From Wednesday, October 15, police will only be required to attend and investigate crashes if they meet one or more of three criteria:

* Where a person is killed or injured;

* Parties fail to exchange particulars;

* A driver appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Drivers involved in traffic crashes where their vehicle needs to be towed – and none of the above criteria apply – can now organise their own tow and leave the area, and later report the crash to the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.

In addition, drivers will no longer need to report minor collisions to police, even for insurance purposes.

The new streamlined process is part of a red-tape reduction initiative to better manage crashes on NSW roads.

An education campaign – involving media, online, radio advertisements and social media messaging – has been notifying the public of the changes.

Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner John Hartley, said the changes will result in a more streamlined process.

“The changes are aimed at improving the safety of motorists, who in tow-only crashes will now be able to move off the road faster rather than waiting for police, minimising the likelihood of a secondary impact.

“This will ultimately see a reduction in blocked lanes and rubber-necking, and will mean roads will be cleared quickly and more efficiently.

“Police resources will also be better utilised and can now be diverted into broader road safety initiatives and other investigations.

“With the changes effective from midnight, we are strongly urging all motorists to go online to our website and learn what to do in a crash situation – and download an informative ‘flow-chart’ flyer.

“Police will no longer be required to attend tow-only crashes and will not take reports of minor collisions.

“If motorists have concerns or are in doubt of what to do, they should call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency or the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 for information,” Assistant Commissioner Hartley said.

Also, from Wednesday, reports of “minor” traffic crashes – where vehicles do not require towing – will no longer be recorded by police.

Police event numbers will not be issued for these incidents.

A flowchart with step-by-step instructions on what to do in a crash will be sent to motorists with registration renewals, which can be kept in the glove box.

For further detailed information, visit www.police.nsw.gov.au/community_issues/road_safety.