What do I do in case of a traffic accident abroad?

A traffic accident abroad often comes on top of language barriers, stress, and unfamiliar rules. Nonetheless, the principles are the same as at home: safety first, documentation next – and a clear accident report both parties agree on. Below you will find a practical step-by-step guide that works in most European countries. Note that details and terms may vary between countries and insurance companies, and you should always follow local authorities' instructions.

1) First step on the scene: safety and warning

Stop and secure the area. Turn on hazard lights, wear a reflective vest if you have one, and place a warning triangle at a safe distance – as the Norwegian Public Roads Administration recommends in case of a traffic accident. Move yourself and passengers out of the driving lane if it is safe to do so.

Check if anyone is injured. In case of personal injury, fire risk, or a dangerous traffic situation: call the emergency number. In the EU/EEA, 112 serves as a common emergency number. For minor injuries, it may still be wise to contact local police if there is a disagreement about the course of events, suspicion of intoxication, or a hazardous traffic situation.

Police – when is it necessary? Many countries require a police report in case of personal injury, significant material damage, suspicion of criminal activity, or when one of the parties does not want to cooperate. In Norway, you can find general advice on contacting the police at the Police (local rules abroad may be stricter).

2) Gather evidence: what you do now saves time later

Once the shock has subsided, documentation is the most important thing you can do for a smooth claims process.

• Photos/videos: Take overview photos of the entire situation, close-ups of damages, license plates, road markings, signs (speed limit, right of way), and preferably a photo showing weather and light conditions.
• Witnesses: Ask for names, phone numbers, and (if possible) a brief explanation. Witness information can be crucial in case of disagreement.
• Information from the other party: Name, address, phone number, driver's license, registration number, insurance company, and policy number (or green card info where applicable).
• Notes: Write down time, place (GPS), direction, speed/conditions, and what was said on site.

3) Fill out the accident report – preferably together with the other party

In many European countries, a common accident form ("European Accident Statement") is used in paper format. The point is that both parties describe the same incident and sign. This reduces misunderstandings and makes it easier for insurance companies to process the case.

With Skademeldinger.no, you can do this digitally: you fill out one joint accident report together, get a clear summary, and sign digitally – so you end up with a shared version that can easily be forwarded and is ready to send to the insurance company. This is particularly useful abroad, where it is often even more important to have everything in place before you each drive away.

Important: Do not sign anything you do not understand. If there are language issues, use a translator on your phone, or write a brief explanation in English in the free text field. And remember: signing a form is normally not the same as admitting fault – it is a confirmation of the information and a sketch of the incident.

4) Contact insurance and roadside assistance early

Call the insurance company’s alarm center as early as possible, especially if the car cannot be driven, you need towing, or you are uncertain about the workshop/further travel. They can often arrange for towing, refer to approved workshops, and explain what you are covered for.

General advice on car insurance, claims settlements, and what affects price/terms can be found at Finans Norge (note that coverages and deductibles may vary from company to company).

5) Workshop, rental car, and home transportation: clarify before you book

Workshop and repairs

Do not start major repairs without clarifying with the insurance company, unless it is absolutely necessary to get to safety. Ask about:

• whether the workshop needs to be pre-approved
• whether they need an assessment/photos before disassembly
• which receipts you need to keep (everything)

Rental car and alternative travel

A rental car is often tied to your own coverage (comprehensive/additional coverage) and may have a maximum amount or require pre-approval. If you are on a driving holiday, travel insurance may also come into play – especially in case of illness/injury or interrupted travel.

6) Economics: deductible, bonus, and recourse – what can you expect?

In case of damage abroad, the terms of your Norwegian insurance mainly apply, but liability issues and settlements may be influenced by local rules and the other party's insurance arrangement. Typically, you should be prepared for:

• Deductible: Depends on coverage and company; roadside assistance/towing may have its own rules.
• Bonus loss: May occur in case of comprehensive damage where you are responsible or where liability is unclear; clarified in the claims process.
• Partial liability/disagreement: Thorough documentation and a common accident report make it easier to get to the bottom of the case.

For neutral consumer advice and useful checklists related to car ownership and driving holidays, NAF also has a lot of relevant information (note that coverages may vary).

7) Checklist: what you should bring in the car on a trip abroad

• Reflective vests for everyone in the car, warning triangle, and first aid kit (requirements vary in Europe)
• Insurance certificate and phone number for the insurance company’s alarm center
• Passport/ID and driver’s license
• Charger/power bank
• A solution for the accident report on your mobile – so you can fill out and sign together with the other party right then and there

8) How to do it easiest in practice with Skademeldinger.no

If both parties are willing to cooperate, the goal is to get a joint, signed description before you part ways. Skademeldinger.no is designed precisely for this: you fill out the accident report together, you get a shared version that you can both save, and you sign digitally so that the documentation is tidy and ready for submission.

It is often the small difference that makes the claims process go faster: correct contact info, clear photos, a simple sketch, and two signatures – while you are still on the scene and remember the details.

Finally: Get to safety first, and take a few too many photos rather than too few. If in doubt: call the insurance company – and ensure that the accident report is complete and easy to understand.