What to do after a car accident in the Netherlands

What to do after a car accident in the Netherlands

A car accident is always stressful, whether the damage is small or serious. Knowing what to do next can help you protect yourself, support your claim and avoid unnecessary problems with your insurer.

The first priority is safety. Check whether anyone is injured and, if needed, contact emergency services. If the situation allows, move the vehicles to a safe location and make sure traffic is not put at additional risk.

Once the immediate situation is under control, collect the necessary information. Exchange names, contact details, licence plate numbers and insurer details with the other party. Take clear photos of the damage, the surrounding road situation and any relevant signs or markings.

In the Netherlands, the European Claim Form is an important document after an accident. Completing it carefully helps create a clear record of what happened. Even when there is disagreement about who is at fault, it is still useful to document the facts as completely as possible.

After that, report the damage to your insurer as soon as possible. Delays can complicate the process, especially if the facts become unclear later. Keep copies of photos, forms and correspondence for your own records.

Your exact cover will determine what can be claimed. WA covers damage to others, WA+ adds certain external events, and All Risk also covers damage to your own vehicle in more situations.

If you need help understanding your coverage, visit our insurance overview. For support with the next steps after damage, you can contact us through our contact page.

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