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What if you have a car accident?

Car accidents can be a daunting experience, especially when you're in a foreign country. However, in this article, we will guide you through the necessary steps you should take in case you find yourself in such a situation. We'll provide you with practical advice on what to do, such as stopping your vehicle, checking for injuries, calling the police, filling out a European claim form, and exchanging information with the other driver. We will also outline what not to do, such as admitting fault and leaving the scene of the accident.

We'll also provide you with some essential information on what to do in case of a car accident with a rental car in Marbella. By the end of this article, you'll be well-equipped to handle a car accident confidently and protect yourself in case of any eventuality. So, let's dive in!

Table of contents

Introduction

Car accidents are never something we expect to happen, but unfortunately, they can happen to anyone at any time. It can be a traumatic experience, especially if you're in a foreign country where the rules and procedures may be different. In this article, we will discuss the steps you should take if you get into a car accident in Marbella, Spain.

What to do:

  1. Stop your vehicle and check for injuries The first thing you should do after a car accident is to stop your vehicle and check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately. The emergency number 112 applies throughout Europe.
  2. Call the police In Spain, it is mandatory to call the police in case of a car accident, even if there are no injuries. The police will take a report of the accident, which will be useful in case of an insurance claim. Write down the number of the official report, so you always have it for your administration. Even if there is only parking damage, report it to the police.
  3. Complete the European claim form together with the counterparty, which is the same for all European countries. By filling in a European claim form, you can explain the situation in your own language. This is especially wise if you do not master the English or Spanish language sufficiently. The text on a claim form can always be translated later. The drawing at the bottom of the claim form must provide clarity about the cause of the accident. Can't agree with the other party? Then ask the police to mediate. Police present at an accident also draw up a police report of their findings. Drivers are also checked for alcohol use and, if applicable, the indication for drug use.
  4. Exchange information with the other driver, including names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information.
  5. Take photos of the accident situation and the damage to all vehicles involved. Also photograph the silent witnesses, such as glass splinters and skid marks.
  6. Contact your insurance company Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. They will provide you with instructions on what to do next and may send an adjuster to inspect the damage.

What not to do:

  1. Do not admit fault for the accident, even if you think you may be partially responsible. Leave the determination of fault to the police and insurance companies.
  2. Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal in Spain and can result in serious consequences.
  3. The police report is an important document that will be used in any insurance claims or legal proceedings. Make sure to read the report carefully and correct any inaccuracies.

What to Do in Case of a Car Accident with a Rental Car

If you are involved in a car accident while driving a rental car in Marbella, it is important to follow the same steps as outlined above. In addition to these steps, it is also important to inform the rental car company as soon as possible. The rental car company may have specific procedures that need to be followed in case of an accident, such as contacting their insurance company. Make sure to also get a copy of the police report, as it may be required by the rental car company. Additionally, be sure to keep all receipts and documentation related to the accident, as these may be necessary for an insurance claim. By following these steps, you can ensure that the process of handling a car accident with a rental car in Marbella is smooth and stress-free.

Conclusion

Getting into a car accident can be a scary experience, especially if it happens in a foreign country where the rules and procedures may be unfamiliar. However, by following the right steps, we can minimise the stress and ensure that we handle the situation effectively. In Marbella, Spain, it's essential to call the police, fill out the European claim form, exchange information with the other driver, and take photos of the accident situation. It's also crucial to inform your insurance company and avoid admitting fault or leaving the scene. By being prepared and knowing what to do, we can stay safe and protect ourselves in case of a car accident.