Posted on August 11, 2025
Car accidents can be unsettling and chaotic. In the immediate aftermath, it may appear that no significant harm has been done. However, symptoms can emerge later, and failing to act promptly can result in long-term legal and health consequences.
In 2024, South Australia recorded 89 lives lost and 948 serious injuries on its roads, and as of August 2025, the situation remains concerning, with 47 fatalities and 461 serious injuries recorded. These figures serve as a reminder that even low-speed collisions can lead to lasting impacts on health, livelihood, and legal rights.
Understanding the appropriate steps to take after an accident is critical. This guide outlines practical actions for Adelaide drivers to help protect their wellbeing and preserve their ability to make a car accident claim.
Check for Injuries (Even Minor Ones)
Injuries such as whiplash, concussion, and soft tissue damage can take hours or days to appear. The body’s response to trauma can initially mask pain.
Seeking prompt medical attention is essential, not just for your recovery, but to document any injuries. A dated medical record can assist your car accident lawyer in establishing proof of injury. Ensure you provide all details of the accident and your injuries to your doctor and that thorough notes are recorded. You can also obtain a medical certificate to verify your attendance.
Exchange Information
Once the scene is secure and emergency services have been contacted (if required), collect the following details from all parties involved:
- Full name and contact details
- Vehicle registration number
- Licence number
- Insurance information (if available)
Remain courteous and factual. Avoid assigning blame or speculating about the cause. Any statements made at the scene can potentially be used in legal proceedings. It is common nowadays for people to film interactions on their phones. Keep this in mind when dealing with the third party as video evidence can be submitted into court.
Report the Accident
Under South Australian law, you are required to report a road crash to police if:
- Anyone is injured or killed
- A driver fails to stop or exchange information
- A vehicle must be towed from the scene
Reports can be submitted online via the SA Police crash reporting portal. If you are unsure whether to report the crash, it is safer to do so.
Document Everything
If it is safe, take photographs or videos of the vehicles, damage, road layout, signage, and any visible injuries. Capture a wide view of the scene, including skid marks and weather conditions.
Write down your account of the incident while the details are fresh in your memory. Collect contact information for any witnesses. In the following days, keep a record of your physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing. This documentation may support your claim.
Contact Your Insurer (Be Cautious with Details)
Notify your insurer about the accident as soon as practicable. Do not admit fault or provide speculative information.
If your insurer asks for a recorded statement or offers a settlement, speak with a legal representative first. Initial offers may not reflect the true value of your car accident claim.
Seek Legal Advice Early
Even if you are uncertain about lodging a claim, consulting a car accident lawyer in Adelaide at an early stage is strongly advised. A lawyer can explain your rights, evaluate your case, and help avoid critical mistakes.
At PMN Personal Injury Lawyers, we provide a free initial consultation so you can understand your position without financial pressure. Many clients delay seeking legal advice, only to find that key evidence has been lost or statutory time limits have passed. Early engagement can significantly improve your outcome.
Know Your Rights Around Compensation
You may be entitled to compensation if you were:
- Driving or travelling as a passenger in a vehicle
- A pedestrian or cyclist struck by a vehicle
- A close family member of someone who suffered a fatal injury
Strict time limits apply to personal injury claims in South Australia. Depending on your circumstances, you may need to act within three years or sooner. A lawyer can clarify what applies in your situation.
Quick Checklist: What to Do After a Crash in South Australia
Based on SA Police Guidance
- Stop immediately. It is a legal requirement to stop at the scene.
- Assist others. If safe to do so, offer assistance to anyone injured. Call 000 for emergencies or 131 444 for police support.
- Move your vehicle. If it is safe, move your vehicle off the road. Contact the Accident Towing Authority (8116 9209) or your insurer.
- Exchange details. Share and collect contact names, registration numbers, and licence details from all parties.
- Report the crash. If injuries occurred, vehicles were towed, or damage exceeds $3,000, report the incident to the police within 24 hours.
Additional Legal and Practical Steps
- Seek medical attention. Some injuries do not appear immediately. Visiting a doctor ensures your health is prioritised and injuries are documented.
- Document the scene. Take clear photographs of the vehicles, road conditions, signage, and any injuries. Note the time, location, and any witness contact information.
- Notify your insurer. Report the crash to your insurance provider, but avoid admitting fault or speculating on causes.
- Speak with a car accident lawyer in Adelaide. Early legal advice can help you understand your rights and protect your entitlement to compensation.
- Keep a recovery diary. Record how you feel physically and emotionally in the days following the crash. This can help support your car accident claim if symptoms emerge later.
Get Legal Support That Puts You First
PMN Personal Injury Lawyers understands the stress that can follow a road accident. Our experienced legal team has helped thousands of South Australians secure compensation under our no win, no fee model.
We offer practical, considered legal advice and operate from offices in Adelaide and Mount Gambier.
Call us on (08) 8212 3566 or contact us online to book your free consultation.
Car Accident Claim FAQs
You can still report the accident. You may be able to pursue compensation through the Nominal Defendant scheme. A lawyer can guide you through the process.
Yes. Even minor collisions can result in delayed injuries or complications. Early legal advice can help clarify your rights and improve your outcome.
Psychological injuries may be compensable under South Australian law. If your mental health has been affected by the accident and this is supported by medical evidence, a claim may be possible.
In most cases, a car accident claim must be lodged within three years of the date of injury. Certain exceptions may apply, so it is best to seek legal advice early to ensure you do not miss a deadline.
Yes. South Australian law recognises contributory negligence, which means you may still be entitled to compensation even if you were partly at fault. The amount awarded may be adjusted based on your degree of responsibility.