Checked against official sources on 2026-11-04
1. Make it safe first
- Turn off the ignition and switch on your hazard lights.
- If anyone is hurt, call 000 for an ambulance, then police.
- Only clear debris or glass from the road if it is safe to do so.
- Stay off the traffic side of the road while you sort out the rest.
2. Exchange the details NSW law requires
Everyone involved must give the others their name and address, the vehicle registration number, and the owner's name and address if they are not the owner. It also helps to note the other driver's phone number, their insurer, and the make, model and colour of their car.
- Take a clear photo of the other car's number plate.
- If the other driver refuses to give details or drives off, that is one of the situations police attend or must be told about.
3. Know when police must be involved
Police attend when someone is trapped, injured or killed, a driver seems affected by alcohol or drugs, someone fails to stop or exchange details, traffic or hazards need managing, or a bus or truck has to be towed.
If police do not come to the scene, you must still report the crash as soon as possible, within 24 hours, if a vehicle is towed away, property is damaged or animals are injured, or you could not give your details to the other driver. Call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 and keep the report number for your claim.
A minor bump where no car is towed and no one is hurt does not need to be reported to police.
4. Photograph more than the dent
- Both cars from a few steps back so their positions are visible.
- Close-ups of every damaged area, on both cars.
- The road: lanes, signs, traffic lights, skid marks and debris.
- The other driver's licence only if they agree; never post it online.
- Names and phone numbers of any witnesses.
5. Decide on towing before you sign anything
If your car cannot be driven safely, you choose who tows it and where it goes. Before towing, you sign a Towing Authorisation Form and you are entitled to a copy. Our towing guide explains what to check.
6. Tell your insurer, and work out who is at fault
Let your own insurer know about the accident as your policy requires, even if you plan to claim from the other driver. If the other driver caused the crash, you may be able to claim your repairs and a replacement car from them or their insurer instead of through your own policy and excess. Write down what happened while it is fresh — time, place, direction of travel and what each car was doing.
Common questions
- Do I have to call the police after a minor accident in NSW?
- Not if no one is hurt and no vehicle needs towing. If a vehicle is towed and police did not attend, report it within 24 hours on 131 444.
- What details do I have to exchange?
- Your name and address, your car's registration number, and the owner's name and address if you are not the owner.
- Can I claim from the other driver if I don't have comprehensive insurance?
- If they were at fault, you can usually make a claim against them or their insurer whatever cover you hold. Whether costs are recovered depends on liability and the evidence.
Sources
General information only, not legal advice. Your situation depends on the facts and the terms you sign.
