Can I fill out an accident report alone?

The short answer is: Yes, you can fill out an accident report alone. This often happens in practice — for example, if the other party drives off, does not want to cooperate, you cannot reach each other afterwards, or you discover the damage only later. At the same time, there are some pitfalls: When the accident report only has one party's description, it becomes easier for the insurance company to ask follow-up questions, and it may take longer to clarify responsibility.

Below you will get a practical overview of when you can (and should) fill out alone, what you need to document, and how to best ensure a smooth process with the insurance company in 2026.

When is it okay to fill out an accident report alone?

You can normally fill out alone in situations such as:

• The other party is not available (left the scene, unclear contact information, or you discover the damage later).
• It is a one-sided damage (e.g., you back into a pole, or stone chips on the windshield).
• The other party refuses to sign or declines to cooperate.
• You have only partial information, but need to report the damage in a reasonable time.

Important: Do not “fill in” what you do not know. Instead, clearly write that the other party's information is missing, what you have tried to obtain, and attach documentation.

When should you not "just handle it yourself"?

If there is a disagreement, personal injury, or suspicion of criminal activity, you should be extra careful — and often involve the police.

Contact the police when necessary

The police provide advice on traffic accidents and when you should contact them. Especially in case of personal injury, suspicion of substance abuse, or if the parties cannot agree, it may be appropriate to call the police at the scene or as soon as possible afterwards. See Police: traffic accident for updated guidance.

What you should do at the scene of the accident (even if you fill out alone)

A good accident report is as much about documentation as it is about the form itself. The better the background you submit, the easier the case handling will be.

1) Secure and notify

• Stop safely, secure the scene, and use a warning triangle if necessary.
• Check if anyone is injured, and call 113 if needed.

2) Take pictures - many and clear

• Overview pictures showing the road, location, signs and the traffic situation.
• Close-ups of damage to all involved vehicles/items.
• Pictures of tire tracks, loose parts, glass, and anything else that shows the course of events.

3) Note down what you can reach at that time

• Date, time, and exact location (preferably GPS/road name).
• Weather/road and light conditions.
• Witnesses: names and phone numbers.
• Other party: license plate number, name (if you have it), phone, insurance company (if possible).

4) Make a simple sketch

A hand-drawn sketch (or drawing in the form) with arrows for direction of travel, lanes, yield, and point of collision can be crucial if there is a dispute of words later.

How do you fill out an accident report alone in practice?

Whether you use a paper form or a digital solution, the principles are the same:

• Describe the incident objectively: what happened, in what order, and what you observed.
• Differentiate facts from assumptions: “I saw …” vs. “I think …”.
• Provide everything you know about the other party, and clearly write what is missing.
• Upload attachments: pictures, witness information, possibly receipts.

What does it mean that the other party does not sign?

An accident report is not the same as a “confession,” but a signature normally confirms that the information stated has been reviewed. A missing signature does not necessarily stop the case, but it may mean more work: The insurance company often has to obtain the other party's explanation separately and assess responsibility based on documentation.

Therefore, it may be smart to use a solution that makes joint filling out easier. With Skademeldinger.no, you can fill out the same accident report together (each on their mobile), and sign it digitally. This provides a common version that both of you have access to, and it can be shared with the insurance company.

Consequences: deductible, bonus, and responsibility

Many are most concerned about deductible and bonus loss. There is no “one size fits all” approach here, as terms vary between companies and coverage (liability, partial coverage, full coverage, etc.). Nevertheless, some general lines apply:

• The liability question (who is at fault) often affects who is “charged” for the damage.
• Deductible is typically tied to your own coverage (for example, full coverage), but may in some cases be reclaimed if the other party is found liable.
• Bonus may be affected by a payout on your insurance, but this depends on the bonus system in your company.

The most important thing you can do is to submit an accident report that is clear and well documented, so that liability can be assessed correctly.

If the other party drives off

If you suspect that the other party has fled after a collision (classic in parking damage), you should:

• Take pictures of the damage and the area.
• Note the time/place and look for cameras/witnesses.
• Consider contacting the police, especially if you have a license plate number or other identifying information.

How to make the situation easier for yourself

Accident reports often become more time-consuming when the parties have different versions. Therefore, the rule of thumb is:

• Fill out together when you can – and when you agree on the facts.
• If you must fill out alone: be precise, provide plenty of documentation, and be clear about missing information.

At Skademeldinger.no, you can start the accident report at the scene, invite the other party to the same form, and get digital signing – so that you end up with a common and organized accident report that is ready to be submitted.

Sources

• Police – traffic accident (advice and guidance)
• The Norwegian Public Roads Administration (general information and advice on traffic and vehicles)

Note: Rules on coverage, deductibles, rental cars, and bonuses vary between insurance companies and agreements. Always check the terms in your company for details.