What Should You Do in Case of an Accident or Damage? A Step-by-Step Procedure
In case of an accident or damage, following the correct steps quickly is critical for safety and for keeping the insurance and contract process valid. The procedure below provides a clear operational action plan you can apply immediately.
Note: To protect your coverage, incidents should be reported without delay and required documentation should be completed accurately.
Priority: Safety and Scene Control
Ensure personal safety first. If possible, move the vehicle to a safe location, turn on hazard lights, and place warning triangles where required. If there are injuries, call emergency services immediately.
Notify Authorities and Prepare Reports
Depending on the incident, police/gendarmerie involvement may be required. For injury accidents or cases involving public property, an official report is typically necessary. For minor material damage, a written accident statement and visual records usually support the process.
Take Photos and Collect Evidence
Take clear photos from multiple angles: damages, license plates, vehicle positions, road conditions, and surrounding environment. These records are essential for claims assessment and dispute prevention. Obtain Counterparty Information
Obtain Counterparty Information
Record the other party’s identification and contact details, vehicle registration details, and insurance information (if available). Missing information may cause delays or require additional verification.
Inform the Rental Company Immediately
Contact the rental company as soon as possible. Share location, damage details, vehicle condition, and any report/ticket information. This enables coordinated next steps and reduces operational downtime.
Vehicle Usability and Towing Process
If the vehicle is not safe to drive, towing or service support may be required. This should be coordinated with the rental company, as approvals and operational routing may apply based on contract rules.
Documentation Completion and Case Closure
Once reports, photos, and required documents are completed, the case is reviewed by the insurance/operations teams. Final responsibility and cost handling depend on the selected coverage package (CDW/excess/minor damage) and contract terms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
WHAT SHOULD I DO FIRST IF AN INCIDENT OCCURS?
Prioritize safety, call emergency services if needed, document the scene with photos, and contact the rental company immediately.
IS A POLICE REPORT ALWAYS REQUIRED?
Not always. Injury accidents and certain official scenarios typically require a report. For minor material damage, documentation and photos may be sufficient. Requirements depend on the incident type and local procedures.
WHY ARE PHOTOS IMPORTANT?
Photos are key evidence for damage assessment and insurance evaluation. They help speed up the process and reduce disputes.
WHAT IF THE VEHICLE CANNOT BE DRIVEN?
If the vehicle is not safe to drive, towing/service support is arranged in coordination with the rental company, based on contract and operational procedures.
