Stay Calm and Work Through the Steps

An accident far from home, possibly in a language you do not speak, is one of the most stressful things that can happen on a road trip. Having a clear sequence to follow keeps you safe and protects you legally and financially.

Step 1: Make the Scene Safe

• Stop immediately and switch on your hazard lights.
• Put on your reflective vest before leaving the vehicle.
• Place your warning triangle at the required distance behind the scene.
• Move to safety away from traffic if the vehicles are drivable and the law allows.

Step 2: Check for Injuries and Call for Help

Check everyone involved. If anyone is hurt, call the local emergency number immediately. Across much of Europe, 112 reaches emergency services and connects you to operators who often speak English.

Step 3: Involve the Police When Required

In several Balkan countries, the police must attend if there are injuries, significant damage, or a dispute over fault — and you may need their report for any insurance claim. When in doubt, call them. Do not move vehicles before they arrive if the law requires the scene to be preserved.

Step 4: Complete the European Accident Statement

The European Accident Statement (constat amiable) is a standardised form recognised across Europe. Both drivers complete it together to record what happened. Because the layout is identical in every language, you can fill in your copy in your own language and it still matches the other driver's. Carry a blank copy in your glovebox.

Step 5: Gather Evidence

• Photograph all vehicles, positions, damage, road signs and the wider scene.
• Note the other vehicle's plate, make, model and insurance details.
• Collect names and contact details of any witnesses.
• Record the location, date and time.

Step 6: Notify Your Insurer

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. If you carry a Green Card, have it ready — it identifies your cover to foreign authorities and insurers.

Overcoming the Language Barrier

Keep a translation app on your phone, and consider saving key phrases offline in the local language. Photos and the standardised accident form do much of the communicating for you.

Prevention Is the Best Plan

The best accident is the one that never happens. RoadRadar helps you avoid trouble in the first place with real-time alerts for hazards, checkpoints and speed cameras — keeping you aware and unhurried on unfamiliar roads.