gather the essentials:

Your policy number and insurer name
Date, time and location of the accident
A brief summary of what happened (who, what, where)
Police report or event reference number
Details of the other driver: name, vehicle registration, insurer

As a rule of thumb, try to notify your insurer within 24 hours of the crash. Most insurers will acknowledge your call or online submission within 12–24 hours, issuing you a claim number and explaining next steps.

Why Early Notification Matters

Notifying your insurer straight away:

Demonstrates you’ve met your policy obligation to report incidents promptly
Reduces the chance of late-notice penalties or a refusal to cover the loss
Gets the ball rolling on damage assessments, repair bookings and any temporary hire vehicle entitlements

Once you’ve lodged your initial report, keep a record of any reference or claim numbers, along with the name of the person you spoke to and a timestamp. This written trail can be invaluable if questions arise later.

How to Contact Your Insurer’s Claims Team

Insurers typically offer several ways to lodge a claim:

Phone: speaking directly with a claims handler can be fastest for complex questions
Online portal or mobile app: uploading photos, documents and notes directly to your file
Email: useful for sending large attachments or detailed timelines

No matter the method, prepare a short list of questions—such as “What excess applies?” or “Can I choose my own repairer?”—and attach the photos, police number and witness statements you’ve already collected. That way, your insurer can give you clear guidance from the outset.

Referencing the Claim Process Guide

For a step-by-step walkthrough—from filing your claim to approving repairs—check out our comprehensive step-by-step claim process guide. It covers:

What happens when you submit your details
How repair estimates are arranged
The role of excesses and when you’ll need to pay them
Typical timelines for approval, repair and settlement

Armed with this guide and your insurer’s instructions, you’ll have a clear path to getting your vehicle back on the road and your life back to normal.

Step 8: Understand Your Insurance Coverage and Excess

It’s one thing to get a shiny quote; it’s another to know exactly what you’re covered for and how much you’ll pay if you claim. In Australia, car insurance usually comes in three main types:

Cover Type	What’s Covered	What’s Not Covered	Typical Excess Range
Comprehensive	Your own vehicle damage, third-party property, theft, fire, vandalism	Wear and tear, mechanical breakdown	$300–$750
Third-Party Fire & Theft	Third-party property damage, plus your car if stolen or fire-affected	Accident damage to your own vehicle	$200–$600
Third-Party Only	Damage you cause to other vehicles or property	Any damage to your own car, theft or fire	$200–$500

Comprehensive policies provide the broadest cover; third-party fire & theft add protection for your car if it’s stolen or burns; and third-party only is the most basic, covering only damage you cause to others.

Excess Amounts, Waivers and Quote-to-Value Ratio

Whenever you claim, you’ll pay an excess—your share of the repair bill. There are two components:

Compulsory excess: Set by your insurer and specified in your policy.
Voluntary excess: An optional extra you choose to lower your premium.

For instance, a $500 compulsory excess plus a $300 voluntary excess means you contribute $800 on a claim. Opting for a higher voluntary excess can shave hundreds off your annual premium, but make sure you could cover that cost if you need to lodge a claim.

In not-at-fault crashes, many insurers will recover your excess from the other party’s insurer and refund you. Always check your policy wording—excess waivers and recoveries vary between providers.

Assessing Your Quote-to-Value Ratio

A cheap premium is tempting, but value goes beyond price. The quote-to-value ratio measures how much cover and benefits you get for each dollar you pay. A low quote might have gaps—high excesses, limited cover, or fewer benefits—leaving you out of pocket when it counts.

Actionable tip: each renewal, review your policy and ask:

Is my excess level affordable if I need to claim?
Does the cover match my driving profile (e.g. private, courier, rideshare)?
Could I get equal or better cover for a similar price elsewhere?

A quick annual check ensures you’re not just chasing the lowest premium, but securing the smart balance of protection and cost.

Step 9: Lodge Your Insurance Claim

With safety secured, evidence gathered and your insurer alerted, the next step is to formally lodge your claim. This process can be handled online, over the phone or with a written form—choose the method that suits you best. Regardless of the channel, you’ll need to provide clear details of the incident, attach supporting documentation and keep track of your claim’s progress. A streamlined approach makes it easier to get your car repaired (or replaced), cover medical expenses if necessary and restore your peace of mind.

If your policy covers multiple scenarios—such as accidental damage, theft or parked-vehicle incidents—make sure you select the correct claim type. Misclassifying your claim can lead to delays or unnecessary questions. For a high-level walkthrough of how claims typically flow from start to finish, consult our seamless claims process overview before you begin.

Completing the Insurer’s Claim Form

Log in or call. Access your insurer’s online portal or ring the claims hotline.
Enter personal and policy details. Have your policy number, vehicle registration and contact information ready.
Describe the incident. Summarise what happened—date, time, location and parties involved—in a few clear sentences.
Select claim type. Choose the correct category (e.g. accidental damage, fire/theft, windscreen).
Answer specific questions. This may include estimated repair costs, whether the vehicle is drivable and whether you’ve lodged a police report.
Declare accuracy. Read and agree to any declarations or terms before submission.

