What to do after a collision

Four steps at the scene

1. 1.Make the scene safe

   Switch on hazard lights, place a warning triangle and put on a high-visibility vest. If the vehicles are obstructing traffic and no one is injured, move them off the road, but first photograph their positions.

2. 2.Assess whether emergency services are needed

   Injuries, a driver leaving the scene, suspected alcohol use or disagreement about what happened: call the police in any of these cases. Otherwise, a joint accident statement is sufficient.

3. 3.Document the scene

   Take photos from several distances: an overall view, vehicle positions relative to signs and road markings, close-ups of damage and registration plates. Also photograph the other driver's vehicle registration document and insurance policy.

4. 4.Write a statement and draw a sketch

   Complete details of both parties, a description of the damage and a diagram of the incident. You can attach a photo of your own sketch to your submission. Make sure both drivers sign.

What to record at the scene

Missing details are the most common reason for delays in settling a claim.

• First and last names, addresses and phone numbers of both drivers
• Vehicle owners' details if they are different from the drivers
• Makes, models and registration numbers of both vehicles
• The responsible party's liability insurer and policy number
• Date, time and exact location of the incident
• Description of visible damage to each vehicle
• Witness details, if any: first name, last name and phone number
• Sketch of how the incident happened and both drivers' signatures

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to call the police after a collision?

Not always. If nobody is injured and participants agree on who caused the incident, a joint statement is sufficient. Call the police if anyone is injured, the responsible driver flees, there is a suspicion they are under the influence, or there is disagreement about what happened.

What must a collision statement include?

Details of both drivers and vehicle owners, registration numbers, makes and models, the responsible party's insurer and third-party liability policy number, date, time and place of the incident, description of damage, a sketch of the situation and both parties' signatures. The responsible party's signature admitting fault greatly helps the subsequent settlement.

Why draw a sketch when there are photos?

Photos and your own sketch help describe vehicle positions, directions of travel and the point of contact. The sketch records its author's account; it does not by itself establish right of way or liability. You can attach a photo of your own sketch to the submission.

How much time do I have to report damage under the responsible party's third-party liability insurance?

As a rule, a claim under a vehicle owner's third-party liability insurance becomes time-barred three years after the injured party learned of the damage and the person responsible for remedying it. If the damage resulted from a criminal offence, the period is longer. It is still best not to wait: evidence fades much faster than deadlines expire.

When does my submission reach PGW?

Only when you select the consent box and press “Submit to PGW”. Filling in the form or downloading a copy does not send anything. The form does not notify your insurer or call emergency services.

Do I need an account to report a collision?

No. You can send a basic submission without registering. Afterwards, you can create a client account or sign in to your existing cases. Linking the submission to your account requires verification by PGW. The public website does not contain a case-file library.