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Coming back to find your parked car damaged is never fun, but knowing how to respond correctly can save you time, money and stress.

Firstly, understand that getting upset is natural, but taking a deep breath will help you make better decisions. Examine your car thoroughly and document any visible damage, taking multiple photos from different angles, including close-ups of dents, scratches or broken parts, and capturing the surrounding area, such as road signs and markings, for context.

Next, see if you can locate the driver responsible. Sometimes, people leave a note with their contact information and insurance details. If there’s no note, look for witnesses nearby who may have seen what happened. You can also check for CCTV from nearby businesses, homes or on the street, as some areas have coverage. If you’re unsure, consider contacting the local council to find out whether cameras are in place that might have captured the accident.

If the driver didn’t leave a note, or if they did but are unresponsive or the information they provided seems incorrect, contact the police to report the accident and provide all the information you have, including photos, footage and witness statements. Be sure to request a copy of the police report, as it can be useful when dealing with insurance.

If you’re still having a hard time getting a hold of the at-fault driver and therefore cannot claim directly through their car insurer, it’s time to lodge a claim with your own insurance provider, if you have one. Provide them with as much information as possible, including the police report. From there, your insurer can determine whether your coverage, along with the information you have, will cover the damage to your car.

If your car insurer happens to find information about the at-fault driver and is able to have them lodge a claim so the costs of the damage are recoverable, you can contact Carbiz for a replacement car while your car is being repaired or until it’s been deemed a total loss. This ensures you’re not left without a car during this time, giving you peace of mind and the ability to keep your life moving.

If your car has been involved in an accident, you may hear the term “write-off” from your insurance company or repairer. But what does it actually mean when your car is declared a write-off? Understanding this process can help you make informed decisions about your car, repairs and costs.

A car is considered a write-off when the cost to repair it after an accident is too high compared to its market value. Insurance companies often calculate the repair cost and compare it to the car’s value prior to the accident. If the repair cost is more than a certain percentage of the car’s value, typically around 60–75%, the car may be classified as a write-off. This doesn’t always mean your car is completely destroyed; sometimes the car could technically be repaired, but the cost would outweigh the benefits.

There are different types of write-offs. A total loss write-off is when the car is so badly damaged that repairing it is not financially viable. A repairable write-off is when the car can be fixed, but it requires significant repairs. In either case, the insurance company will usually pay out the car’s value at the time of the accident, minus any applicable excess or deductions.

The cost implications of a write-off can vary. If your car is declared a write-off, you may need to consider the cost of replacing it with another car. Some car owners opt to keep a repairable write-off, but this comes with the added repair costs, which can be substantial depending on the extent of the damage. Repair costs can quickly add up, especially if the accident involved structural damage or expensive parts.

It’s also important to understand that a car that has been written off may have a lower resale value even after repairs. Future buyers often view written-off cars as higher risk, which can affect the cost of insurance and overall value.

If your car is declared a write-off after an accident, speak with your insurance provider to understand your options. You may receive a payout for the car’s value, and in some cases, you can negotiate repair costs or even retain the car if it is repairable. Knowing what a write-off means, how it affects repair costs, and how it impacts the car’s value can save you time, money and stress after an accident.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have completely changed how we use our mobile phones in the car. These systems let you access calls, messages, music and navigation using your car's touchscreen or voice control, making driving a lot easier and safer.

But if you're an L or P-plate driver, some Australian states have strict rules about what you can and can't do with these systems while you're driving. For new drivers and their parents, it's important to understand which laws apply where to avoid potentially hefty penalties. The potential penalties listed for each state and territory may have changed since this article was first published. Always check your state or territory government website for the most up-to-date information.

In NSW, L and P-platers are not allowed to use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto while driving. Even connecting your mobile phone through Bluetooth or a USB cable is not allowed, effectively ruling out mobile phone use entirely while driving as an L or P-plater.

If you're caught using your mobile phone in any of these ways, you could face a fine of $387 and 5 demerit points. If the offence occurs in a school zone, the fine increases to $514, and you could incur up to 10 demerit points, which is enough to lose your licence in one go.

There are some exemptions where L and P-plate drivers can legally use a mobile phone in the car in NSW. For example, you're allowed to use your mobile phone when the car is parked safely out of the line of traffic (the ignition does not need to be turned off).

You can also use your mobile phone if you need to show your digital driver licence when instructed by a police officer, or when making a payment or showing a voucher, but only in locations like a car park, driveway or drive-through, and only when the car is stationary.

In Victoria, the rules for L and P-plate drivers are a little more relaxed than in NSW. L and P-platers can have their phone connected to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but must not "scroll or enter information, use voice controls, use the device for text messages, social media, emails, websites or for video calls."

