A car accident can happen in a few seconds, but the actions of drivers immediately after the impact are important for resolving the claim with the insurers. The Insurance and Pension Funds Supervisory Authority (ASF) recommends six essential precautions that drivers should take before considering the matter closed, even when there is only material damage and the vehicles can still drive. Leaving the scene without collecting certain information can later make it difficult to demonstrate how the accident occurred.
The first step is to check for injuries, even if the accident seems minor, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. If there are injuries, the ASF recommends requesting the presence of authorities and contacting 112 in emergency situations. Next, it is essential to collect the drivers' data, vehicle details and insurance information, including the license plate, insurance company name and policy number. The ASF warns that you should not rely solely on the possibility of finding the other person later through the license plate.
The article also highlights the importance of taking photographs of the damage and the scene, including the position of the vehicles, marks on the road, signage and other relevant elements that may help reconstruct the situation. Whenever possible, contact details of potential witnesses should also be collected, which can be particularly important when each driver gives a different version of the accident. Drivers should fill out the Friendly Motor Vehicle Accident Statement, but the ASF clarifies that it is not necessary to agree with the other party or admit fault to sign the document.
After leaving the scene, it is necessary to report the accident to the insurer. If there is no other deadline established in the contract, the law provides that the claim must be reported within eight days of becoming aware of the occurrence. The report should include the circumstances, possible causes, date, location and damages suffered. The ASF warns that failure to comply with the policyholder's obligations may affect the insurer's coverage or the amount of the benefit. Even if the other driver admits fault, all these steps should be followed, as the determination of responsibility is subsequently analyzed by the insurers based on the available evidence.
