Online Crash Reporting moves up a gear

Paperwork is a thing of the past when it comes to reporting crashes in Tasmania.

A new Traffic Crash Reporting System (TCRS) has been launched to allow crash reports to be submitted online.

Tasmania Police developed the online crash reporting system under the Support to the Frontline Strategy, which aims to implement initiatives and technology where they contribute to more effective and efficient policing.

“The feedback from our members is extremely positive, with police reporting that the online system is about 30 minutes faster than preparing and processing a paper based report,” said Assistant Commissioner, Donna Adams.

Drivers involved in a minor crash can also use the Traffic Crash Reporting System. Where a minor crash doesn’t need to be reported under the legislation, but a police report is needed to make an insurance claim, drivers can submit their own report online.

A crash doesn’t need to be reported to police if:

• No one was injured or killed
• The crash was not a hit and run
• All drivers involved exchanged details including name, address, registration numbers
• No vehicle was towed or carried away.

If drivers don’t require police assistance, but are not sure if police need to attend and make a report, then they can obtain advice from the Police Assistance Line 131 444.

“Police attend about 6,000 crashes each year and almost 40% of those result in minor damage, where a police report is not required under legislation. Many of these crashes are the result of failing to give way on urban streets, car park crashes or low speed rearenders.

The new self-service reporting system for drivers who need a police report for insurance purposes will free up considerable police resources.

“We estimate the amount of police time saved by new system each year is equivalent to one full time police officer.”

The Traffic Crash Reporting System is available at www.reportacrash.police.tas.gov.au