Had a Car Accident? Here's What to Do Next

Being involved in a car accident can be stressful, even when the damage looks relatively minor.

Once you've checked that everyone is safe, there are a few important things you can do to make the insurance and repair process easier.

Here's a simple guide for New Zealand drivers.

1. Safety Comes First

Before worrying about your car, make sure everyone involved is safe.

If anyone is injured or there is an immediate emergency, call 111.

If your vehicle is unsafe to drive, don't risk driving it simply to get it home or to a repair shop. Depending on your insurance policy, your insurer may also be able to help arrange recovery or towing.

2. Exchange Details

If another vehicle is involved, collect as much information as you reasonably can.

This should include:

• Driver's name
• Contact details
• Address
• Vehicle registration
• Insurance company
• Details of the vehicle involved

Try not to rely on remembering everything later.

3. Take Plenty of Photos

Your phone can be extremely useful after an accident.

Take photos of:

• The damage to your vehicle
• The other vehicle
• Both vehicles together if it is safe to do so
• Different angles of the damage
• The wider accident scene
• Road conditions
• Relevant signs, markings or surrounding areas

Even if the damage appears small, having good photographs can be helpful when you make your insurance claim and when the vehicle is assessed for repair.

4. Contact Your Insurance Company

If you intend to make an insurance claim, contact your insurer as soon as reasonably possible.

Have your policy details available along with the information you've collected from the accident.

Your insurer can explain the next steps under your particular policy.

It's important to get your insurer's approval before authorising insurance repair work or incurring repair costs.

5. Don't Assume Minor Damage Is Only Cosmetic

A damaged bumper, guard or panel may look straightforward from the outside, but there can sometimes be additional damage underneath.

A proper assessment allows the repairer to determine the extent of the damage and what may be required to restore the vehicle correctly.

Need Your Vehicle Assessed?

Orewa Panel & Paint provides professional panel beating, accident repairs, automotive spray painting and insurance repair services in Orewa.

With more than 35 years of industry experience, our focus is on quality workmanship, clear communication and getting your vehicle repaired properly.

If your vehicle has been damaged, contact our team and tell us what happened.

You can also send us photographs of the damage through our online quote enquiry form.

Need help after an accident?

Contact Orewa Panel & Paint today to discuss your vehicle repair.