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When should I contact the police after a car accident?

This article is for Marshmallow policyholders who’ve been in an accident and need guidance on involving the police.

Updated over 2 weeks ago

Do I always need to contact the police?

No, you only need to contact the police in certain situations. However, you must stop at the scene of any accident that involves injury, damage to vehicles or property, or harm to animals. Failing to stop is a legal offence.


Situations where you should contact the police

You must contact the police if:

  • Someone is injured in the accident.

  • You hit an unoccupied vehicle or property and cannot provide your details directly to the owner.

  • The other driver won’t give you their details.

  • The other driver leaves the scene without stopping (this is known as ‘fleeing the scene’).

  • You suspect the other driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  • You believe the other driver is uninsured.

You should report these incidents to the police within 24 hours of the accident.


What do I need from the police?

If you contact the police, make sure to:

  • Get a crime reference number (if a crime like fleeing the scene or uninsured driving is involved).

  • Get an incident number (if the police attended but no crime was recorded).

  • Share these details with us when you report your claim.


What if the other driver is uninsured?

If the other driver doesn’t have insurance:

  • We’ll still handle your claim if you’re not at fault.

  • Your No Claims Discount (NCD) will not be affected.

  • We’ll refund your excess once we confirm the other driver is uninsured and the accident wasn’t your fault.

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