What To Do if You Have a Car Accident
What to Do After a Car Accident in Spain: A Step-by-Step Guide
Car accidents are stressful, whether you are a resident or a visitor in Spain. Knowing the correct steps to take will help you stay safe, protect your rights, and avoid unnecessary complications. At SGM Abogados, we guide clients through the legal and insurance processes that follow a road accident. Below, we explain the most important steps you should follow.
1. Ensure Safety First
Stop your vehicle immediately and switch on your hazard lights.
Place the mandatory warning triangle or, as of 2026, use the new V-16 emergency light, which is replacing triangles in Spain. The V-16 is a small flashing beacon that is placed on the roof of the car to make your vehicle visible without the need to step onto the road, greatly improving safety.
Move to a safe location if possible and check if anyone is injured.
2. Call Emergency Services if Needed
If there are injuries, dial 112 immediately to request medical and police assistance.
Even in minor accidents, it can be useful to have a police report if there is disagreement between drivers.
3. Exchange Information with the Other Driver(s)
You will need:
Full name and contact details.
Vehicle registration number.
Driving licence number.
Insurance company and policy number.
If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle positions, damages, road signs, and any skid marks. This evidence can be crucial for insurance claims.
4. Fill in the European Accident Statement (“Parte Amistoso de Accidente”)
This standard form is provided by insurance companies in Spain. Both drivers should:
Complete the form together, agreeing on the circumstances.
Clearly mark the point of impact on the car diagram.
Sign the form — without signatures, it is not valid.
If the other party refuses to cooperate, make detailed notes and take photographs.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
You must inform your insurer within 7 days of the accident. Send them the accident statement and any supporting evidence. Failure to notify in time could affect your coverage.
6. Medical Reports
If you suffer even minor injuries (for example, whiplash), visit a hospital or medical centre immediately. A contemporaneous medical report is essential if you later need to claim compensation.
7. Police Report (If Applicable)
If the police attended the scene, request a copy of their report. It can take a few days to be available but is very useful when there is a dispute about responsibility.
8. Legal Assistance
If the accident involves injuries, serious damages, or disputes with insurers, it is highly advisable to seek legal advice. At SGM Abogados, we can guide our clients by recommending them to the best accident layers who can assist by :
Reviewing accident reports and medical documentation.
Negotiating with insurance companies.
Handling claims for compensation.
Representing you in court if necessary.
New Rules: V-16 Emergency Light
From January 1, 2026, the traditional warning triangles will be phased out and replaced by the V-16 connected emergency light.
The V-16 device emits a flashing amber signal visible from 1 km away.
It connects to the DGT 3.0 platform, transmitting the vehicle’s location to alert other drivers in real time.
Until 2026, you may use either triangles or the V-16, but it is strongly recommended to switch early for safety.
Final Thoughts
Accidents happen unexpectedly, but knowing what to do can make a significant difference. Always prioritise safety, collect the right information, and seek professional help when needed.
📞 At SGM Abogados, we specialise in assisting both residents and international clients in Spain with all legal matters after an accident. If you need guidance, our multilingual team is here to support you every step of the way.
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