Because of these rules, it's a good idea to set up your favourite playlist and route on maps before you start driving, otherwise you may risk a $555 fine and 4 demerit points.

In Queensland, the rules around Apple CarPlay and Android Auto depend on your age and the type of provisional licence you hold.

For L and P1 licence holders under 25 years old, any mobile phone use while driving is prohibited, including hands-free kits, bluetooth accessories, wireless headsets and a phone's loudspeaker function.

If you're an L or P1 licence holder and use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto while driving, you're treated the same as if you were using your phone directly. The penalty is $1,161 and 4 demerit points.

For P2 licence holders, and P1 licence holders over 25, hands-free mobile phone use is allowed. This includes using a phone in a cradle attached to the car or connected to the car's system for tasks such as accepting calls, using navigation apps, skipping a song, or accepting or finishing a trip as a rideshare driver.

As with Queensland, the rules around Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in South Australia depend on the type of provisional licence you hold.

For L and P1 drivers, any use of Bluetooth or wired technology, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is prohibited. If you're caught, you could face a $573 fine and 3 demerit points, plus a Victims of Crime levy of $105 if you're 18 or over, or $20 if you're under 18.

On the other hand, P2 licence holders are allowed to use the features provided by Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the phone itself must never be looked at while driving.

In Western Australia, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can be used by all licence classes, including L and P-plate drivers. However, there are strict rules about how you interact with your phone while driving.

Drivers can only use a mobile phone to make or receive a voice call if the phone is secured in a mounting or the driver doesn't hold or touch the phone while making the call. Drivers who make a call or touch their phone outside these conditions can face a $500 fine and 3 demerit points. If you're caught creating, sending, or looking at a text, email, social media post, photo, video or similar, the penalty increases to $1,000.

Similarly to NSW, L and P-plate drivers in the Northern Territory are not allowed to use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto while driving. Even connecting your mobile phone through Bluetooth or a USB cable is not allowed, effectively ruling out mobile phone use entirely while driving as an L or P-plater.

If you're caught using your mobile phone in any of these ways, you could face a fine of $500 and 3 demerit points.

The only exemption is if the car is stationary and located somewhere other than a marked lane or line of traffic on the road. In this case, L and P-plate drivers are allowed to use their mobile phones.

In Tasmania, L and P1 drivers are not allowed to use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto while driving. However, playing music or using GPS is allowed, as long as the phone is set up before you start driving and you do not interact with it in any way while on the road. Drivers who fail to follow these rules can face a $390 fine and 3 demerit points.

P2 drivers have more flexibility and are permitted to use their mobile phone in hands-free or speaker mode.

Similarly to Tasmania, L and P-plate drivers in the ACT are not allowed to use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto while driving. However, playing music or using GPS is allowed, as long as the phone is set up before you start driving and you do not interact with it in any way while on the road. Drivers who fail to follow these rules can face a $514 fine and 3 demerit points.

In the past century, few nations have suffered more than the people of Ukraine. During the Second World War, the country, including its capital, were ravaged by the forces of Nazism. 2,000 mass graves of Ukrainian Jews remain throughout the country as evidence of a barbaric and shameful past.

Aside from the devastation caused by invasion, we remember the millions of Ukrainians who died in the famine imposed on Ukraine in the 1930s through the Stalinist policies directed against the peasantry from the Kremlin. This is one of the great crimes of modern history and is so often forgotten.

With this bloody history in mind, today we watch with anguish and despair as the people of Ukraine are invaded once more. Once again, we see needless suffering from policies directed from Moscow. Ukraine is facing loss of life, the prospect of loss of land, and loss of freedom.

Ukraine is a sovereign state and its people have the absolute right to determine whether their future lies in closer ties with Europe and the US or with Russia. The Russian Federation has sought to justify the military conquest of another state’s territory on the basis that they are protecting inhabitants of the same ethnicity allegedly suffering persecution. The use of this narrative as a pretext for invasion has a dark and sinister history.

It is difficult to comprehend how such acts could even be contemplated by the Russian Federation, which has itself suffered so greatly and sacrificed so immensely in the struggle against foreign invaders. Russia's history is of finishing wars not beginning them, protecting their land and their people against the tyrannical aspirations of would-be conquerors. This is a glorious history of which the Russian people are justifiably proud. Yet today, Russia is the aggressor and its actions violate the most basic norms of international law and breach international peace and security.