If you’re completing a paper form, follow the same steps in writing. Use block letters, keep answers concise and attach copies (never send originals).

Submitting Supporting Evidence and Estimates

Strengthen your claim by bundling key documents:

Time-stamped photos and videos of the damage and scene
Police report reference number and a copy of the event report
Repair estimates or quotes from approved panel beaters
Medical records and invoices (if bodily injury is part of the claim)
Witness statements or signed notes, where applicable

Tip: label each file clearly (e.g. “2025-06-24_PoliceReport.pdf” or “FrontBumper_Damage.jpg”) and upload them all together to avoid confusion. If you’re emailing your claim, compress attachments into a single ZIP file and reference your claim number in the subject line.

What to Expect During the Insurer’s Decision Period

Once lodged, most insurers will:

Issue a claim number within 48 hours and confirm receipt.
Assign a claims adjuster who may inspect your vehicle or arrange a valuation.
Review your documentation, determine liability and calculate repair or settlement costs.
Communicate a decision—approval, request for more information or rejection—often within 10–14 days for straightforward claims.

Keep a record of every call or email, noting dates, names and key points. If the insurer needs more information, respond promptly to avoid stalling the process. And if you disagree with any decision, ask about the internal review or dispute resolution procedure. With clear records and timely follow-ups, you’ll be in the best position to see your claim through to a satisfactory conclusion.

Step 10: Arrange Vehicle Repairs, Towing and Replacement Transport

Once your insurer has accepted liability and assessed the damage, it’s time to organise repairs, towing and any temporary transport you might need. Acting quickly helps get you back on the road and reduces out-of-pocket expenses. Whether you choose the insurer’s approved network or prefer your own repairer, there’s a clear process to follow—and plenty of benefits to using panel beaters recommended by your insurer.

A typical timeline looks like this:

Damage Assessment: Claims adjuster or approved repairer inspects your vehicle.
Repair Booking: You approve the estimate and book a repair slot.
Towing (if needed): Authorised operator collects your car and delivers it to the repair centre.
Replacement Transport: Collection of a courtesy vehicle, if eligible.
Repairs Completed: Inspection, collection and final walkthrough.

By sticking to these steps and using authorised providers, you’ll often qualify for perks such as a lifetime warranty on repairs and discounts on your excess.

Choosing Approved Repairers and Towing Services

If your policy offers access to a panel of approved repairers, you can:

Verify the repairer’s licence and insurer affiliation before booking.
Agree on a fixed quote—no hidden extras once the job begins.
Authorise towing through your insurer, avoiding unexpected haulage fees.

If you’d rather use your own mechanic, check your policy wording first: you may need pre-approval to ensure your claim isn’t delayed or reduced. For towing, only accept operators with authorisation from your insurer (or, in WA, via Main Roads if you’re using their crash-site tow service).

Lifetime Repair Warranty and Excess Discounts

Many insurers guarantee a lifetime warranty on all workmanship and parts supplied by their approved repairers. If a defect emerges later, simply return to the same workshop to have it fixed at no extra cost.

You may also enjoy an excess discount when you use an insurer-preferred repairer. For example, if your policy excess is $500 but you opt for a panel beater, you might only pay $250. Always confirm the exact discount with your claims handler before proceeding.

Accessing a Replacement Car for Not-At-Fault Claims

If another driver is deemed responsible for the accident, you may be entitled to a courtesy vehicle for the duration of your repairs. To secure one:

Provide proof of not-at-fault status: the police report or insurer’s liability confirmation.
Submit a replacement transport request to your insurer, quoting your claim number.
Book the vehicle through the insurer’s nominated rental partner.

In most cases, you can arrange a replacement car that suits your needs—be it a small hatchback for daily errands or a ute for work. The entitlement typically runs from the day your car goes into the workshop until the day you pick it up (capped at a maximum of 14 or 21 days, depending on your policy).

With repairs underway, towing managed and a loan vehicle at your disposal, you can focus on getting back to your routine with minimal disruption.

Step 11: Consider a CTP Compensation Claim Through TAC

If you’re injured in a motor vehicle accident in Victoria, the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) provides a no-fault, compulsory third-party (CTP) scheme to help cover medical costs, rehabilitation and income support. Unlike standard car insurance, TAC benefits kick in regardless of who caused the crash—so even if you were at fault, you may still qualify for assistance with your treatment and recovery expenses.

Eligibility for Compulsory Third-Party Injury Compensation

To be eligible for TAC compensation, you must meet all of the following criteria:

You were a driver, passenger, pedestrian, cyclist or pillion passenger in Victoria at the time of the crash.
Your injuries arose from the use or operation of a registered motor vehicle on a public road (including car parks).
You haven’t already been fully compensated for the same injuries through another scheme or court award.
You lodge your claim within the applicable timeframes (see below).

