Since October 15 police have only been required to attend and investigate crashes if they meet one or more of three criteria: Where a person is killed or injured, if parties fail to exchange particulars or if a driver appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Previously, in addition to these factors, police were required to attend crashes if a vehicle required towing, but now those needing a tow vehicle will now have to organise this themselves.

Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner John Hartley, said motorists may no longer need to wait for police at a crash site. 

“If you are involved in a tow-only crash, where no one is injured or under the influence and parties exchange particulars, you can now organise a tow from the area and later report the crash to the Police Assistance Line on 131 444,” he said. 

A police spokeswoman said the change was “part of a red tape reduction initiative to better manage crashes on NSW roads.”

“Motorists are also no longer required to report minor collisions to police, even for insurance purposes,” she said.

“The changes aim to improve the safety of motorists, and enable them in tow-only crashes to move off the road faster rather than waiting for police.”