Experiencing a car accident is stressful enough at home, but when it happens in a foreign country, the complexities multiply. For Danish drivers traveling through Europe, understanding how to navigate the claims process abroad is essential. This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions for handling insurance claims when accidents happen outside of Denmark.
Before You Travel: Essential Preparations
Proper preparation before your journey can significantly simplify the claims process if an accident occurs:
Documentation to Carry
- European Accident Statement (EAS): This standardized form (sometimes called the "Agreed Statement of Facts on Motor Vehicle Accident") is recognized across Europe and helps document accident details in a format accepted by insurers throughout the continent. Request copies from your Danish insurer before traveling.
- Insurance Certificate: Always carry your certificate of insurance that proves you have at least the minimum required coverage.
- Green Card: While no longer required for many European countries, it remains useful documentation in case of accidents.
- Vehicle Registration Documents: Original vehicle registration papers should always accompany the vehicle.
- Emergency Contact Information: Keep your insurer's international claims hotline number easily accessible.
Insurance Verification
Before departure, contact your Danish insurer to:
- Confirm your coverage extends to your destination countries
- Understand any coverage limitations or exclusions that apply abroad
- Verify claim procedures specific to international incidents
- Determine if your insurer has partner garages or preferred repair networks in your destination countries
At the Accident Scene: Immediate Actions
If you're involved in an accident while driving abroad, follow these critical steps:
1. Ensure Safety First
- Check for injuries and call emergency services if needed (112 works throughout Europe)
- Move to a safe location if possible
- Set up warning triangles (required in most European countries)
- Wear high-visibility vests if exiting the vehicle (mandatory in many countries)
2. Document Everything
- Photos: Take extensive photos of the accident scene, all vehicles involved (including license plates), damage details, road conditions, traffic signs, and the surrounding area
- Video: If possible, record a brief video documenting the scene
- Witness Information: Collect contact details from any witnesses
- Location Details: Note the exact location (street/road names, kilometer markers, or GPS coordinates)
3. Exchange Information
Collect and provide the following from all parties involved:
- Full names and contact information
- Vehicle registration details
- Insurance company names and policy numbers
- Driver's license numbers
4. Complete the European Accident Statement
The EAS (or "blue form") is designed to record all relevant accident details:
- Complete the form at the scene with the other driver(s) if possible
- Use the diagram to illustrate the accident clearly
- Ensure all parties sign the form
- Do not alter the form after signatures have been added
- Keep your copy separate from the other driver's copy
5. Police Reports
Police involvement varies by country and accident severity:
- In many countries, police must be called if there are injuries
- Some countries require police reports for all accidents involving foreign vehicles
- If police attend, request a copy of their report or at minimum, note the report number and officer information
Country-Specific Considerations
Different European countries have distinct requirements and procedures:
Western Europe
- Germany: Police (Polizei) must be called for accidents with injuries or significant property damage. The "Unfallbericht" is their accident report form.
- France: If no injuries, police involvement is not mandatory, but a declaration ("constat amiable") must be completed within 5 days.
- Italy: Police (Polizia or Carabinieri) attendance is required for accidents with injuries. Claims must be filed within 2 days.
- Spain: Police (Policía) must be notified for accidents with injuries. The "Declaración Amistosa de Accidente" is their version of the EAS.
Eastern Europe
- Poland: Police (Policja) must be called for all accidents involving foreign vehicles.
- Czech Republic: Police must be called for damage exceeding approximately €1,400.
- Hungary: Police attendance is mandatory for all accidents involving foreign vehicles, regardless of severity.
Scandinavian Neighbors
- Sweden: Police need only be involved if there are injuries or disputes about responsibility.
- Norway: Similar to Denmark, police involvement is required only for accidents with injuries or serious damage.
Filing Your Claim: The Process
Once immediate accident response is complete, you'll need to initiate the claims process:
1. Notify Your Danish Insurer
- Contact your insurer as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours
- Use their international claims hotline if available
- Follow their specific guidance on next steps
2. Claims Representatives in Different Scenarios
Who handles your claim depends on the accident circumstances:
If You're At Fault:
- Your Danish insurer will handle the claim
- They'll coordinate with their international network or partners in the country where the accident occurred
If Another Party is At Fault:
- You can file a claim directly with the at-fault driver's insurer
- Alternatively, many Danish insurers will handle the process for you through the Green Card system
- In EU countries, you can work with the foreign insurer's Danish representative
3. Claims Representatives System in the EU
The EU Motor Insurance Directive requires all insurers operating in the EU to appoint claims representatives in every member state. This means:
- If you're in an accident caused by a driver from another EU country, you can handle the claim through that insurer's representative in Denmark
- This system allows you to communicate in Danish and follow familiar procedures
- Your Danish insurer can help you identify the appropriate claims representative
4. Documentation Submission
Prepare to submit:
- Completed European Accident Statement
- All photos and videos from the scene
- Police reports (with official translations if required)
- Witness statements
- Repair estimates or invoices
- Medical reports for any injuries
- Receipts for any emergency expenses (towing, accommodation, etc.)
Vehicle Repairs Abroad
If your vehicle needs repair while still abroad:
Immediate Repairs
- Consult with your insurer before authorizing repairs if possible
- Many Danish insurers have agreements with repair networks across Europe
- If using a repair shop not in your insurer's network, obtain detailed estimates
- Keep all invoices and documentation in both the local language and English if possible
Vehicle Not Drivable
If your vehicle cannot be safely driven:
- Most comprehensive Danish policies include repatriation coverage for bringing the vehicle back to Denmark
- Alternatives include local repair or vehicle abandonment/scrapping (in extreme cases)
- Temporary accommodation and alternative transportation costs may be covered depending on your policy
Handling Claim Disputes
If disputes arise during the claims process:
Language and Communication Issues
- Request an official translator for important communications
- Consider using your Danish insurer as an intermediary
- Ensure all important communications are in writing
Responsibility Disputes
- Local traffic rules and right-of-way provisions apply where the accident occurred
- Your Danish insurer can help interpret foreign liability determinations
- If necessary, consult with a local attorney who specializes in traffic law
Escalation Procedures
If you're not satisfied with the handling of your claim:
- First, follow your Danish insurer's complaint procedure
- If unresolved, contact the Danish Insurance Complaints Board (Ankenævnet for Forsikring)
- For cross-border disputes, you can contact FIN-NET, the European financial dispute resolution network
Conclusion
Filing insurance claims for accidents abroad involves navigating unfamiliar systems and potential language barriers, but proper preparation and following the right procedures can significantly ease the process. Remember that your Danish insurer remains your primary point of contact and advocate in these situations, regardless of where in Europe the accident occurs.
By understanding the necessary documentation, country-specific requirements, and claims procedures before you travel, you'll be better equipped to handle the unexpected if an accident occurs during your European journey. Keep all documentation organized, communicate clearly with all parties, and leverage the support systems available through your Danish insurer and European claims representatives.