The road can be an unpredictable place, where even the most cautious drivers may find themselves in unexpected situations. Among these unexpected events, minor car accidents, often referred to as “fender benders,” are all too common. While they may not result in severe damage or injuries, they can still leave you feeling rattled and uncertain about what to do next. 

Staying Safe at the Scene 

A minor car accident can be a nerve-wracking experience, but ensuring safety for all parties involved should be your top priority. Here’s a closer look at the crucial steps to take immediately after a fender bender: 

Check for Injuries: The first and foremost concern is the well-being of everyone involved. Check yourself and others in your vehicle for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call for medical assistance.

Move to a Safe Location: If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot to avoid obstructing traffic. This step can prevent additional accidents and ensure everyone’s safety.

Turn on Hazard Lights: If you are still in the flow of traffic or your car is in an unsafe spot, activate your hazard lights to signal to other drivers that there’s an issue.

Exchanging Information  

After ensuring safety at the accident scene, the next critical step is exchanging information with the other involved parties. You should collect the following information: 

• Time and location of accident 
• The other driver(s) name, phone number, and address
• The make, model, year and license plate number of the vehicle(s)
• The name of the driver(s) insurance company

How Car Insurance Works  

Depending on your type of car insurance, it may cover you financially if your vehicle is damaged or if you damage someone else’s vehicle or property. 

There are two main types of car insurance: 

• Third Party Property Damage Car Insurance. This type of insurance helps cover the cost of accidentally damaging someone else’s car or property. Damage to your own car is not covered.
• Comprehensive Car Insurance. With comprehensive car insurance, you’re covered for damage to your car, as well as damage you cause to other people’s cars or property.

Insurance companies are expected to pay out for incidents that fall under their coverage. Every insurance company typically has their own claims process, but most adhere to the General Insurance Code of Practice. 

Before making a car insurance claim, you typically have to pay an excess, an initial amount out of your pocket, regardless of fault in the accident. Sometimes, your insurer might waive this excess, but it’s at their discretion, so it’s best to contact them directly for details. When filing a claim, you can do so through various methods provided by your insurer, such as their app, online portal, over the phone, or in person. It’s crucial to report a claim promptly due to potential time limits and available benefits, like access to a rental car or emergency accommodations after an accident. 

Is it Illegal to Drive Without Insurance?  

In NSW, it is illegal to operate a car or motorcycle without having compulsory third-party insurance (often referred to as a ‘green-slip’). Since CTP insurance is integrated with your vehicle registration, renewing your car registration necessitates payment for CTP insurance. 

Repairing Your Vehicle with Kate Presnell’s Smash Repair Services 

Kate Presnell Bodyworks is here to guide you through this process seamlessly, ensuring your vehicle is in expert hands. Our skilled technicians use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to ensure high-quality, precision repairs. 

After an accident, we do all we can to help alleviate your stress, always providing you withexceptional customer service. Not only do we have 3 loan cars available for your convenience, but we offer expert advice if you are unsure of what you’re entitled to after an accident. 

At Kate Presnell Bodyworks, we pride ourselves on being your reliable partner in the journey to restore your vehicle. Our expert team, commitment to transparency, and dedication to quality make us your go-to choice when it comes to repairing your vehicle after a minor accident. Contact us for a free estimate today!