Coach and bus operators involved in serious accidents will now be able to report the details more easily thanks to a new online system.

Michelle Williams, said all companies responsible for running public transport vehicles were required by law to supply information about serious incidents initially to their insurers, and then to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency.

And now, the Government has worked with the public service vehicles industry to set up a new online form that’s available on computer, tablet or smartphone.

“This move is great news for the industry as it’s a far simpler way to communicate with the DVSA, and it should encourage more operators to report incidents as soon as possible after they happen,” said Michelle.

“We are one of only a handful of brokers to specialise in bus, coach and minibus insurance, and our Coachline team works closely with the industry to ensure our clients receive the very latest advice.

“Through the new online reporting service, operators will receive confirmation that their report has been submitted and the DVSA will aim to contact them within two working days.

“Operators must remember too that if they fail to inform the DVSA of a serious incident, they could face legal action – and any vehicle involved in an accident should not be used or repaired before their insurer or the DVSA responds to the report.”

Under the rules, operators need to report incidents where any vehicle failure or damage may affect the safety of passengers or other road users.

“The law requires transport companies to report any incident where there are fatalities, serious injuries or serious damage,” said Michelle.

“But other incidents including a system failure such as brake failure or wheel loss, a fire (including arson attacks) or a suspected serious safety defect must also be logged.”