Accident Abroad! How to Deal With an Accident in Europe on Your Motorhome or Campervan Trip

1. Safety First

The first and most important step after an accident is to remain calm. Accidents can be frightening, but staying composed will help you think clearly and take the necessary steps. Start by making sure everyone involved is safe.

• Hazard lights: Switch on your hazard lights to alert other road users that there has been an accident.
• High-vis: Put on a high-visibility jacket (In many European countries this is actually a legal requirement, so make sure you’ve taken one for each passenger on your trip).
• Warning triangle: Place a warning triangle at least 30 metres (approx. 100 feet) behind your vehicle to warn approaching drivers.
• Location: Get to a safe place (usually off the side of the road) if possible, especially if you’re on a busy road or motorway.
• Emergency services: If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately. The universal emergency number across Europe is 112, so it will work wherever you are. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s often wise to call the police so that an official report can be made. If you’re unable to move your vehicle due to damage or safety concerns, leave it where it is and wait for help.
• Photos: If you possibly can, it’s also a really good idea to take photographs of the accident scene on your phone from different angles (provided those angles are safe to stand and take pictures from). They should show the position of the vehicles, any damage, any road signs and the conditions (such as weather or road markings). These photos could prove invaluable during insurance claims.

A police report can be very helpful when filing an insurance claim, especially if there’s a disagreement about who was at fault. The information you provide to the police and the emergency services can be invaluable.

• Location: Use GPS if possible to pinpoint your location.
• People: The number of people involved in the accident and any injuries.
• Vehicles: Description of the vehicles involved (makes, models, registrations).
• Hazards: Any immediate hazards (eg. fuel spills or blocked road, etc).

2. Exchange Details

Once everyone is safe and any immediate concerns have been addressed, exchange information with the other driver(s) involved.

• Details: Provide your full name and address, and ensure the same in return.
• Vehicles: You must note any registration numbers, plus the makes, models and colours of the vehicles involved.
• Insurance: Provide details, including policy numbers, of your insurance and ensure you get the same in return.

3. European Accident Statement Form

Many European countries use a standardised accident form, which is known as the European Accident Statement (Constat Amiable). This allows both parties involved to record details of the accident and agree on the circumstances.You should fill in the form carefully and accurately. If you disagree with any details provided by the other party (or parties), then do not sign the form. Keep a copy for yourself and give one to the other party. This European Accident Statement form is not an admission of guilt but simply a record of what happened. It helps insurers to process claims more efficiently.

4. Insurance

Contact your insurance company as soon as you possibly can after the accident. Most insurance policies require you to report any incident within a specified timeframe (often within 24 to 48 hours). Provide the details from the accident statement form, along with your photographs of the scene and damage (if you were able to take any). Also provide the police report (if applicable), and the contact details of any witnesses. If your vehicle needs to be recovered or repaired, your insurer should be able to advise you on the nearest approved garage or service centre.

If the other driver is uninsured: In the awful scenario where the other driver in the accident doesn’t have an insurance policy covering them for the vehicle involved,  you may still be able to claim compensation. The Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) handles claims for accidents involving uninsured or untraced drivers within the European Economic Area (EEA). To make a claim through the MIB you should report the accident to the local police. Collect as much information as possible about the other driver and vehicle, then contact your insurance company and follow their guidance on making a claim through the MIB.

Local rules and insurance cover: Insurance and traffic regulations can vary between European countries. Before you set off on your trip, check your motorhome insurance covers driving in Europe and includes roadside assistance and accident recovery. If it doesn’t, ensure you get these sorted and have them in place before you set off.

• Third-party liability (compulsory in all EU countries).
• Collision damage and comprehensive coverage.
• Breakdown cover (including recovery and repatriation).
• Personal injury cover for you and your passengers.

If your policy includes a Green Card, carry it with you. This document proves that you’ve got valid insurance coverage in Europe (though some insurers no longer require a Green Card for travel within the EU). It’s best to check the latest regulations before you go.

Language barriers and legal differences: Language problems can complicate the aftermath of an accident, through lack of understanding or misunderstanding. If you don’t speak the local language, consider carrying a multilingual accident statement form, or using a translation app.

In some countries admitting fault at the scene of a vehicle accident could affect your claim – even if you’re not at fault. If you’re in any doubt, make sure you avoid making any statements regarding liability. Let your insurance company handle it.

Repairs and repatriation: If your motorhome is so badly damaged that it can’t be driven, your insurance policy may cover repatriation (in other words, they may cover the cost and logistics for returning your motorhome to the UK). Alternatively, your insurer might arrange for it to be repaired locally. You should ensure you ask your insurance company the following questions so that you’re clear.

• Will the insurers cover the cost of repairs abroad?
• Will the insurers provide a replacement vehicle?
• What is the insurer’s process for arranging repatriation?

Making a claim: When you get back home, contact your insurer to finalise the claim. You should provide all of the necessary documents, so that things can be expedited in a timely fashion. Make sure you provide the European Accident Statement, any photos and videos of the accident, the police report (if available), plus any repair estimates and invoices. Most insurers aim to settle claims within a few weeks, but in cases that are particularly complex things may take a fair bit longer.

An accident abroad in your motorhome or campervan can be a stressful and unsettling experience. Knowing how to handle it correctly can make all the difference. As ever, preparation is key – so make sure you’ve got the right insurance coverage, that you carry a European Accident Statement, and that you familiarise yourself with local road rules before you set off. If you follow these steps, you should be in a very strong position to deal with mishaps quickly. Fingers crossed for you not needing this blog at all! Safe travels from all of us here at Maple Leisure!