A car accident is always unexpected and stressful. Even when the impact is minor, the confusion of the moment can easily lead a driver to forget essential procedures. However, knowing exactly what to do in the first minutes makes a major difference for safety, legal compliance and protecting your rights.
This guide explains clearly and objectively what you should do immediately after a road accident in Portugal.
1. Ensure safety at the scene
Your first priority must always be the safety of everyone involved.
Essential steps:
- Turn on the hazard lights immediately.
- Move the vehicle to a safe spot if possible.
- Place the warning triangle at least 30 metres behind the car.
- Put on the reflective vest before stepping out of the vehicle.
When there is doubt about safety, move away from traffic and avoid further collisions.
2. Check for injuries
If there are injured people, even if the injuries seem minor:
- Provide basic assistance without moving the victims unless there is imminent danger.
- Call 112 immediately.
Medical teams and police will assess the situation and take the appropriate actions. Some injuries are not visible right away, so professional evaluation is essential.
3. Do not leave the scene
Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime. You must remain at the location until:
- assistance has been provided,
- information has been exchanged,
- documents have been filled in,
- and authorities have arrived, when necessary.
Leaving early can result in criminal responsibility and loss of insurance rights.
4. Exchange information with the other driver
Regardless of who is at fault, always collect:
- full name
- phone number
- number plate
- vehicle make and model
- insurance company and policy number
- validity date of the insurance
These details are crucial to avoid future disputes and to speed up the insurer’s process.
5. Fill in the European Accident Statement
The European Accident Statement (“Declaração Amigável”) is the document used to report the accident to your insurer. It should be completed on-site, calmly and without skipping details.
Include:
- date and time
- sketch of the accident
- visible damage
- circumstances
- signatures of both drivers
A clear document helps insurers analyse the situation and avoid delays.
6. Photograph the scene and all damage
Photos are extremely important, especially if the drivers disagree on what happened.
Make sure to capture:
- position of the vehicles
- exterior damage
- road conditions
- traffic signs, signals or lane markings
- intersections or relevant angles
The more complete the documentation, the easier the process.
7. When to call the police
You must call the police if:
- there are injuries
- the other driver has no insurance
- there is disagreement about the accident
- one of the parties refuses to complete the statement
- damage is substantial
- there are signs of alcohol or drug use
The police report becomes an official document for insurance assessment.
8. Report the accident to your insurer
After leaving the scene safely, you must notify your insurer within the legal deadline:
- 5 working days for standard accidents
- 2 working days in case of theft or fire
Send:
- the completed Accident Statement
- photos
- witness contacts
- any relevant documents
The insurer will schedule the inspection and explain the next steps.
9. Do not repair the vehicle before the inspection
Repairs must only begin after receiving approval from the insurer.
Otherwise, coverage may be denied.
10. Follow up on the claim
After the accident, monitor:
- the inspection report
- the assigned liability
- repair deadlines
- temporary replacement vehicle (if applicable)
Clear communication with the insurer helps resolve the case efficiently.
Knowing how to act after a car accident prevents mistakes, reduces conflict and protects your rights as a driver. In any situation, stay calm, secure the area, document everything and follow the required legal and administrative procedures. An accident is never pleasant, but with the right steps, the entire process becomes safer and more manageable.