NSW Police have announced sweeping changes for the way traffic crashes are reported.
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The changes will be implemented on October 15. Here's what you need to know:
Drivers involved in traffic crashes where their vehicle needs to be towed - where no one is injured, all parties exchange particulars and no one is under the influence of drugs/alcohol - can now organise their own tow and leave the area, and later report the crash to the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
In addition, drivers will no longer need to report minor collisions to police, even for insurance purposes.
Police will need to be called to attend and investigate crashes that fall into the below criteria:
1. Where a person is killed or injured;
2. Parties fail to exchange particulars;
3. A driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Police will also attend to direct traffic and deal with hazards or debris on the road, as well as assist with the tow of heavy vehicles.
Currently they attend and investigate where a person is killed or injured; parties fail to exchange particulars; a driver is under the influence; or, a vehicle involved requires towing from the scene.
From October 15, in such instances if a vehicle requires towing from the scene and no-one is injured or under the influence and all parties exchange details:
Motorists should organise their own tow and have their vehicle removed from the scene as quickly and safely as possible. Once this has occurred they should report the crash to the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
Reports of ‘minor’ traffic crashes –where vehicles do not require towing - will no longer require a police record to be made. Police event numbers will no longer be issued for these incidents.
Education campaign:
NSW Police will provide information about the changes to come into effect on a variety of platforms prior to the October 15 commencement date. These will include:
• Media releases and press conferences to highlight the changes.
• Social media posts - Facebook and Twitter - throughout September and October, with messaging outlining the changes to come into effect.
• Radio advertising, to commence in October to lead into the start date.
• Detailed information on the NSW Police Force website.
• Motorists will also be sent information in their registration renewals, including a ‘flowchart’ with step-by-step instructions on what to do in a crash, which can be kept in your glove box.
For further detailed information, visit www.police.nsw.gov.au/community_issues/road_safety