Liverpool and Macarthur motorists should mark October 15 in their calendars as NSW Police issue a reminder of the changes to reporting traffic crashes which come into effect from that date.
The new streamlined process starts on Wednesday, October 15 as part of a red-tape reduction initiative to better manage crashes on NSW roads.
From that date, police will only be required to attend and investigate crashes if it meets one or more of three criteria:
- Where a person is killed or injured;
- Parties fail to exchange particulars;
- A driver appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Therefore, drivers involved in traffic crashes where their vehicle needs to be towed – and none of the above criteria apply – 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.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner John Hartley, urged motorists to become familiar with the new streamlined process.
“With only three weeks to go until the new reporting criteria come into effect, it is important for motorists to know whether or not they need to wait for police at a crash site,” Assistant Commissioner Hartley said.
“These changes are intended to make our roads safer and reduce the impact of a crash on road users, particularly the amount of time vehicles are left blocking the roadway.
“By allowing drivers involved in tow-away only crashes to safely make their way off the road to exchange details and organise their tow, we should see a reduction in traffic delays caused by blocked lanes.
“It will also reduce the risk of secondary impact and possible injury to those waiting at the roadside or to another road user.
“In addition, police will be able to re-allocate resources to focus on proactive road safety initiatives, targeted operations and other investigations,” Assistant Commissioner Hartley said.
Reports of minor traffic crashes – where vehicles do not require towing – will no longer be recorded by police from October 15 onwards. Police event numbers will not be issued for these incidents.
A ‘flowchart’ with step-by-step instructions on what to do in a crash will be sent to motorists with registration renewals, which can be kept in the glove box.
For further detailed information, please visit: www.police.nsw.gov.au/community_issues/road_safety
