Guidelines for Actions Following a Car Accident Beyond European Union Territories

When travelling abroad by car, it's essential to be prepared for unforeseen incidents. Here's a guide to help you navigate through a car accident in another country, focusing on driving through France.

In the event of a car accident, your immediate actions are crucial. Exchange personal details with the other party involved and document witnesses if necessary. It's also advisable to have emergency numbers, the breakdown service of the automobile club, and the claims hotline of your own insurance readily available.

For cross-border accidents, the International Insurance Card (formerly "Green Card") with relevant insurance data should be carried in the vehicle. In case of difficulties with cross-border claims settlement, the European Consumer Centre Germany offers free support. The National Ombudsman for insurance companies to consult in such situations is the Versicherungsombudsmann e. V. (Insurance Ombudsman) based in Berlin, reachable at Postfach 08 06 32, 10006 Berlin, or via www.versicherungsombudsmann.de.

Safety should always be a priority. Wear a reflective vest and secure the accident scene. Inform the police about the accident; in some countries, no patrol car is sent for property damage. Call the emergency services (Europe-wide: 112) in case of personal injuries.

Fill out the European accident report carefully and completely, preferably together with the other party involved. The following documents are required for the claim: a completed accident report, a cost estimate or expert opinion, and additional evidence such as replacement car rental receipts if necessary.

In case of self-inflicted accidents, the motor vehicle liability insurance covers damages to the other party's vehicle, while own damages are only covered by a comprehensive insurance. For accidents caused by others, the claim should be made via the designated claims settlement representative of the foreign insurance in Germany. The contact details can be obtained from the Central Office of Automobile Insurers.

It's important to note that many rental contracts require the involvement of the police, even for minor damages. Failure to inform the rental company or the police may result in the loss of insurance coverage.

Recent reports suggest an increase in complaints about car rental companies abroad. Detailed information on traffic law procedures in France is available from the ECC. If a rental vehicle is involved in an accident, the rental company should be informed immediately.

Our website is a German-language service and news portal that provides information to readers about life and work abroad. This article is intended to help travelers navigate through car accidents in France, but the principles apply to many other countries as well. Stay safe on the roads!

Guidelines for Actions Following a Car Accident Beyond European Union Territories