Tip: Have your insurance claim number ready when you take your car to be repaired.
Ideally, you want to avoid having an accident, but if you do have an accident of some kind - whether it involves another vehicle, fence, tree or building, this is what you should do.
- If your vehicle is in the way of other traffic, put your hazard lights on.
- Safely move your car to the nearest curb or verge
- Check everyone is OK and if there are injuries dial 111 for an ambulance. Injuries must be reported to the police within 24 hours.
- If there are any witnesses ask for their name and phone number.
- Assess the damage to your vehicle - is it OK to drive or should you call for a tow truck?
- If possible, photograph the damage. Sketch a picture of what happened while it is still fresh in your mind.
- Remember you have the right to choose your repairer. You don't have to use one that the tow truck or insurance company recommends.
- Before you take your vehicle to a repairer, talk to your insurance company and get a claim number.
Look for the CRA (Collision Repair Association) logo as this assures you they are reputable, competent and reliable. Casey Panelbeaters are CRA approved.
