More than 5000 Victorians are seriously injured on our roads each year. With builders and tradespeople spending vast amounts of time in their cars, it’s all too common to be involved in an accident.

Master Builders spoke with Michael Edwards, Store Manager of Sheen Panel Service Bulleen, about what to do if you’re involved in a fender bender.

“The number one rule is to stay calm,” Michael said. “That’s easy to suggest, but challenging to do. It’s vital that you keep a clear head so you can take the next steps.”

Michael offers these 10 tips about what to do in the event of an accident:

1. Don’t panic. Turn off your vehicle ignition and switch on your emergency hazard lights. Be sure to check it’s safe for you to open your car door before stepping out of your vehicle, particularly in heavy traffic.

2. Give assistance to anyone injured and call for an ambulance immediately on 000 if someone is seriously injured or requires medical attention. If an ambulance is called, notify police also.

3. If there are no injuries but vehicles are obstructing traffic, they should be moved to the side of the road if possible, after the point of impact has been agreed on by all involved parties.

4. Take down the details of any drivers involved in the accident. Include their names, contact details, driver’s licence numbers, vehicle registration numbers as well as make and model, plus the name of their insurance company if possible.

5. Record the names and contact details of any witnesses.

6. For insurance purposes, record the location, date and time of the accident. Draw a basic diagram showing the position of vehicles on the road and the location of damage on each vehicle, as well as noting weather conditions.

7. Notify police on 000 if:
–          Another driver refuses to stop or refuses to exchange details
–          Another driver appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs
–          There is damage to property, or a parked car with no owner present
–          Any vehicle involved needs to be towed away.

8. Don’t admit fault – just state the facts. Under no circumstances should you admit liability to any third party. You should state the facts of the accident in any statements and/or claim forms, but the law does not require you to admit fault. Admission of liability may result in your insurance claim being denied. It is not necessary to insist others are at fault either.

9. If your vehicle is roadworthy and can be driven, check steering, brakes, lights, oil and water before driving away. If your vehicle cannot be driven, request that the tow truck driver takes your car to Sheen Panel Service Bulleen, the smash repair Alliance Partner of Master Builders. Do not sign the towing docket unless it shows your instructions for the destination address.

10. Contact Michael from Sheen Panel Service Bulleen on (03) 9852 1511 (or 0418 835 025 if the accident has occurred after hours). Michael will provide free advice and personalised assistance as well as a courtesy car. He can manage the entire insurance claim process for you (regardless of which insurance company you use) and will arrange for your vehicle to be repaired as soon as possible.

Accidents can be frightening, and coordinating vehicle repairs can be problematic. But members of Master Builders can rest assured that the inconvenience will be minimised with personalised service provided by Sheen Panel Service Bulleen.

Disclaimer: While all reasonable skill and care has been taken in the preparation of this article, it should not be construed or relied upon as a substitute for legal advice. No warranty or liability is accepted by SPSBUL Pty Ltd (ABN 92 592 141 413), its shareholders, directors, employees or other affiliated companies, for any statement, error or omission.