Unconscious after an accident? Here’s how to fill out a damage report when you can't sign at the scene

When a traffic accident results in one party becoming unconscious, hospitalized, or otherwise unable to sign a damage report, uncertainty often arises: Can the case still be reported? What if the other party fills out "their" version alone? The answer is that the damage can (and should) be reported regardless, but you need to be extra careful with documentation and timeline.

First: safety and alerting take precedence

In case of personal injury or suspicion of personal injury, health and safety must come first. Call 113 if necessary, and notify the police when the situation warrants it. The police describe what you should do in a traffic accident and when to contact them at Politiet.no.

Tip: If you are a passenger, fellow road user, or relative present at the scene, you can help by noting down license plate numbers, names/phone numbers of witnesses, and taking pictures – as long as it is safe and does not hinder emergency services.

Can you fill out a damage report without a signature at the scene?

Yes. A damage report is in practice a description of the incident and a basis for further processing by the insurance company. A signature at the scene is helpful because it shows that both parties agreed on what was written there and then, but the absence of a signature does not stop the case.

Two common situations

• You are the injured party and cannot sign: The other party may have filled something out themselves, but you can submit your own account afterwards.
• The other party cannot sign: You still need to report the damage, but avoid "concluding" on behalf of the other party.

Documentation becomes extra important when a party is unable to sign

When you can’t create a joint damage report at the scene, the evidence becomes more important. Insurance companies typically assess:

• Pictures/video: Damage to cars, brake marks, road markings, intersections, visibility conditions, weather, and overview images from multiple angles.
• Witnesses: Names and phone numbers, as well as brief notes on what they actually saw.
• Sketch and timeline: Where the cars were, the direction, speed (if known), and what happened in order.
• Police/ambulance: Incident number or reference if the police were on site.

If you need to report or submit information to the police, you can find access to services at Police - report. Note that the police do not "determine fault" for insurance in all cases, but documentation from them can still carry weight.

How to fill out a damage report afterwards – step by step

1) Write down your version while it is fresh

Even if you couldn't sign, you (or a relative) can note details as soon as you are able: time, place, direction, speed, traffic conditions, and what you remember before/after the collision. Clearly distinguish between facts and assumptions.

2) Gather the other party's information

Normally, you will need their name, phone number, license plate number, insurance company, and preferably the claim number if they have already reported it. If you did not exchange information at the scene, this can sometimes be found in the police documentation or via witnesses.

3) Fill out one joint version when you can

When the situation has calmed down, it is often best to create a joint damage report together with the other party, so both can see what is being submitted. On Skademeldinger.no, you can fill out the same damage report on each of your phones, attach pictures, and sign digitally when both are ready – without having to meet physically again. This reduces misunderstandings and makes it easier to send in the "correct package" to the insurance company.

4) If you disagree: submit each your explanation

If you can’t agree on the sequence of events, it is perfectly normal for both to submit their version. It is especially important to:

• stick to what you know
• attach documentation
• provide witnesses and contact information
• not sign claims you cannot stand by

What about liability, deductible, and bonus when you couldn't sign?

The absence of a signature in itself does not determine liability. The insurance company makes an assessment based on information from both parties, damage to the cars, any witnesses, and other documentation. Deductible, bonus loss, and coverages follow the terms of your car insurance, and these can vary between companies and products (liability/partial/full coverage).

A good piece of advice is to report the damage early, but at the same time be tidy: write that you could not sign at the scene due to injury/unconsciousness, and that you will submit documentation later. This gives the casehandler the right context from the start.

Practical tips to expedite processing

• Gather everything in one place: Photos, witnesses, notes, and any reference numbers.
• Label attachments clearly: "Picture 1 - damage left front", "Sketch", "Witness - Ola Nordmann".
• Clarify vehicle use: Ask the insurance company about towing, workshop, and potential rental cars before you order them yourself, to avoid expenses that are not covered.
• Be consistent: Same time/place in all documents, and explain deviations (e.g., estimated time).

Therefore, a digital, joint damage report is especially useful in serious accidents

When one party becomes unconscious, it is often impossible to "land" everything at the scene. With Skademeldinger.no, you can afterwards:

• fill out the damage report together even though you are at different locations
• share one joint version that both can review before submission
• sign digitally when health conditions and energy allow it
• attach pictures and information so it becomes clear to the insurance company

When should you ask for help?

In cases of personal injury, unclear sequences of events, or disagreement about liability, it may be wise to ask a relative for help in gathering information, or to contact the insurance company for guidance on what they need. And if you suspect criminal behavior, such as substance influence or dangerous driving, the police should be contacted – see advice at The Police.

Finally: This article provides general information. The rules for coverage, deductible, and bonus follow the terms of your insurance agreement and may vary between companies (updated according to 2025/2026 practices).