Been in an Accident? What To Do Next
Step by step guide for what to do after a car accident in New Zealand, including when and how to arrange towing.
Been in an Accident?
First: take a breath. Here's what to do, step by step.
Immediate Steps
1. Check for Injuries
People first. If anyone is injured, call 111 immediately.
2. Move to Safety
If possible and it's safe to do so, move vehicles off the road. If not, turn on hazard lights and stay in your vehicle if traffic is a risk.
3. Call Police If Needed
You must report to police if:
- Anyone is injured
- The other driver leaves without exchanging details
- You suspect the other driver is impaired
- There's significant property damage
4. Exchange Details
Get from the other driver:
- Name and contact details
- Insurance company and policy number
- Vehicle registration
- Driver licence number
5. Document Everything
Take photos of:
- All vehicles involved (all angles)
- The accident scene
- Any damage
- Road conditions
- Traffic signs nearby
Arranging Towing
If Your Car Can't Be Driven
Call us: 0800 422 055
We'll ask:
- Where are you? (Be specific - road name, nearest landmark)
- Is the road blocked?
- What kind of vehicle?
- Where do you want it taken?
Insurance Towing
Many insurance policies cover towing. We work with all major insurers. You can either:
- Call us and claim back from insurance later
- Have your insurer arrange it through us
What Happens to Your Car
We'll take it to:
- Your preferred panel beater
- An insurance assessor's yard
- Your home (if it's just needs minor work)
- Wherever you need it
Our Role
We handle the vehicle side so you can deal with everything else. One call, problem sorted.
Real Example: State Highway Multi-Vehicle
Three-car accident on State Highway 1 near Hamilton during evening rush hour. One car in ditch, two blocking lane. Police on scene but needed vehicles cleared quickly.
Dispatched two trucks simultaneously. First on scene in 15 minutes. Coordinated with police for safe access. All three vehicles removed within 40 minutes.
Highway fully reopened, all vehicles secured at our yard for insurance assessment. Drivers transported to where they needed to go.