Hawthorn

Private quotes are free and easy — no appointment and no obligation. Drop in or email photos for a fast estimate.

The quick questions below may help you decide whether to lodge a claim, and how.

Is your claim against another person (not your own insurer)?

Choose an option below.

If you weren’t at fault

If you weren’t at fault, you may have options and benefits that aren’t available when claiming through your own insurer. We can assist with the right advice, preparing a detailed quote and supporting photos so the responsible party can decide what to do next. No appointment is required — simply stop by or email your photos for a quick, obligation-free estimate.

Is the other person lodging an insurance claim?

Good to know — what this means for you

  • Choice of repairer: As the third party, you have the right to choose your own repairer. Some insurers may suggest otherwise — but you absolutely do. Choose a repairer that’s convenient for you.
  • No excess: No excess when liability rests with the other party.
  • Replacement car entitlement: You may be entitled to a replacement car while your vehicle is repaired — we can explain your options.
  • Genuine parts & quality control: We advocate for manufacturer-approved methods and parts.
  • No impact on your policy: Avoid recording a claim on your history or premium.

If the other person is not lodging a claim

Sometimes the responsible party prefers to pay privately to avoid an insurance claim. If so:

  • We strongly recommend full payment upfront, either directly to you or to us — whichever is easiest.
  • Be cautious of partial payments. Once repairs are complete, remaining balances can be difficult to recover if the payer becomes unresponsive. This can delay release of your vehicle.

To avoid issues, ensure the full amount is settled before any repairs commence.

Not what you meant?

Before you lodge a claim

With rising premiums and high excess, lodging a claim isn’t always the most cost-effective option. We can provide an accurate estimate first so you can decide if it’s worth lodging a claim.

If you do proceed, check whether your policy includes choice of repairer.

Do you have choice of repairer?

Please tell your insurer that Acclaim Accident Repairs is your chosen repairer and ask them to arrange an assessment. We’ve already prepared your estimate and taken photos — most insurers will assess online and authorise repairs quickly.

If you don’t have choice of repairer, you’ll need to follow your insurer’s directions on how and when repairs occur. We’re sorry we can’t assist further, but appreciate you calling in so we could review your options. We can also help check your policy wording if you’re unsure.

Want to choose again?

📝 Helpful accident details to collect

  • Other driver’s details: Full name, phone, address, driver licence number.
  • Vehicle details: Make/model, colour, registration number.
  • Insurer and policy number (for the other party, if known).
  • Time/date and exact location (street, nearest cross-street, suburb).
  • Photos: All damage, number plates, wider scene, road markings, debris, and any fluid leaks.
  • Witness details: Names and contact numbers.
  • Police reference number (if police attended or you reported later).
  • Dashcam/CCTV: Note if available and how to obtain a copy.
  • Do not admit fault at the scene; stick to facts and exchange details.