Being involved in a car accident can be stressful, but NSW law sets out clear obligations for drivers.
Under Rule 287 of the Road Rules 2014 (NSW), drivers involved in a crash must stop and provide certain information to other people affected by the accident.
After a crash, you should exchange:
- your name and address
- your vehicle registration number
- the name and address of the vehicle owner, if different from the driver.
You should also obtain the same information from the other driver.
The information must be provided to other drivers involved in the crash, anyone injured in the accident, and the owner of any property that has been damaged.
You must also provide your details to police if:
- someone is injured or killed
- another driver fails to stop or provide their details
- details cannot be exchanged
- a vehicle involved in the crash is towed away.
It is also a good idea to:
- take photographs of the vehicles, damage and accident scene
- photograph vehicle registration plates
- obtain the names and contact details of any witnesses
- notify your insurer as soon as possible.
Avoid arguing about who was at fault. Instead, exchange the required information and allow insurers to investigate the circumstances.
Knowing your legal obligations can help reduce stress at the scene and make the insurance claims process smoother for everyone involved.
This article provides general information only and is not legal advice.
