February 28, 2025
What To Do When You Have a Minor Car Accident
A minor car accident can happen in the blink of an eye – one second, you’re driving as usual, and the next, you hear that dreaded crunch. It’s a stressful moment, even if the damage seems small. Your mind races with questions – should you call the police? Exchange information? Move your car?
Instead of panicking, follow these simple steps to handle the situation smoothly and get back on the road with as little hassle as possible.
1) Take a Deep Breath
The first few moments after an accident can be overwhelming, but panicking won’t help. Take a deep breath and focus on what needs to be done next. Keeping a clear head will make it easier to assess the situation, communicate with the other driver, and handle things smoothly. Staying calm will make it easier to handle the situation logically and avoid unnecessary mistakes.
2) Check for Injuries
Even in a minor accident, safety comes first. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If you’re able, ask the other driver and anyone else involved if they’re okay. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services immediately. It’s always better to have a professional assessment rather than ignore injuries or potential medical issues.
3) Move to a Safe Location
If the accident happened in a busy area, try to move your car to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot to avoid blocking traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. However, if your car is undrivable or moving it could be unsafe, leave it where it is and wait for assistance.
4) Check for Damage
Once everyone is safe, take a moment to look at the damage. Walk around your car and check for visible dents, scratches, or broken parts. Do the same for the other vehicle involved. If the accident included any stationary objects (like a pole), inspect the impact area as well.
However, be mindful of hidden issues. Not all damage is obvious. Even if your car looks fine, internal components could be affected. A minor bump might cause alignment problems, bumper cracks, or sensor issues that aren’t visible at first glance. If something feels off when you start driving again – like unusual noises, vibrations, or steering problems – get your car checked by a professional as soon as possible.
5) Exchange Information
After ensuring everyone is safe and checking for damage, the next step is exchanging information with the other driver. Here’s what you need to gather:
- Name and Contact Details: Get the full name and phone number of the other driver.
- Insurance Information: Exchange insurance company names and policy numbers.
- License Plate Number and Vehicle Details: Note the make, model, colour, and registration plate of the other vehicle involved.
If there are multiple drivers involved, repeat the process with each one.
During the exchange of information, stay polite and factual. It’s important to keep the conversation calm and professional. Even if you feel responsible, do not admit fault or apologise – liability is determined by insurance companies based on evidence. Stick to the facts when discussing what happened, and avoid speculation. If the other driver becomes confrontational, remain composed and focus on gathering the necessary details.
6) Document the Scene
Take Clear Photos
Your phone is your best tool for capturing evidence. Take detailed pictures of:
- The damage to both vehicles (from multiple angles).
- The accident location, including street signs, intersections, and landmarks.
- Any skid marks, debris, or road conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
Gather Witness Information
Factory-installed screws and fasteners on fenders, bonnet hinges, and splash guards should be uniform in type and wear. If you notice mismatched, rusted, or missing screws, it could be a sign that parts were removed for past repairs.
Small details like this can often reveal hidden repair work, so it’s worth checking closely.
7) Contact the Right People
Police: Call if Required by Law
In Victoria, section 61 of the Road Safety Act 1986 requires you to report a traffic accident to the police in certain situations, including when:
- Someone is injured or killed.
- Property is damaged as a result of the accident
- The other driver fails to stop or refuses to provide their details (name, address, vehicle owner’s details, registration, and vehicle description).
Insurance Company: Report the Incident to Your Insurer
Notify your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all the details, including the other driver’s information, photos, and any witness statements. Prompt reporting helps prevent complications and ensures a smoother claims process.
Repair Shop: Get Your Car Checked
Even if the damage looks minimal, internal issues may not be immediately visible. A professional inspection can uncover hidden problems, such as frame misalignment or sensor malfunctions. If your insurance covers repairs, they will likely provide a list of their approved repair networks.
While insurer-approved repairs may be convenient, they’re often not mandatory. You’re entitled to choose a repairer you trust to properly inspect and repair your vehicle. Picking a repair shop that suits your needs will give you one less thing to worry about!
At Zagame Autobody, we go beyond surface-level fixes with comprehensive inspections to identify even the smallest issues before they become bigger problems. Then, through a simple and stress-free process, our expert team uses genuine parts and precision repair techniques to restore your car to its pre-accident condition. From minor dents to major repairs, we’ll have you back on the road quickly – with quality you can count on.
8) Know Your Rights and Next Steps
After you report the accident, insurance companies will assess the details to determine fault. This process may include:
- Reviewing statements from both drivers.
- Examining photos and police reports (if available).
- Considering witness testimonies.
In some cases, fault may be shared between drivers, impacting how claims are processed and paid out.
Once fault is established, your insurer will guide you through the repair process. Depending on your policy:
- Repairs may be fully covered, or you may have to pay an excess.
- You may need to use an approved repair shop.
- The claims process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the extent of the damage and the responsiveness of both parties.
Need Repairs? We've Got You Covered
Are you in need of repairs? Zagame Autobody has you covered with expert service, genuine parts, and hassle-free repairs. Whether you’re going through insurance and nominating us as your preferred repairer, or simply arranging repairs directly, contact us today and we’ll get your car back on the road quickly and smoothly.