Commonly covered injuries include soft-tissue strains, fractures, head trauma and psychological conditions arising from the accident. The scheme also extends to dependants of deceased victims in certain circumstances.

How to Lodge a Claim with the TAC

There are three straightforward ways to start your TAC claim:

Hospital form submission
When you’re treated in participating hospitals, TAC claim forms are often available at the emergency or admissions desk. Ask staff to provide and lodge the form on your behalf.
Online claim form
Complete the TAC’s digital application at any time by visiting Making a claim for compensation. You’ll receive an acknowledgment email with your unique claim number.
Telephone
Call TAC on 1300 654 329 (Mon–Fri, 8 am–7 pm) to speak with a claims advisor. They’ll guide you through the details and send you the relevant documentation by post or email.

Key Timeframes and Medical Reports Required

Timing is crucial when lodging a TAC claim:

Standard deadline: within one year of the accident or first noticing your injuries.
Extended deadline for minors: until their 21st birthday if the crash occurred when they were under 18.
Late claims: may be accepted in exceptional circumstances, but require a valid reason and supporting evidence.

When you submit your application, you’ll need:

Authority to Release Information form, allowing TAC to access your medical and hospital records.
Copies of medical reports, diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans) and treatment invoices.
Statements from treating practitioners or allied health professionals outlining the nature and extent of your injuries.

Keeping these documents organised—both digitally and in hard copy—speeds up the assessment and ensures you get the support you need without unnecessary delays. Once your claim is accepted, TAC can arrange direct payment to hospitals, specialists and allied health providers, and even cover certain travel expenses to appointments.

Step 12: Finalising the Process and Preparing for Future Incidents

By this stage your claim is settled, repairs are complete and any replacement transport returned. But the process isn’t truly over until you close off loose ends and prepare for the unexpected. Taking a few final steps now will give you peace of mind—and help you hit the ground running should you ever need to repeat the process.

Reviewing Your Claim and Policy Details

Once you receive your settlement paperwork, take time to read it carefully:

Confirm the final repair costs or cash settlement match the amounts outlined in your claim approval.
Check for any adjustments to your policy terms, such as changes to your excess or cover limits.
Note your next renewal date and any special conditions that may apply to your future premiums.
If you’re financing your vehicle, advise your lender that repairs are complete and provide them with any necessary invoices or compliance certificates.

Keeping a summary of these items—settlement amount, policy changes and renewal deadline—ensures you won’t be caught off guard when it’s time to review your cover again.

Paying Excess and Completing Repairs

If you haven’t already, arrange payment of your excess:

At the repairer: many panel beaters will collect the excess on behalf of your insurer before releasing the vehicle.
Via insurer: some providers issue an invoice or debit your nominated account once the repair bill is finalised.

Always ask for a receipt and store it with your claim documents. Once you collect your car, inspect the workmanship carefully—take a short test drive, check new panels align correctly and ensure any replaced parts match the rest of the vehicle. If something doesn’t look right, report it immediately to both the repairer and your insurer under your lifetime warranty.

Tips to Be Better Prepared if It Happens Again

A little forward planning can turn a stressful crash into a minor inconvenience:

Maintain a dedicated crash kit in your glovebox or boot:
• Warning triangle and hi-vis vest
• Torch with spare batteries and a portable phone charger
• Notepad and pen for jotting down details
• Pre-printed emergency contact list (insurer, family, roadside assistance)
Store digital copies of your licence, registration, insurance policy and emergency numbers—either in a secure cloud folder or a locked notes app on your phone.
Save key numbers into your contacts: triple zero (000), WA Police Assistance (131 444), Main Roads WA tow service (138 138) and your insurer’s 24/7 claims line.
Review your policy annually—compare cover levels, excess options and benefits like lifetime repair warranties or replacement vehicles, and take advantage of any price-beat guarantees to ensure you’re getting the best value.

By tying up these final tasks and bolstering your preparation kit, you’ll be in a stronger position both mentally and practically should you ever face another roadside emergency.

What to Do Now

When you’re back on your feet and the dust has settled, take a moment to lock in what you’ve learned here. First, remember those immediate essentials: secure the scene, check for injuries, swap details and call the right emergency services. Next, keep your evidence—photos, notes, the police reference—and lodge your claim with all supporting documents. Finally, arrange repairs, excess payments and any replacement transport, and wrap up your TAC or CTP application if you’re in Victoria.

To make sure you’re ready for whatever happens next time, do three simple things right now:

Save this guide in your phone or print a copy to keep in the glovebox.
Program essential numbers into your contacts: 000 (police and ambulance), 131 444 (WA Police Assistance), 138 138 (Main Roads WA crash tow) and your insurer’s 24/7 claims line.
Review your car insurance policy annually—compare cover options, excess levels and replace any outdated details.

Got everything in place? When you’re ready to lock in great cover at a competitive rate, head over to National Cover to get a quick quote or compare policies that suit your driving needs. Safe travels!