You’re out making deliveries—everything’s running on schedule—then, suddenly, it happens… A sharp impact, a sudden jolt, and the realisation hits that you’ve just been in a motor vehicle accident.
It’s a situation no courier wants to be in. But knowing exactly what to do after a motor vehicle accident can make a meaningful difference, not just for your safety, but for your claim, and your peace of mind.
We’ve put together this step-by-step guide for Australian delivery drivers who experience a motor vehicle accident while working. It covers what you need to do at the scene, what to document, who to contact, and how to protect yourself legally and financially.
Step 1: Check for injuries and stay safe
Your safety, and the safety of others, is the top priority. So first, take a moment to check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Then check on the occupants of any other vehicles involved. If anyone is hurt or appears to be in shock, call 000 immediately and request medical assistance.
If the accident is minor and it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic to reduce the risk of further collisions. Turn on your hazard lights. And if you have safety cones or a warning triangle, set them up to alert oncoming drivers.
Crucial point to remember: Never leave the scene of an accident, even if it seems minor. In Australia, it’s the law to stop and exchange details after a crash. If you don’t, you could face fines, legal issues and even have your insurance claim denied. It’s just not worth the risk.
Step 2: Exchange details with the other party
Once everyone is safe and accounted for, exchange these details with the other driver(s):
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s licence number
- Registration number and vehicle details
- Insurance provider
- Time, date and location of the accident
Avoid discussing who was at fault or getting into arguments at the scene. It’s easy to say the wrong thing under stress. Even a casual comment could be used against you later. Stick to the facts, exchange details calmly, and let your insurer or broker handle fault and liability. That’s what they’re there for.
Step 3: Collect evidence at the scene
Accurate documentation will help your insurer process the claim quickly and fairly. Use your phone to capture:
- Photos of all vehicles involved, including number plates, damage and the surrounding area.
- Photos of road signs, traffic lights, skid marks or weather conditions.
- A short video overview, if you can, walking through the scene.
- Witness contact details (if any).
If police attend the scene, be sure to get the police report number and the name/badge number of the officer in charge. Having these details makes it easier to access the report later, verify the facts, and resolve any disputes about what happened. It also shows your insurer you’ve followed proper procedure, which helps speed up your claim.
Step 4: Notify your employer (if applicable)
If you’re employed by a delivery company, contact your supervisor or fleet manager as soon as possible. Let them know what’s happened and provide any details they request.
If you’re an owner-driver or subcontractor, you’ll need to manage the process yourself. But it’s still worth letting any affected clients know if deliveries will be delayed.
Step 5: Contact your insurance broker or provider
Once things have settled, get in touch with your insurance broker or provider to report the accident. If you’re with GSK Insurance, we’ll carefully talk you through every step and let you know exactly what documents you’ll need to lodge your claim.
If you have commercial motor vehicle insurance, your insurer may ask for:
- A completed incident report or claim form
- Photos or videos showing the damage
- A police report (if one was filed)
- Repair quotes or assessment reports
Professional tip: Don’t wait too long to lodge your claim. The sooner you do, the sooner your repairs can get moving and your vehicle can get back on the road.
Step 6: Understand what you’re covered for
If you’re a courier or delivery driver, personal car insurance often isn’t enough. You’ll typically need commercial motor vehicle insurance, which covers you for accidents that happen while you’re working.
You may also want to check if your policy includes:
- Comprehensive car insurance to keep you on the road while your vehicle is being repaired.
- Goods in transit insurance to cover damaged parcels.
- Public liability insurance in case a third party is injured or their property is damaged.
- Income protection if you’re unable to work due to injury.
Not sure what you’re currently covered for? That’s where a broker like GSK can step in and help you make sense of your policy. Or find one that better suits the way you work.
Step 7: Keep records of everything
Accidents can be very stressful, and it’s easy to forget the finer details. That’s why it’s important to keep a record of:
- Any correspondence with your insurer or employer
- Your submitted claim documents
- Repair quotes and receipts
- Medical appointments (if injured)
These records may be needed later for insurance claims, legal matters or tax purposes.
Step 8: Don’t rush back too soon
It’s natural to want to get back to work as soon as possible, especially if you’re self-employed and every day off the road means lost income. But it’s important to take care of yourself first.
If you’ve been injured or are still feeling shaken, give yourself time to fully recover. Getting back behind the wheel too early could put your safety (and others’) at risk.
Still waiting on vehicle repairs? Check in with your insurer or broker; you may be eligible for a temporary vehicle hire under your commercial motor vehicle insurance policy. That way, you can ease back into work safely while staying covered.
Accidents happen — but with the right cover, you’re never alone
Knowing what to do after a motor vehicle accident is one thing. Making sure you’re properly protected is another. At GSK Insurance, we understand the unique risks couriers and delivery drivers face every day. And we’re here to help you through it.
Whether you need commercial motor vehicle insurance, goods in transit cover, or income protection, our brokers will walk you through your options and support you through the claims process from start to finish.
Talk to us today for expert advice and a tailored insurance solution that keeps your business moving, no matter what the road brings.