We also watch with admiration as Ukraine’s president, Volodymr Zelensky demonstrates the very best of Ukraine and of leadership. His refusal to allow his nation to be consumed by a great military power, his refusal to evacuate himself and his family despite credible reports of assassination plots, his willingness to place himself on the frontlines to bolster the moral of his forces and his people, are truly inspiring. President Zelensky’s Jewish background show the new tolerance and diversity of Ukraine and its reconciliation with a troubled and complex past. President Zelensky has been lauded as the new leader of the free world, and he inspires us all to stand tall in the face of overwhelming force, to remain close to one’s people, to be guided by principle and integrity, and to fight with courage.

We hope that this war comes to an immediate and lasting end. We hope that a ceasefire can take effect to protect civilian life and infrastructure. And we hope that fruitful negotiations are commenced and successfully completed. We deplore the bloodshed and suffering needlessly imposed on the Ukrainian people. And we extend our solidarity to Ukraine and its people throughout the world during this most difficult time.

So you've got a partner, a dog, two point five kids, a good job, solar panels on the roof, and need a reliable modern car. Without any fault of your own, your pride and joy big SUV has just been centre-punched by some red light runner.

So what comes next? You have a choice of rental car, to be paid for by the at fault drivers insurance provider. Obviously something in the same class. What do you choose? Something like a seven seat Toyota Kluger? Save the day the Carbiz way!

The Toyota Kluger hybrid? Lets have a look at it. First off, its a very utilitarian efficient vehicle, that does not stand out. But you know it has the legendary Toyota reliability and toughness. You are not trying to impress the neighbours, you just want comfortable reliable transport that is non-polluting, quiet and comfortable, and has all the electronic bells and whistles that will keep the kids amused.

The Kluger sits midway between the smaller Toyota cars, and the very popular rugged Land Cruiser models. It is notably quiet to drive, and just feels so smooth and easy to drive. You sit higher than in a regular small car, which is very nice in heavy traffic conditions.

Much of the time in traffic it will be running on its electric motor, but you have no worries about range as in an all-electric car. The Toyota's hi-tech 2.5 litre 4 cylinder petrol engine will kick in as required, either to supply extra power when needed, or to charge the battery in continuous slow traffic. The absolute best of both. You are not trying to make a statement, as in buying a pure electric which might run short of power just when the kids need to be somewhere, like half an hour ago.

Safety is top class, with seven airbags, and an array of semi-autonomous safety functions that virtually take control of the car if it detects an object like a cyclist, or strays from its lane. With its detection systems, it almost has a spatial aura all around it that enables it to escape if that space is violated.

Plenty of cargo space for junk, rides well, not at all harsh, ticks all the boxes really. Resale value is not an issue. Perfect!

And if after a taste you decide that an outback holiday adventure sounds like a good idea, you're ready. I know of people who have driven their Kluger to Birdsville on a camping trip. It rode the stoney roads very well, allowed zero ingress of dust, and came home ready to do it again. While the Land Cruisers might be the true outback tool for the Simpson Desert, the Kluger is extremely capable of handling the outback's formed roads without feeling that it is being stretched or tested. But check the contract fine print before heading off!

And once home you CAN impress the neighbours by leaving it dust covered for a few days. It is almost de rigueur for a Kluger to flag that it has been to the outback.

Carbiz is leading the industry with an ever-growing fleet of green vehicles both Hybrid and Electric. Being not at fault in a car accident means you are entitled for a replacement car just like yours at no cost to you.

The Tesla brand name has become synonymous with electric cars. Every new electric car that is announced by any of the big brand names, like Volkswagen, BMW, Porsche and Volvo, - is compared to the Tesla. So the company has a clear lead that it is determined to keep. Recent reports from California, - which is the home of American electric cars, - confirm a sales surge for Tesla. Tesla's one asset that its electric competitors don't have, is its eccentric billionaire creator, Elon Musk. So Tesla is always guaranteed attention-grabbing publicity. Musk is to Tesla as Bill Gates is to Microsoft.

The Model 3 might be considered the basic entry version. It is certainly the most popular. It is also the smallest by a whisker in dimensions. It is really a two seater sports car that can carry two passengers in the somewhat cramped rear quarters, and can be optioned with most of the bells and whistles that its bigger brothers have.

There is an incredible array of options available. The basic Model 3 is rear wheel drive, but there is an option for all wheel drive. Tesla uses a unique design electric motor, and torque is digitally directed to the front and rear axles with the object of the best stability and traction control in the AWD model.

Performance is dramatic, with an 0-100km run time of as low 3.3 seconds for the hi-performance AWD version. Range varies greatly, depending on terrain and driving style. WLTP rates the Model 3 a maximum range of 570 kilometres the Long Range Model 3. Real world range whilst is a bit lower, a charging point is on every corner.

