3rd September 2021

What to do if you get involved in a road accident abroad

road accidents

Driving abroad can be nerve-wrecking especially if you get involved in a road traffic accident. It can be more than overwhelming experience as you may face barriers such as language, infrastructure, rules, local drivers, and some extra paperwork to deal with. Not to forget about the extra expenses too!

For this reason, we wanted to share a few tips on what to do if you get involved in a road accident abroad.

Documents: First and foremost, it’s important to prepare for your trip abroad by making sure you have the right documents that you’re required to take with you.  To find more about what documents you need to drive in Europe, visit: Driving in Europe – Update July 2021

For peace of mind, you may also want to have a look at your vehicle’s insurance policy and increase the level of insurance cover if necessary. Driving on unfamiliar roads can be challenging so having the appropriate insurance can save you from unforeseen costs if you get involved in a road traffic accident.

If you are leasing your vehicle, you need to contact your provider and obtain the relevant permissions and correct documents to take the vehicle abroad.

Rules & regulations: Check the driving laws as they can vary widely e.g. some countries in Europe requires you to have your headlights on at all times, or carry a first-aid kit.

Hundreds of European cities have vehicle entry regulations too. Entry can depend on vehicle emission, payment, vehicle types and many others. To avoid costly fines and delays when travelling abroad with your vehicle, read our guide for further information regarding the official badges required to drive in specific cities across Europe

Drinking and driving is never a good idea, but it becomes especially bad when you go abroad where some countries have zero tolerance. Read our guide for more information on the legal blood alcohol limit for driving in countries across Europe and the potential consequences if caught with levels exceeding the limit.

Planning: Last but not least, plan ahead your journey as this will make your life easier -it will allow you to reach your destination by choosing the best route possible and avoid unforeseen road closure. Some countries require you to pay a toll in order to use the road, so it’s ideal to research your route beforehand.

Keep in mind the weather conditions, and plan ahead your stops if you are going on a long journey. Take regular breaks and get enough sleep before getting behind the wheel to prevent drowsy driving.

Safety first – If you get involve in a road traffic accident, make sure you stop your vehicle as soon as possible at a safe location and check yourself and other passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call an ambulance (if you are in an EU country, call 112 to contact the emergency services).

Call the police – If no one is injured call the police first. Make notes of everything that has happened and take pictures, obtain the full details of the other driver as well as the contact details of any witnesses.

You should get a copy of the police report or a reference number.

*If you drive in Europe, you may be provided with an European Accident Statement (EAS). It is usually given by your insurer and is to be filled in by the drivers involved in the accident – to outline the details which are still fresh in mind. You and the other driver should receive a copy, but don’t sign the document if you disagree with the statements used to describe the accident.

Inform your insurer – you should get in touch with your insurance provider as soon as possible to let them know about the accident and provide the necessary details. What would happen next depends on your insurance cover e.g. the level of insurance cover you have, or whether your vehicle is rental.

 

If you have any questions or you need further information, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us!