What to do after a Car
or Motorbike Accident
in NSW
A simple guide to your not-at-fault rights in NSW.
Clear Steps for
NSW Drivers and Riders.
After an accident on NSW roads, most people are left asking the same questions.
Who was at fault? What happens next? What do insurers need? Am I entitled to an accident replacement vehicle? Who pays for repairs?
This guide explains what to do after a car or motorbike accident in NSW, step by step, based on NSW road rules and insurer processes. It is designed to help you protect your rights, avoid common mistakes, and understand what to expect.
If you were not at fault, CrashClaim can manage the entire process for you. That includes accident replacement vehicles, insurer communication and repairs. We will not leave you trying to work it out on your own.
Immediate steps to follow after an accident.
Ensure everyone’s
safety comes first
- Move vehicles out of
traffic (if safe) - Turn on hazard lights
- Stand in a safe area away
from moving vehicles - Check for injuries.
injured, trapped or if the
scene is unsafe.
When to Contact
NSW Police
- If someone is injured or trapped
- If a driver refuses to exchange details
- If a vehicle requires towing
- If alcohol or drugs are suspected
Police Assistance Line: 131 444
Exchange Details
You are required under NSW law to exchange the following:
- Full Name and Address
- Phone Number and Licence Number
- Vehicle Registration
- Insurance details (if available)
Exchange factual information only
Ensure everyone’s
safety comes first
- Move vehicles out of
traffic (if safe) - Turn on hazard lights
- Stand in a safe area away
from moving vehicles - Check for injuries.
injured, trapped or if the
scene is unsafe.
When to Contact
NSW Police
- If someone is injured or trapped
- If a driver refuses to exchange details
- If a vehicle requires towing
- If alcohol or drugs are suspected
Police Assistance Line: 131 444
Exchange Details
You are required under NSW law to exchange the following:
- Full Name and Address
- Phone Number and Licence Number
- Vehicle Registration
- Insurance details (if available)
Exchange factual information only
Fault is determined by law, not by shouting at the scene.
Collect the right evidence.
Good evidence protects your position, helps insurers determine fault fairly and can speed up the claims process.
Standard Photos
- Vehicle positions (before moving, if safe)
- Damage to all involved vehicles
- Skid marks or road debris
- Road signs, lights and lane markings
- Intersection and road layout
- The other vehicle and number plate
- Weather and traffic conditions
Motorbike riders
Claims require more detail. Riders should also photograph:
- Helmets, jackets, gloves and boots
- Road surface conditions
- Detailed point of impact
- Helmet cam/ dashcam footage
Witness statements
Determining fault in NSW
Fault is determined by applying road rules, right-of-way obligations and the actions of each driver or rider. Common not-at-fault situations:
- Rear-end collisions
- Failure to give way
- Unsafe lane merging
- Turning across another vehicle’s path
- Hit while legally lane filtering
- Hit while parked
We can help.
If fault is unclear, CrashClaim can review your evidence and explain exactly where you stand.
Your rights in NSW
Everything handled in one place. No jargon. No confusion. No chasing updates.
Like-for-Like Accident Replacement Vehicle.
You are entitled to stay mobile for the reasonable repair period with no upfront cost.
High-Quality Repairs.
Your vehicle must be repaired safely and properly to manufacturer repair standards and returned to a roadworthy condition.
Choice of Repairer.
Right to choose your own repairer. Cannot be forced to use an insurer’s preferred repairer.
No Upfront Costs.
Reasonable repair and accident replacement vehicle costs are recovered from the at-fault driver’s insurer directly.
Support With Fault Disputes.
If the other driver denies fault, your rights remain. Evidence is what matters most.
What to do if the other driver denies fault
Fault disputes are common, even in straightforward accidents.
- Stick to the facts
- Keep all photos and evidence secure
- Save dashcam or helmet cam footage immediately
- Avoid arguing with the other driver
- Let professionals present the evidence correctly
THE GOLDEN RULE
Insurers, not drivers at the scene, determine fault.
Getting a Accident Replacement Vehicle
If you were not at fault, you may qualify for a suitable accident replacement vehicle for the full repair period.
You qualify when:
- The other driver was at fault
- The other driver can be identified
- Your vehicle is damaged, unsafe or under repair
Organising Repairs:
Your NSW Rights
You choose
your repairer.
You are free to use a repairer you trust.
Repairs must be
completed properly.
Repairs must meet manufacturer repair standards and safety requirements.
Clear
communication.
You have the right to understand what is happening at every stage.
CrashClaim manages
the repair process.
We manage assessments, repair scheduling, progress updates and final quality checks.
Trades, Rideshare and delivery vehicles
If your income depends on your vehicle, even a short period off the road can cause massive disruption.
CrashClaim supports NSW drivers and businesses who rely on their vehicles for work, including:
- Trades and Commercial
- Vans, utes and work vehicles
- Rideshare drivers
- Delivery drivers
CrashClaim can offer:
A work-ready accident replacement vehicle
Minimal downtime during repairs
Recovery
Clear timelines and updates
If you have been in an accident in NSW, you do not need to manage it alone.
One call can cover your claim, accident replacement vehicle and repairs.