What To Do If You’re Involved In An Accident During A Driving Lesson In Melbourne

Learning to drive is an important milestone that symbolizes freedom, independence, and responsibility. In Melbourne, learner drivers usually gain experience through lessons with qualified instructors, providing a safe space to develop essential skills. However, accidents can still happen—even minor ones—during lessons, which can be stressful and confusing for new drivers.

Knowing how to respond is crucial not only for safety but also for legal and emotional reasons. This includes checking for injuries, exchanging information, understanding liability, and managing stress. Being prepared with the right steps can help you remain calm and in control. This guide will take you through everything you need to know after an accident during a driving lesson.

Your first concern after any road incident must always be safety. Regardless of who was at fault, taking the right safety precautions can prevent further harm. Prioritising safety helps protect everyone involved and ensures the situation is managed calmly and effectively.

Here’s what you should do:

• Stop the vehicle immediately in a safe location, away from moving traffic.
• Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the situation.
• Remain calm and assess injuries. Check yourself, your instructor, and any passengers for injuries.
• Call emergency services (000) if anyone is hurt, if vehicles are blocking traffic, or if there’s property damage or danger (e.g., fire or fuel leaks).

If the vehicle is immobile or unsafe to drive, stay inside (unless it poses a risk) and wait for assistance. Do not move anyone who appears to be seriously injured unless absolutely necessary.

Emotions can run high after an accident, particularly if it’s your first. You might feel guilt, embarrassment, or anger—but maintaining composure is key. Keeping a clear head allows you to respond thoughtfully, communicate effectively, and take the necessary steps to resolve the situation safely. Remember, staying calm not only helps you but also reassures everyone involved.

Important points to remember:

• Do not argue with others involved.
• Do not admit fault at the scene, even if you feel responsible.
• Focus on staying polite and cooperative with everyone involved.

As a learner driver, you are under supervision, which means that legal responsibility is often shared with your instructor. Fault should be determined later through proper investigation and insurance processes, not on the roadside.

While not all accidents require police attendance, some situations in Victoria make it mandatory. It’s important to understand these circumstances to ensure you comply with legal requirements and avoid potential penalties.

Call the police if:

• Someone is injured or unconscious.
• A vehicle needs towing due to damage.
• One of the parties appears intoxicated.
• A driver refuses to provide details.
• There’s damage to property (not just vehicles), like fences or signs.

Even if the police don’t attend the scene, serious incidents must still be reported either online or at a police station within 24 hours. Failing to do so can result in legal consequences, so it’s crucial to meet this deadline to stay compliant with Victorian road safety laws.

By law, all drivers involved in an accident must exchange key information. Even as a learner, this process is important. Sharing accurate details helps ensure that insurance claims can be processed smoothly and reduces the risk of misunderstandings or disputes later on.

Make sure to collect:

• Full names and addresses of all drivers involved.
• Licence numbers and expiry dates.
• Registration numbers and vehicle makes/models.
• Contact details and insurance provider information.
• Instructor’s details and the name of the driving school (if applicable).

Also, try to obtain the contact details of any independent witnesses who saw the accident. Their statements can help if there’s a dispute over what happened. Having reliable witness accounts can provide crucial support during insurance investigations or legal proceedings.

Accurate documentation helps during the insurance claims process and if legal questions arise. Detailed records and clear evidence can speed up resolutions and protect your interests, ensuring a smoother and more transparent handling of the incident.

Use your phone or camera to photograph:

• The damage to all vehicles involved.
• The scene of the accident from different angles.
• Number plates and road signage.
• Road conditions, lighting, and weather.

It’s also helpful to jot down your own account while it’s fresh in your memory. Include the time, date, location, and a summary of events leading up to the crash. This personal record can serve as a valuable reference when providing statements to insurers or authorities later on.

Once the immediate situation is under control, it’s time to inform the appropriate parties. Prompt notification ensures that everyone involved can take the necessary steps, from arranging repairs to handling insurance claims. Keeping all relevant contacts informed also helps maintain clear communication throughout the process.

Who to notify:

• Driving School or Instructor: If you booked through a school, contact them immediately. They may have formal procedures to follow.
• Insurance Providers: The instructor’s insurance typically covers learners during lessons, but some learner drivers have their own policies too.
• Parents or Guardians (if under 18): They can help coordinate with insurers and ensure all paperwork is managed correctly.

Make sure to keep records of all phone calls and emails, including names of contacts and reference numbers. This documentation can be invaluable if any disputes arise or if you need to follow up on the progress of your claim or report.

One of the biggest questions learners have after an accident is: “Am I responsible?” It’s important to remember that liability can be complex, especially when a qualified instructor is supervising.

Here’s what you should know:

• Instructor’s insurance generally covers driving lessons, as long as they are a registered provider or fully licensed supervisor.
• You may be asked to pay the insurance excess, depending on the driving school’s terms and conditions. Always read the fine print when you book.
• Learner drivers are rarely penalised with demerit points or driving offences unless the accident involved reckless or unlawful behaviour.

If another party is involved, their insurance company will conduct its own investigation. Disputes about fault may require further evidence or legal mediation. In such cases, having thorough documentation and witness statements can significantly strengthen your position.

Even minor crashes can have lasting physical or emotional effects. After the incident, monitor how you feel. Seeking medical advice or emotional support early can help address any hidden injuries or anxiety before they worsen.

Health follow-ups may include:

• Seeing a doctor, especially if you experience pain, dizziness, or headaches—symptoms of possible whiplash or concussion.
• Speaking with a counsellor or psychologist if you’re feeling anxious, scared, or hesitant to drive again.
• Taking a break from driving lessons if needed. A good instructor will understand and help you return to driving gradually and confidently.

Crashes can shake anyone, but they’re particularly distressing for new drivers. Acknowledge how you feel and don’t push yourself before you’re ready.

An accident during a driving lesson doesn’t mean you’re a bad driver. In fact, it can become a powerful learning opportunity if handled the right way. Embracing the experience with a positive mindset can help you grow more confident and skilled behind the wheel.

What you can do:

• Review the incident with your instructor to identify areas for improvement.
• Practice specific skills like safe following distances, hazard awareness, or mirror checks if these contributed to the incident.
• Study Victoria’s road rules to reinforce your understanding of right-of-way, signage, and legal responsibilities.

Most importantly, use this as motivation to become a more alert, responsible, and prepared driver. Every challenge faced on the road is a step toward mastering safe and confident driving habits.

Being involved in an accident during a driving lesson can be stressful, even if it’s minor. Many learner drivers face this situation, but with the right approach, it doesn’t have to hold you back. Staying calm, acting responsibly, and knowing your rights and duties can turn the experience into a valuable lesson. Melbourne’s road laws protect learners, and driving instructors are trained and insured to handle such incidents. Whether it’s a small scrape or something more serious, what truly matters is your response and willingness to learn. With patience and support, you’ll recover and become a safer, more confident driver.