Getting into a car accident whether a major scratch or a minor impact, it is a stressful condition. But while you might feel stressed, what you do in the coming hour can make a huge difference for your safety, stress levels & how smoothly your claim or repair runs. If you are from Melbourne and thinking about not at fault accident claims, this guide will walk you through the vital steps right after a car accident.

1. Check for Injuries & Safety

First thing you need to check for injuries and safety. If your hazards light is safe, move your car off the main carriageway into a quiet lane, so you are not in the path of traffic. You must call 000 straight away, If someone is hurt or there is a risk of fire or damage.

If the accident impact looks minor, do not forget to check yourself, your passengers and the other parts of your car. Sometimes injuries are not immediately obvious. If you ensure safety comes first, it gives you a stable base for everything else that follows.

2. Exchange Details & Get the Other Driver’s Information

Once you are safely parked your car, you will need to exchange key details with the other driver. This step is particularly vital if you believe the crash might lead to a not‑at‑fault claim. From the other driver get:

·      Name, address & contact number

·      Licence number, car registration & car make/model

·      Their insurer and insurance policy number

At the same time, you need to give your details too. Under Victorian law you must stop and exchange your details if you are involved in an accident even if there’s no visible damage.

Also, if there are any witnesses nearby, politely ask for their names and mobile numbers. Their independent account may assist your insurance or claim.

3. Record the Scene Thoroughly

While you’re still at the scene, gather as much evidence as you can. Use your phone to take photos from multiple angles:

·      The position of your cars before they moved (if safe)

·      Damage on each car (close‑ups and wider shots)

·      Road conditions, weather, nearby signage, intersection layout

·      Any skid marks or debris

Photos are incredibly helpful if you pursue not at fault accident claims, they provide proof and support your version of events.

Try not to apologise or admit fault at the scene even saying “sorry” may sometimes be taken as an admission of liability. Staying calm and factual is best.

4. Notify Police if Required

You may not always need to call police after a minor incident, but in Victoria there are certain situations when you must. Call 000 if:

·      Someone’s injured or trapped

·      One car is blocking traffic or cannot move safely

·      The other driver refuses to share their details or appears intoxicated

·      Public infrastructure or property is damaged

If in doubt, it’s safer to call the police. Having a police report may help later if you’re claiming damage or dealing with fault disputes.

5. Contact Your Insurer and Discuss Your Options

Once the immediate safety and scene tasks are done, you’ll want to call your insurer or the other driver’s insurer if you believe you’re not at fault. Let them know what happened and that you’re gathering information.

If you’re in a situation involving not at fault accident claims, you’ll want to clarify how the insurer handles fault investigations, how the repair process will be managed and whether a hire car is available.

Even if the damage looks minor, reporting early keeps your options open. Photos and notes are still fresh and you’ll be in a better position to cooperate. Many accident‑repairers also prefer dealing with insurers early rather than after delays.

6. Arrange for the Car to Be Inspected or Repaired

If your car is driveable, you might still want a check‑up. If it’s not, arrange a tow to a trusted repairer. Search for car body repair near me in your area and pick a workshop that handles accident damage, works with insurers and offers a transparent quote.

Keep all documentation: loan car receipts (if you use one), repair quotes, photos of parts removed or replaced. In not‑at‑fault scenarios, good documentation safeguards your rights.

A repairer comfortable with handling not‑fault matters will liaise with insurer, may offer direct billing and help you manage downtime. Being proactive here means less hassle later.

7. Keep a Detailed Record of Everything

During the weeks after the crash, continue collecting documentation. That includes:

·      Your repairs invoices and quotes

·      Receipts for alternative transport (hire car, rideshare) if you used those

·      Any support you needed (if the car was essential to your day)

·      Written correspondence with insurers or the repairer

These records support your claim and ensure you’re not disadvantaged if the fault outcome shifts, or if additional damage emerges later.

8. Understand Fault and Your Rights for Not‑at‑Fault Claims

If the other driver is clearly at fault, you may be eligible for a not at fault accident claim. This means the other driver’s insurer should pay for your repairs, hire car and possibly other costs without you using your own insurer.

To maximise your success:

·      Ensure fault isn’t admitted at the scene prematurely by either side

·      Have strong evidence

·      Keep your own insurer informed some policies require you to notify them, even if you’re not claiming via them

·      Choose a reputable repairer who knows not‑fault processes

Fault decisions might take time but with proper records and repairer support you will be in a stronger position.

9. Monitor Repairs and Ensure Quality

When you choose your repairer, ask questions such as:

·      Will genuine parts be used?

·      What guarantee is offered on labour and parts?

·      How long will the repair take and what condition will the car be returned in?

Stay involved: inspect the work, ask for before/after photos, confirm that safety systems are reset properly.

For not‑at‑fault claims, the insurer will expect repairs to restore the car to the pre‑accident condition not just make it drivable. Quality matters.

10. Reflect and Plan for Your Next Step

After the repair is completed and you’re back on the road, take a moment to reflect:

·      Do you need to update driver or car information in your insurance?

·      Has your fault claim been settled or are there loose ends?

·      Can you review what happened, perhaps improve how you document or respond if it ever happens again?

Planning ahead reduces stress if the unexpected ever occurs again.

Final Thoughts

Car accident in Melbourne can feel challenging and overwhelming. With these steps you will nbe able to manage the condition thoughtfully, protect your rights and reduce disruption. From assessing safety, gathering details, calling police if required, to choosing a repairer via car body repair near me, you are in control of the entire process. If you are aiming for not at fault accident claims, every photo taken, detail recorded and repair choice made strengthens your position.

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