In this second article, we will deal with the technical aspects if you are unfortunately involved in an accident overseas.
Try not to admit liaibility.
You may be asked for, and should be prepared to produce your driving licence, the registration document for the vehicle to prove ownership although other evidence may be acceptable and your insurance certificate or Green Card (which has for many years been the most widely accepted evidence of insurance for foreign registered vehicles).
It is ok for you to complete and sign European Accident Statement as it is simply a method of ensuring that the parties to an accident exchange the relevant information and details of the accident. Make sure that you retain a copy and you understand what the other person has written.
If the police are involved, again, stay calm, listen carefully and if you experience difficulty in understanding them, try and explain that you need an interpreter.
In some countries drivers may be arrested and their vehicles impounded, when the accident is serious, to allow time for fault to be determined. If this happens, ask to contact the British Consul or equivalent as soon as possible.
If your car is immobilised, notify your insurers as soon as possible. If it is driveable, then it is usually acceptable to wait until you return to the UK but check with your insurers before embarking on your trip, particularly if you are going to be abroad for more than 14 days duration. You should have been provided with a name and contact details of a representative for your insurer when you advised your insurer of your intention to go abroad.