With a large increase in motorists during public holidays, we'd like to take this opportunity to encourage you to be extra careful on the roads.
Each year our insurers see an increase in claims for collisions over public holidays. In fact, over the last five years claims for the Easter holiday period have spiked by around 10% compared to the weekly average for the rest of the year. Last year was particularly bad with collision claims over Easter about 19% higher than the weekly average.
Being in an accident, even if minor, is distressing and drivers don't always know what to do.
The number one priority is the safety of those involved and making sure no one is injured and calling for help if needed.
We encourage those who are able, and it's safe to do so, to take photos at the incident scene of their vehicle. This will help with any dispute over liability. It's helpful to:
- Obtain images of the other vehicles' registration plate just in case you forget to obtain details at the time of the incident
- Take photos of where the damage has occurred or where the impact happened on your vehicle
- Take photos of the road and weather conditions at the time
- Obtain the details of any independent witnesses and those of the other driver including name, phone number, registration plate and insurance provider.
AMP's General Insurance motor guide has some handy information on what to do in an accident. In the meantime, safe travels and please get in touch if you have any questions.