Accidents and breakdowns are never planned—and they’re always stressful. One minute you’re driving along just fine, and the next, you’re pulled over with a busted radiator or a crumpled front end. Once the initial shock wears off, you’re left wondering: what now?
Whether your car’s been in a collision or has just broken down unexpectedly, it’s important to know your options so you can make the right decisions quickly—and with as little stress (and cost) as possible.
Let’s break it down into clear, simple steps.
Step 1: Stay Safe and Assess the Situation
First and foremost: safety comes first. If you’re in traffic, move your car to the side of the road or a safe area if possible. Turn on your hazard lights and get yourself (and any passengers) out of harm’s way.
In the case of an accident, even if the damage seems minor, make sure to exchange details with any other drivers involved. You’ll need:
- Names and phone numbers
- Licence and rego info
- Insurance details
For a mechanical breakdown (like engine failure or overheating), it’s best not to try and fix it on the spot—especially if you’re on a busy road or freeway.
Step 2: Call a Tow Truck (Don’t Stress—Help Is Available)
Once you’ve made sure everyone’s safe, it’s time to move the vehicle if it’s not drivable. This is where a tow truck comes in.
If you’re covered by roadside assistance, great—give them a call. If not, you can still contact a local towing service directly. Companies like ours provide affordable towing across Melbourne and can usually get to you quickly.
We recently had a customer in Brunswick whose car overheated during a hot summer day. He wasn’t a member of any roadside program, but he gave us a call, and within 40 minutes we had the car on the truck and taken to his mechanic of choice.
Tip: Always ask the towing company about pricing upfront to avoid surprises.
Step 3: Decide If It’s Worth Repairing
After an accident or serious breakdown, it’s time for the tough question: Is it worth fixing?
Get a quote from your mechanic or panel beater. If the cost of repairs is more than the value of the car—or more than you’re willing to spend—it might be time to say goodbye.
This is especially common with:
- Older cars with high mileage
- Vehicles with frame or structural damage
- Cars with recurring mechanical issues
Example:
A lady in Dandenong called us after her 2005 Hyundai Getz was rear-ended. The panel damage wasn’t major, but the cost to fix it was over $3,000—more than the car was worth. Instead of pouring money into it, she sold it to us for cash and put that money toward a newer car.
Step 4: Consider Selling It As-Is
If the car isn’t worth repairing, don’t worry—it still has value. Many car removal companies (like ours) will pay cash for accident-damaged or broken-down cars.
We’ll come to you, pick up the car for free, and pay you on the spot. You don’t have to spend time listing it online, haggling with buyers, or trying to explain what’s wrong with it.
We buy:
- Damaged cars
- Cars that won’t start
- Cars with expired rego
- Written-off vehicles
Step 5: Cancel Rego and Notify VicRoads
If the car is no longer roadworthy and you’re not planning to repair or sell it privately, you’ll need to cancel the registration through VicRoads. This will also help you get a refund for any unused portion of the rego.
Make sure to remove your number plates and return them (or destroy them, depending on VicRoads advice). Don’t forget to also cancel any insurance policies linked to the vehicle.
Step 6: Say Goodbye (and Hello to Less Stress)
Letting go of a car after a breakdown or accident might feel like the end of an era—but it can also be the start of a new, stress-free chapter. Instead of spending money on repairs or letting the car take up space, you’ve got the chance to clear it out and even walk away with some cash.
Just Something to Keep in Mind
Breakdowns and accidents can be rough, but what happens next doesn’t have to be. Whether you want to tow it to your mechanic or sell it as-is, you’ve got options—and we’re here to help you make the process smooth, fast, and fair.
So if your car has given up on you, give us a call. We’ll help you figure out the best next step—no pressure, no drama.
If you are in Heathmont, and looking for a cash for cars service, this is the best way to visit us.
20A Station St, Bayswater VIC 3153