A minor car accident can be a stressful experience, but knowing what to do after a minor car accident can help you stay calm and handle the situation efficiently. Whether it’s a small fender bender in a car park or a low-speed collision at an intersection, having a plan up your sleeve means you can take the right steps to protect yourself and your vehicle.
First Steps After a Minor Accident: Stay Calm
The first thing to do is stay calm. Accidents, even minor ones, can be upsetting, but panicking will only make things harder to manage. Sometimes, you can hit a car without knowing – this is not a big deal as long as you understand what to do. First, take a deep breath and follow these steps:
Check for injuries
Check that you and any passengers are unharmed. If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately. Injuries that seem minor could become worse without medical intervention or assessment.
Move to safety
If the vehicles are blocking traffic and it’s safe to do so, move them to the side of the road. If not, turn on your hazard lights and wait for assistance. Use a traffic cone if available as an extra safety measure.
How to Assess Vehicle Damage
Once everyone is safe or medical assistance is on the way, it’s time to check the vehicles involved. Here’s what to look for:
Visible damage
Check bumpers, lights, fenders, and wheels for dents, scratches, or cracks.
Fluid leaks
If you see oil, coolant, or transmission fluid leaking, it may not be safe to drive.
Hidden damage
Some damage may not be obvious. A misaligned steering wheel, unusual noises, or dashboard warning lights could indicate internal issues.
If your car seems drivable, but you're unsure about hidden damage, it’s best to get a professional inspection. North Shore vehicle servicing experts can check for underlying problems and ensure your car remains safe on the road.
Exchanging Information with the Other Driver
Even in a minor accident, it’s crucial to exchange the right details with the other driver. Here’s what you should collect:
- Full name and contact details
- Driver’s license number
- Vehicle registration plate
- Insurance company and policy number
- Make, model, and colour of the vehicle
Also, take photos of the accident scene, damage, and any relevant road signs or signals. This can be useful when dealing with insurance claims.
When to Contact Your Insurance Company
Many drivers wonder if they should report every minor accident to their insurer. While it depends on the situation, it’s generally a good idea to notify them if:
- The damage is more than just a small scratch.
- The other driver’s vehicle is significantly damaged.
- There’s no dispute about who was at fault.
- Someone was injured.
Even if you choose not to file a claim, reporting the accident ensures you’re protected if the other driver later files a claim against you.
Do You Need to Involve the Police in a Minor Crash?
In New Zealand, the police don’t always need to be involved in minor crashes. However, you should call the police if:
- Someone is injured.
- The accident is blocking traffic.
- The other driver refuses to exchange details.
- You suspect the other driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
If both parties cooperate, you can usually handle it through your insurance company and later rely on automotive repair specialists for any damages, cosmetic and otherwise.
How to Handle Post-Accident Repairs
Once the paperwork is sorted, it’s time to get your vehicle back in shape. Here’s what to do next:
- Get a professional inspection: Even if the damage looks minor, an expert can check for structural or mechanical issues.
- Obtain repair quotes: Get multiple quotes from reputable automotive repair providers to compare costs.
- Schedule the repairs: Choose a trusted repair shop that guarantees quality work.
- Keep all records: Save receipts and repair reports in case your insurance company requests them later.
Stay Safe on the Road with Autoland
Accidents happen, but having a plan in place makes dealing with them much easier. Now that you know what to do after a minor car accident, you can confidently handle the situation with minimal stress. Whether you need a routine inspection, insurance-approved repairs, or general vehicle servicing, Autoland is here to help. Our expert team ensures your car gets the care it needs so you can get back on the road safely.
If you’ve been in a minor accident and need reliable automotive repairs, contact Autoland today, your trusted car mechanic on the North Shore.
