What to do in the event of a traffic accident abroad? Follow these 5 rules and be hassle free

Summer holidays are a time for vacations and frequent travel abroad. However, not every trip may be pleasant – unfortunately, many drivers have experienced a traffic accident abroad. Such a situation can ruin your holiday and bring unexpected stress. But there’s no need to panic – thanks to international cooperation between insurance companies and institutions, you can handle everything from home, in your native language and with expert help.

After a road accident in another country, experts recommend taking these basic steps:

• Write down the license plate number of the at-fault vehicle. Based on this number, it’s possible to trace the insurer of the responsible party – and thereby the relevant claims representative.
• Call the police, especially if anyone is injured. In many countries, this is not only recommended but even required. Always ask for a copy of the police report, or at least official confirmation of the accident.
• Take as many photographs as possible. Capture the scene of the accident, the vehicles, the damage, license plates, and any injuries. The more documentation you have, the better.
• Get a medical check-up – even if you feel fine. Some problems may appear only later. Always keep the medical report – it is crucial evidence when claiming damages. Without local medical documentation, it will be very hard to prove anything later. Don’t worry if the report is in a foreign language – medical terms are often international or in Latin and can be translated easily.
• Contact your insurance company or assistance service. Most vehicle insurance policies today include roadside assistance, which can help with towing, repairs, alternative transport, or accommodation. Ask what’s covered under your policy – and make use of it.

Following these steps will significantly simplify the resolution of your insurance claim. The Green Card system, which connects European and some non-European countries, means that you’re entitled to compensation even when the accident happens outside your home country. You don’t need to handle the issue on-site – the claim can be processed after you return home. This way, you can avoid dealing with a foreign language or navigating foreign legal systems.

Every insurance company in the system has its own claims representative in other countries – an entity that processes claims on behalf of the insurer.

“It’s important to know that the actual assessment of the claim often depends on the law of the country where the accident occurred,” warns Filip Glézl from the Spring Walk law firm. So if, for example, you are hit by a local driver in the Czech Republic, the amount of compensation will be determined under Czech law. These laws define what can be claimed and in what amounts.