Car insurance claims

The Mozo Motor Accident Insurance Checklist is here to help.

On the scene

1. Make sure everyone is safe, and uninjured. Call an ambulance if necessary.

2. Exchange details, including:

• name, address and phone number
• licence and registration
• insurance companies

3. Don't exchange:

• opinions on responsibility for the accident

4. Note down:

• the time, date and address (with nearest cross-street) of the accident
• the make and model of any cars involved
• the condition of any vehicles involved

5. Call the police if:

• someone is injured
• someone doesn't stop or exchange details
• a vehicle has to be towed
• there's damage to property
• a driver appears to be intoxicated

6. Collect witness details, including police, even in the event of a minor accident.

Later that day

1. Report accident to police if not called to scene. Get a copy of the accident report.

2. Call your auto insurer if your car needs repairs. Unless your car had to be towed, you'll either need to:

• take your car to an approved repairer, or
• get two quotes for repairs

3. Naturally, you already know the intimate details of your policy coverage, but now's the time to refresh yourself anyway, including:

• rental car cover (if necessary)
• if you're covered for the particulars of your accident

4. Write down details of the accident, including:

• weather conditions, road surface, visibility, traffic conditions and street signs (speed limit, etc)
• a diagram of the accident. in the event of a serious accident or injury, return to the scene to take photos of any skid marks, signs, etc

Later in the claims process

1. Document any related expenses:

• medical, lost wages, property damage

2. If your claim is rejected: you can ask your car insurer to review your case.

3. If you can't resolve your claim to your satisfaction, contact the Insurance Ombudsman Service on 1300 780 808 or go to insuranceombudsman.com.au.