Involved in a traffic crash for the first time? You may question whether you need to lodge a report at a police station (or use the online form) and the time limit to submit a traffic crash report. After all, there can be legal consequences for failure to meet the requirements.
- Queensland road rules require drivers to report a motor vehicle accident within specified time frames.
- The requirement to lodge a police report depends on the circumstances and outcomes of the crash.
Our comprehensive guide to traffic crash reporting explains all the essential details, including the conditions for seeking compensation after a crash occurs on Queensland roads.
QLD Traffic Crash Report Laws
Sections 287 of the Queensland Road Rules and 92 of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 explain that traffic crashes with over $2,500 in property damage must be reported to the police within 24 hours.
- While not all car accidents need to be reported to the police, a report is required in certain circumstances.
- Failing to report an accident when required is an offence in Queensland.
- An official police report is often vital evidence for an insurance claim.
- Even if the accident does not meet legal requirements for a police report, many insurance companies require one to process a claim. They often retrieve crash details when assessing a case.
Free Consultation for Traffic Crash Claims
If you have been injured in a traffic crash that wasn’t your fault, Splatt Lawyers provides a free case review to explain your rights and compensation eligibility.
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What is a Police Report for a Traffic Crash?
A police report is a detailed document prepared by law enforcement that records the specifics of a traffic crash. This report is an unbiased summary of the incident that contains the following:
- Vehicle registration numbers
- Personal details of the people involved in the crash
- Descriptions of damaged property
- Suspected road rule violations
The report may also note the presence of witnesses and other information that helps understand how the accident occurred.
Police reports can range from a short one-page summary to a comprehensive multi-page document, depending on the severity and complexity of the crash.
- A police report is often used when assessing insurance claims, as insurers often require a police event number to process claims.
- This document can also help identify any suspects and determine fault for a crash.
- You should keep a record of your reference number for future insurance claims and police assistance.
When Must You Report an Accident to the Police?
- Reporting is mandatory if any driver involved appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- If a driving offence is committed.
- Lodge a report if there is property damage and you can’t provide your contact details.
- Drivers must file a police report if injuries occur, someone dies, or a motor vehicle requires a tow truck to be removed from the scene.
Do you have to report a minor accident to police?
Minor crashes do not need police contact in these circumstances:
- No injuries or fatalities occurred
- No vehicle needed a tow truck
- Drivers exchanged details
- No one driving offences were committed
What is the maximum penalty for failing to report a crash?
Failure to report a crash (when required) can lead to significant penalties, including:
- Up to 20 penalty units or one year in prison for standard accidents
- 120 penalty units and three years in jail for callous disregard
- A mandatory prison sentence for serious driving offences
Which crashes require police attendance?
Police attendance is not required for all crashes, but it is required for investigations involving injury, adverse driver’s licences, serious driving offences, stolen vehicles, hit-and-run incidents, and careless driving on ‘P’ plates.
How Long Do You Have to Report a Crash?
If the police did not attend the scene, you must report the crash as soon as possible, usually within 24 hours, except for exceptional circumstances.
NOTE: Immediately call the police if someone is injured or dies.
How Do I Lodge a Police Report?
- Lodge a police report within 24 hours if not done at the scene.
- Make a report by visiting a police station or by calling the police assistance line.
Do I need to visit a police station?
- You can lodge a police report without visiting a police station
- You can make a report online by completing the online form
- If you are at the scene of the crash and require police assistance, call 131 444
- In an emergency, dial 000, including if someone has a serious injury
Do I need to exchange details after a car accident?
In Queensland, exchanging information with the other involved parties in a car accident is mandatory. These details include the following:
- Names, addresses and driver’s licence details
- Vehicle registration numbers
- Details of passengers, including date of birth
Penalties apply for leaving the scene of the crash without exchanging details.
What information is contained in a police report?
A police report is a document written by a police officer that contains the specifics of the accident.
Insurers will require a police event number when a report is filed. Reports typically include the following information:
- Car registration numbers
- The names of the people involved in the collision and the vehicle owners
- Date and location of the crash scene, and further information
What if the other driver has a serious injury?
- Failing to stop and assist injured people in a car accident is an offence.
- You should seek legal advice if someone is killed or injured in a car accident before making a statement to the police.
Injuries after a car accident
Seek medical attention after a road accident, even without immediate symptoms, as some injuries show up later.
Verywellhealth notes that some soft-tissue injuries may take 24 to 48 hours to manifest after an accident, with some taking 72 hours (for example, whiplash injuries).
What if I'm the Injured Person in a Motor Vehicle Accident?
- A police report can establish a connection between the accident and any subsequent injuries.
- Queensland imposes strict time limits for lodging a CTP claim following an accident, ranging from one to threee months, depending on the type of claim and whether you consult with a lawyer.
- But you have up to 3 years to claim common law damages.
- Compulsory third-party insurance covers compensation for injuries caused by negligent driving.
Qualified car accident lawyers understand the claim process and can advise you of your rights.