Safety is of a high standard. Its aluminium and steel structure has passed all accepted formal tests with five start ratings.

So how does it go on the road? The model 3 acquits itself very well. Obviously its rocket-like acceleration is its forte, but for all that the Model 3 is probably the best all round Tesla choice. And it is the only Tesla model to feature track mode. Which is pretty much what it suggests. The dynamic computer systems assess what the driver is asking, and direct torque to (or brake) the wheels that will most assist in achieving the best cornering angle and times. The computers also change the regenerative braking system to maximum resistance and charge, something that is likely to be uncomfortable in the highway mode. It also has cameras to record your lap activity including a G meter to measure cornering force.

The Tesla Model 3 really is in a different league. You can see its camera images on your phone, and control its movements. In the USA it can warn pedestrians in a robotic voice, who stray too close. New features like these are released in the US first and filter throughout the world.

Sales in Australia of the Tesla Model 3 sales have been increasing dramatically, with an estimated 5000+ sold during the first six months of 2021. Which was up 170% from the previous period.

While the much more expensive upmarket Teslas catch the imagination, a recent price drop makes the Model 3 a very attractive choice when compared with its less powerful but more expensive rivals.

The Tesla model 3 is the middle-of-the-road affordable, cutting edge technology, car of the future. Here now. But for those of us who have enthusiasm for old technology classic cars, it might be a bridge too far. It is totally impossible to argue with the Tesla's practicality, efficiency, and fulfilling of a market need.

Carbiz Accident Replacement Vehicles has the largest fleet of replacement Tesla’s in Australia and growing quickly. If you are not at fault in a car accident in your Tesla make sure you ask for a Carbiz Tesla replacement.

There are a couple of things you should never ever do after a car accident - even if you were not at fault.

1. Leave your car on the road

   If you’re unable to drive your car - due to injury or due to damage - then it’s best to put up a triangle to warn other drivers as well as to put on your hazards. However, it’s important to not leave your car on the road if you are able to move out of the way of other cars.

2. Flee the scene

   No matter how big the accident is, you are legally obligated to stay at the scene and exchange details. It's illegal to flee the scene and you will face charges. You need to share your registration details, insurance details and contact information - even for the minor accidents that happen in shop parking areas.

3. Interfere with the accident scene

   Accidents that result in serious injury or death become crime scenes - tampering or moving anything around the accident scene is illegal. Removing debris or moving anything around is considered as tampering with crime scene evidence.

4. Become aggressive

   Accidents are stressful situations - and emotions often run high. However, it's incredibly important to control your emotions and refrain from becoming aggressive and angry. Aggression and anger is not helpful after an accident - and any intimidation or aggression could land you up with an assault charge.

5. What to do if you are not at fault

   If you find yourself in a car accident where the other driver is at fault, it's important to remain calm. Our team is available at any time through our dedicated accident support line. If you’re not at fault, you have the right to drive. Give us a call, we’ll help you.

Need help after a car accident? We’ll help you

1300 889 256

Injuries from car accidents can sometimes be unseen - internal injuries can be more dangerous because they won’t be immediately obvious. Internal injuries can happen in a split second - from impact with the steering wheel or even the airbag deploying. Internal injuries and internal bleeding can be life threatening - here’s what you need to know.

Types of internal injuries

The most common internal injuries include

• Organ damage (damage to the kidney or liver)
• Broken ribs
• Internal bleeding
• Brain bleeding
• Punctured lungs

The severity of the internal injury can vary depending on the impact of your car accident.

Symptoms to look out for

If you’re at an accident scene and are concerned by your own or someone else’s injuries, then it’s important to call for medical assistance - dial 000 as soon as you can. Here are a common symptoms to look out for 

• Pain. Impact from a car accident can cause internal injuries that you won’t be able to see. If anyone is experiencing any pain or tenderness, they should be seen by a medical practitioner.
• Nausea. It's common for people with internal injuries to experience dizziness or nausea. Vomiting, especially if blood is seen, is a serious cause for concern.
• Bruising
• Feeling cold

Identification and treatment

Internal injuries can turn life threatening in seconds. If there is any concern of internal injuries, then it’s imperative to be taken to hospital as quickly as possible to diagnose. Internal injuries and internal bleeding can only be diagnosed by X-rays, CTs or careful examination by a medical professional.

Car accidents can happen in mere moments - what to do if you’re not at fault

If it’s not your fault then you shouldn’t be left inconvenienced. We’ll help you. Give our team a call as soon as possible on our dedicated accident support line.

Need help after a car accident? We’ll help you 

1300 889 256