An accident while towing is disorienting in a way a solo-car accident isn't — there's more to check (is the caravan still attached properly, has it jack-knifed, is it blocking a lane), and often more parties and more damage to document. Having the sequence clear in advance means you're not figuring it out for the first time while shaken up.
Immediate safety first
Check everyone for injuries before anything else. If anyone is injured, or the road is blocked, call 000 immediately. Move to a safe position off the traffic lane if the vehicles are driveable and it's safe to do so — hazards on, everyone clear of traffic, warning triangle out if you have one and it's safe to place it.
What to check on a towing rig specifically
Beyond the usual — check the hitch and safety chains are still properly connected before moving the vehicle again, even a short distance. A caravan that's been struck or has jack-knifed can look fine from a distance but have a compromised coupling. If there's any doubt at all, don't tow it further — wait for assistance.
What to record at the scene
- Photos of all vehicles, from multiple angles, including number plates
- Photos of the road position, any skid marks, and relevant road signs or conditions
- The other driver's name, licence number, registration and insurance details
- Names and contact details of any witnesses — they may not still be there if you wait
- The time, location and a note of what happened while it's fresh, even a voice memo on your phone
Do you have to call police?
Requirements vary by state, but generally you must report to police if anyone is injured, if a vehicle needs to be towed, or if there's a dispute about fault — check the specific threshold for the state you're in. When in doubt, reporting is the safer choice; it creates an official record that can matter later for insurance.
The insurance claim
Contact your insurer as soon as practical — most policies have notification time limits, and delays can complicate a claim. Have your policy number, the other party's details, and your photos ready. Be factual describing what happened; avoid admitting fault at the scene even if you feel responsible, since fault is often more complicated than it first appears once all details are considered.
After the immediate aftermath
Get the rig properly inspected before towing it any real distance again, even if it looks driveable — hidden chassis or coupling damage isn't always visible. If you're mid-trip, factor in that repairs and claims processing can take time; know your insurer's process for a replacement or loan vehicle if that's relevant to your policy.
Post-accident checklist
- Check for injuries, call 000 if anyone is hurt or the road is blocked
- Move to safety if driveable and safe to do so, hazards on
- Check the hitch and coupling before towing again, even a short distance
- Photograph everything — vehicles, plates, road position, conditions
- Exchange details, note witnesses, report to police if required
- Contact your insurer promptly with everything you've recorded
FAQ
Do I need to report a minor scrape to police?
Depends on the state's threshold — check current requirements, but if there's any injury, towing required, or dispute about fault, reporting is generally required or strongly advisable regardless.
Should I admit fault at the scene to keep things simple?
No — stick to factual details. Fault determination is your insurer's and, if needed, police's job, and an on-the-spot admission can complicate a claim that might otherwise have gone in your favour.
Sources
Reviewed 22 September 2026. Reporting requirements and insurance processes vary by state and provider — check current requirements for where the accident occurs and your specific policy.