After the terrifying incident which occurred in Victoria recently, there has been more talk about what you are required to do when you are involved in a car accident.
In NSW, under the Road Transport Act 2013 it is an offence if you are driving and you fail to stop and assist after being involved in an impact which has caused injury or death. This could be impact with another vehicle, a person, or any other object. It also applies if a person is thrown from a vehicle.
Penalties for this offence are significant, with first time offences facing 18 months imprisonment and a $3,300.00 fine.
You can be found guilty of this offence, even if the accident was not your fault.
So what assistance are you required to give in these circumstances?
Well this depends on you and your capacity to render assistance. The Legislation states that you are to give the assistance which is in your power to give. At a very minimum you should to do the following:
1. Call “000” for an Ambulance and the Police; and
2. Make the scene safe for everyone which includes things like turning off the ignition of any vehicles involved in the crash and
applying hand brakes.
So what are you required to do if no one is injured?
Well things become much simpler. If the Police do not attend the scene of the accident, you are required to report the accident to the police within 24 hours, if you had to be towed, or there was damage of any kind.
Lastly it is important to note that after any accident, if you are asked to provide your details by another driver, you must provide them with:
1. Your name, address and Licence details;
2. Your Registration details; and
3. The name and address of the owner of the Vehicle (if it is not yours).
It is important that you adhere to the road rules as there can be some harsh penalties if you get caught doing the wrong thing on our roads.
If you require assistance with fines, traffic offences, or motor vehicle claims for personal injury, Everingham Solomons have the experience and expertise to assist you because Helping You is Our Business.
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