Suppose you just had a car accident, do you know what actions to take? Probably after such a situation all kinds of questions go through your head. What should I do now? First take a few deep breaths, and then relax. There are a few things that need to be done.
Do I always have to fill in a claim form?
No, this is not always necessary. There are a number of cases where no claim form needs to be used. This applies to damage due to weather conditions, window damage, theft, joyriding and collision with a fixed object where the opposite party is unknown.
When is it required?
Completing a claim form is required in the event of damage due to vandalism and in the event of a collision with a person, object or animal where the owner is known and is able to sign the form.
Do I have to fill in the claim form on the spot?
You must fill in the front of the form on the spot. On this side are some questions about the accident, what damage was caused and how it happened. You are also asked to sketch the situation. Immediately after the accident, the situation is still fresh in your memory, which is why it is smart to have this on paper as soon as possible.
Conflict with the opposing party?
If you have a conflict with the opposing party about exactly how the situation came about, any witnesses can also help you directly. The police advise to always take as many photos as possible. Make sure that both parties sign a copy of the claim form. You can fill in the back of the form at a later time at home.
The other party drove on after the accident. Am I not getting anything now?
Always check first whether your own car insurance covers this. Is this not the case? Do not panic! You can contact the Guarantee Fund in these situations. The Guarantee Fund is for people who have suffered damage from a motor vehicle and who cannot go to an insurer. This includes situations in which the other party is driving uninsured, has caused an accident with a stolen vehicle or has driven on after the accident.
As a result, you almost always receive the compensation you are entitled to! Please note that the Guarantee Fund sets a number of requirements. For example, you must have made an effort to trace the culprit if he is unknown.
Should I call the police?
Are there serious injuries? Call 112 immediately! Ambulance personnel can always better assess the situation and offer immediate assistance if necessary. If your car blocks the road or if there is significant damage, you can reach the police on 0900-8844.
When is this not necessary?
In case of minor accidents without serious injuries or major damage, the police will not come to the scene. In these cases you can often handle the situation yourself with the other party. In any case, make sure that you approach witnesses and take photos from as many angles and positions as possible. Mutual conflicts about liability are matters for the insurers, not the police. Insurers investigate the accident on the basis of witness statements and photos.
How do I report the damage to my insurer?
It is wise to report damage as soon as possible. This can be done, for example, by sending a completed claim form to your insurer. In some cases it is also possible to report the damage by telephone. There are also insurers where you can do this directly on your smartphone! Always check with your own insurer how you can best do this.