Accident Abroad: What You Should Do in an Emergency
An accident abroad can happen to anyone. According to the German Automobile Club (ADAC), over 50,000 accidents involving German drivers abroad were reported in 2023. Whether on vacation or business trips – a car accident can quickly become a major challenge. However, with the right preparation and a clear plan, you can deal with an emergency calmly. In this article, you will learn what to do in the event of a car accident abroad, which documents are important and what steps you need to take in the event of a car accident.
Preparation: The Most Important Documents for Your Trip
Before you travel abroad, you should make sure that you have all the important documents with you. These documents will help you keep track of everything and make it easier to deal with a car accident:
- Green Insurance Card: This card is proof of your car insurance cover and is useful in many European countries.
- European Accident Report: A standardized form that facilitates the recording of accident data. It is advisable to always have a copy in the glove compartment of an accident vehicle.
- Vehicle Registration Certificate and Driving License: Make sure you have the originals with you – copies are often not sufficient.
- Contact Details of Your Insurance Company and Breakdown Service: Make a note of the telephone numbers of your insurance company and a breakdown service that can also be contacted abroad (e.g. ADAC).
📣 Did you already know? Two warning triangles are mandatory in Spain!
Special regulations apply in Spain when it comes to securing the scene of an accident:
Double Warning Triangle: Unlike in Germany, where one warning triangle is sufficient, you must carry two warning triangles in Spain. In the event of a breakdown or accident, a warning triangle must be placed 50 to 100 meters in front of and behind your vehicle to secure the accident site from both directions.
Especially Important: Don't forget to put on your safety vest before leaving the vehicle, even in Spain. Find out about the relevant regulations before your trip – this will save you fines in an emergency and help you to better safeguard against accidents.
An Accident Has Happened – the First Steps at the Scene of the Accident
A car accident abroad is a stressful situation for many drivers. It is important to stay calm and proceed step by step:
- Secure the Scene of the Accident: First put on your high-visibility vest and set up the warning triangle to warn other road users.
- Check for Possible Injuries: Check whether anyone is injured and administer first aid if necessary. Call the emergency services using the Europe-wide emergency number 112.
- Call the Police: In many countries, it is mandatory to call the police in the event of an accident. Even in the case of minor damage, it is advisable to call the police so that an official accident report can be made.
Accident Report and Documentation – Record All Important Information
To ensure that the handling of an accident abroad runs smoothly, you should document the accident in detail:
- Complete the European Accident Report: Fill out the accident report together with the other party involved in the accident. Make sure that all details are correct and complete.
- Exchange Personal Details and Insurance Data: Exchange contact details and insurance information with the other party involved in the accident.
- Contact Witnesses: Are there any witnesses to the accident? Then make a note of their names, addresses and telephone numbers.
Reporting the Damage – The Right Way to Do It
Once the accident has been documented, it is important to report the damage to your insurance company quickly. Depending on the insurer, you can do this by phone, email or online. Provide the following information:
- Details of the Accident Location: Address and exact circumstances of the accident.
- Vehicles and Persons Involved: License plate number, names and insurances of the other parties involved in the accident.
- Photos and Accident Report: Attach all photos and the completed accident report.
Language Barriers: What to Do?
Language can be a challenge if you have a car accident abroad. Use bilingual accident reports, translation apps and, if in doubt, contact your insurance company. Many insurance companies offer an emergency hotline to help you communicate.
What Happens After the Accident?
Depending on the severity of the car accident and the condition of your accident vehicle, you will need to decide what to do next:
- Drivable Vehicle: If the car is still drivable and has only minor damage, you can carefully continue your journey.
- Roadside Assistance or Towing Service: If your accident car is no longer drivable, contact a towing service via your insurance company or automobile club.
- Repair on Site or Return Transportation: Decide whether a repair in a local workshop or return transportation to Germany makes sense.
Conclusion: Being Well Prepared Is Half the Battle
A car accident abroad is a stressful experience, but with the right preparation you can master the situation. Make sure you always have all the important documents with you, know the regulations of the country in question and act calmly. This will ensure that the handling of your accident car goes smoothly and that you get home safely.
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FAQs
1. What to do if the other party in an accident abroad commits a hit-and-run?
Contact the police and your insurance company immediately. Document the scene of the accident and try to find witnesses.
2. Do I have to fill out an accident report for every car accident abroad?
Yes, the accident report is important for the claims settlement with your insurance company and should be completed for every accident.
3. My car is no longer roadworthy after an accident – What now?
Contact the breakdown service or automobile club, have your accident vehicle towed away and check whether it can be repaired on site or whether it would be better to have it transported back.
