Accident Report Form for Cars – Complete Guide to Filling Out (2026)

An accident report form (often called European Accident Report) is the insurance industry’s standard for describing what happened in a car accident. Proper filling can mean the difference between a smooth process and weeks of additional questions. In 2026, many companies expect you to submit accident reports digitally, but the content is essentially the same: who, what, where, when – and the documentation that supports the explanation.

Before You Fill Out: What to Do at the Accident Scene

Before the paperwork starts, it’s all about safety and correct initial actions.

• Secure the area: Turn on hazard lights, wear a reflective vest, and set out a warning triangle where necessary.
• Check for personal injury: Call 113 if needed, and 112 in case of acute danger, violence/threats or if the situation escalates.
• When should the police be contacted? The police recommend contact in cases of personal injury, disagreement about the sequence of events, impairment, aggressive behavior, or significant traffic danger. See Police: traffic accident.

Tip: If you are in an unsafe position (for example in an intersection), you should move the cars to a safer location after taking necessary photos – as long as it does not hinder essential documentation.

What Documentation Should You Gather?

Good documentation can expedite the processing of the claim and reduce the risk of disputes.

• Photos of damages to both vehicles (close-up and a bit at a distance), license plates, road markings/signs, and overall pictures of the situation.
• Sketch of intersections/lanes, directional arrows, and where the vehicles were before and after the collision.
• Witnesses: names and phone numbers (ask them to briefly describe what they saw).
• Notes: time, place (address/coordinates), weather and road conditions, and any relevant circumstances (sun in eyes, ice, poor visibility).

How to Fill Out the Accident Report Form for Cars – Step by Step

The form is designed for both parties to describe the same event. Fill out calmly, and stick to facts – do not guess.

1) The Parties and Vehicles

Enter correct information about the driver, owner, and vehicle for both you and the opposing party:

• Name, address, phone number, and date of birth (or organization number for company cars).
• License plate number, make/model, and any trailer.
• Insurance company and policy number (often found in the app or on the insurance certificate).

2) Time, Place, and Incident

Be precise about:

• Time (as accurately as possible).
• Place (address/road, direction, any exit/intersection).
• What happened? Describe in short sentences: who did what, in what order.

3) Cross Checks and Sketch

The checkboxes are important because they are often used when the companies assess responsibility. Only check what you are completely sure about. The sketch should show:

• lanes/roads, signs/lights, right-of-way lines
• arrows for driving directions
• the point where the car hit (mark with X)

4) Extent of Damage

Note visible damages to both vehicles. If you are unsure whether there is more damage, write "possible hidden damage" instead of omitting it. In the case of a rear-end collision, there may also be personal injuries that arise later (for example, neck pain), so be vigilant and consult a doctor if symptoms occur.

5) Signature – and Why It Matters

A signature is not the same as admitting fault, but a confirmation that the information recorded is what you actually agreed to submit. If you disagree, you should not be pressured to sign a document you do not recognize – write a separate explanation and document the disagreement.

Digital Accident Report in 2026: Easier When You Fill Out Together

Many find that “what was said at the scene” turns out differently when the accident report is submitted later separately. With Skademeldinger.no, you can therefore fill out one joint accident report on your phone, upload photos there and then, and sign digitally – ensuring that both parties have the same version. Thereafter, the accident report can easily be shared further, ready to be submitted to the insurance company.

What Happens After the Accident Report is Submitted?

Assessment, Workshop, and Repair

The insurance company assesses liability, coverage, and repair arrangements. You may be asked to choose a workshop or receive suggestions for collaborating workshops. Keep receipts (for example, towing or temporary transportation) and clarify in advance what is covered.

Rental Car and Mobility

A rental car may be included in comprehensive coverage or as additional coverage, but terms vary widely (duration, car class, and deductible). Check your agreement or ask the company before ordering.

Deductible, Bonus, and Liability

Whether you incur bonus loss or must pay a deductible depends on fault/responsibility distribution and what coverages you have (liability, partial comprehensive, comprehensive). The rules vary between insurance companies and can also be affected by special conditions (for example, age, company car agreement, or youth insurance). Always request a written explanation if you are unsure.

Common Mistakes – and How to Avoid Them

• Too little documentation: Take more photos than you think you need, from multiple angles.
• Unclear formulations: Write briefly and concretely, and avoid assumptions.
• Forgetting witnesses: Witness information is often crucial in word-against-word situations.
• Submitting different versions: Fill out together whenever possible, and ensure that both receive a copy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I always have to fill out an accident report form for minor damages?

It is strongly recommended, even for small dents. Minor damages can turn out to be more costly when the car is inspected, and it is important that the incident is documented.

What if the opposing party refuses to fill out or sign?

Fill out as much as you can yourself, take photos, gather witnesses, and note license plate numbers. In case of conflict, aggression, or suspicion of impairment, you can contact the police for advice, cf. Police.

What if there is damage to a parked car?

Leave contact information and document with photos. Many insurance companies have their own routines for parking damages, but the principle is the same: documentation and clear description.

Sources

• Police – traffic accident (advice and when to contact the police)
• Norwegian Public Roads Administration – official information about vehicles and traffic

Note: This guide has been updated for 2026. Rules and terms for deductible, bonus, rental car, and repair may vary between insurance companies and agreements (updated as of 2025 where relevant).