If you are standing beside a damaged car wondering whether you can drive it home, do not judge it only by whether the engine starts. A car can still move while damage to its steering, brakes, tyres, lights, fluids, airbags or structure makes it unsafe or unlawful to use. If anything feels or looks wrong, leave the vehicle somewhere safe and arrange an assessment or tow.

Your safety and the safety of other road users come first. This article provides general information only and is not mechanical or legal advice. Acorn Rentals cannot certify whether a damaged vehicle is roadworthy.

Is My Car Safe to Drive After an Accident?

Do not continue driving if you notice any sign that the vehicle may be unsafe, including:

• airbags have deployed or warning lights remain on;
• brakes feel different, pull to one side or make unusual noises;
• steering is heavy, off-centre, vibrating or difficult to control;
• a tyre is flat, cut, rubbing, displaced or sitting at an unusual angle;
• fluid is leaking, or there is smoke, steam or a fuel smell;
• headlights, brake lights, indicators or mirrors are damaged;
• the bonnet, boot or a door cannot close securely;
• windows are shattered or visibility is obstructed;
• bodywork or underbody parts are loose or touching the road; or
• the vehicle makes a new grinding, scraping or knocking sound.
  

Acorn’s accident replacement vehicle FAQs provide a short checklist for drivers whose car is not legally drivable. This guide explains the next steps in more detail. If you are unsure, treat the car as not drivable until a qualified repairer or roadside-assistance professional checks it.

Damage That May Not Be Obvious

Even a low-speed collision can affect parts behind a bumper or wheel. Alignment, suspension, sensors, cooling systems and crumple structures may be damaged without an obvious external sign. An impact can also affect airbags and seat-belt pretensioners when the panels still look repairable.

Transport Victoria’s roadworthiness guidance explains that owners are responsible for keeping their vehicle safe and roadworthy. Because a roadside check cannot rule out hidden damage, arrange a professional assessment when an impact involved a wheel, suspension area, vehicle structure, airbag deployment, leaking fluid or a strong jolt.

Move to Safety Only If It Is Safe to Do So

At the scene, the car may be creating a hazard. If nobody is injured, police or emergency personnel may direct you to move it. Only do so when the vehicle appears controllable and the short movement can be completed without creating more danger.

Moving out of a live traffic lane is different from driving home or to a repairer. If the car cannot be moved safely, switch on the hazard lights if possible, move people to a protected location and contact emergency or towing assistance.

Service NSW’s traffic-crash reporting guidance notes that some crashes involving a vehicle that had to be towed should be reported. Follow the current rules for the state or territory where the collision occurred.

When to Arrange a Tow or Inspection

Arrange a tow when driving may put safety at risk, the vehicle is blocking traffic or a qualified person recommends it. Use a licensed or accredited operator where required, confirm the destination before signing a towing authority, and keep the authority, invoice and destination details.

NSW roadworthiness guidance says a registered vehicle must be suitable for safe use and notes that an unsafe vehicle may receive a Defect Notice. Once the car reaches a repairer, ask for a written assessment and estimate. Acorn’s guide to smash repairs explains the usual assessment and repair stages.

What to Record Before the Vehicle Is Moved

If it is safe and does not delay emergency assistance, take photographs before the vehicles are moved:

• wide views showing the road, lanes and final vehicle positions;
• damage to every vehicle and any debris or fluid;
• number plates, signs, signals and road markings;
• tyres, wheels, lights, windows and panels on your vehicle; and
• the tow truck, towing authority and repair destination.

Also exchange details and collect witness contacts. Acorn’s accident information checklist can help you create a clear record for the repairer, insurer or accident replacement vehicle application.

Can You Get a Replacement Vehicle If Your Car Is Not Drivable?

If you may be the not-at-fault driver, the other driver can be identified and your vehicle is not legally drivable, you may be eligible for an accident replacement vehicle before repairs begin. Acorn will review the application, available evidence, vehicle requirements and availability. Approval and terms apply.

If your car remains drivable but is booked for repairs later, you may be able to arrange a replacement for the repair period in advance. Acorn’s accident replacement vehicle page explains how the service works and the vehicle options available. If you are in Sydney, Acorn’s Sydney accident car hire page explains the local replacement-vehicle service.

Driving After an Accident FAQs

Can I drive home if the damage looks minor?

Appearance alone is not enough. Check the steering, brakes, tyres, lights, visibility, fluids and warning systems. If anything is uncertain, arrange an inspection or tow instead of driving.

Does a car need towing if an airbag deployed?

Airbag deployment indicates a significant safety-system event. Do not assume the vehicle is safe to drive. Have it assessed and follow advice from emergency personnel, your insurer, a repairer or a tow provider.

What if the car drives but a light is broken?

Required lights and indicators form part of a vehicle’s roadworthiness. A broken lamp may make the car unsafe or unlawful to use, particularly at night or in poor visibility. Seek an assessment before continuing.

How do I stay mobile while the car is off the road?

If you may be the not-at-fault driver and the other driver can be identified, you can check whether you are eligible for an accident replacement vehicle. Acorn will assess the application, evidence, vehicle requirements and terms; approval is not automatic.

Need to Stay Mobile While Your Car Is Off the Road?

If you may be the not-at-fault driver and the other driver can be identified, Acorn can check whether you are eligible for an accident replacement vehicle while your car is assessed or repaired. Apply online or call 1300 22 67 67. Approval and terms apply.