New traffic crash reporting requirements in NSW - start tomorrow

[JV911]

NSW Police are reminding motorists of the upcoming changes to the way traffic crashes are reported in NSW.

From tomorrow (Wednesday 15 October 2014), police will only be required to attend and investigate crashes if they meet one or more of three criteria:
1. Where a person is killed or injured;
2. Parties fail to exchange particulars;
3. A driver appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
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.
The new streamlined process is part of a red-tape reduction initiative to better manage crashes on NSW roads. An education campaign – involving media, online, radio advertisements and social media messaging – has been notifying the public of the upcoming changes.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner John Hartley, said the changes will result in a more streamlined process.
“The changes are aimed at improving the safety of motorists, who in tow-only crashes will now be able to move off the road faster rather than waiting for police, minimising the likelihood of a secondary impact.
“This will ultimately see a reduction in blocked lanes and rubber-necking, and will mean roads will be cleared quickly and more efficiently.
“Police resources will also be better utilised and can now be diverted into broader road safety initiatives and other investigations.
“With the changes effective from midnight, we are strongly urging all motorists to go online to our website and learn what to do in a crash situation – and download an informative ‘flow-chart’ flyer.
“Police will no longer be required to attend tow-only crashes and will not take reports of minor collisions. If motorists have concerns or are in doubt of what to do, they should call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency or the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 for information,” Assistant Commissioner Hartley said.
Key changes:
* From Wednesday 15 October 2014, 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 appears to be 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.
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.
NB. If motorists exhaust all other options to have their vehicles towed, the Police Assistance Line will be able to provide further guidance and assistance.
* Also, from Wednesday 15 October 2014, reports of ‘minor’ traffic crashes – where vehicles do not require towing – will no longer be recorded by police. 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