{"id":7417,"date":"2026-07-29T09:52:29","date_gmt":"2026-07-29T09:52:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/?p=7417"},"modified":"2026-07-29T10:46:44","modified_gmt":"2026-07-29T10:46:44","slug":"eerste-24-uur-schadegeval-in-spanje","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/en\/eerste-24-uur-schadegeval-in-spanje\/","title":{"rendered":"The First 24 Hours After an Accident in Spain: What Should You Do\u2014and What Should You Avoid?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>\u201cShould I call the insurance company first or take pictures first?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After an accident in Spain, dozens of questions often race through your mind. While you're trying to get the situation under control, it's not always clear which steps to take first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fortunately, it doesn't have to be complicated. By staying calm and following a logical order, you can prevent many problems, and the claims process usually goes much more smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this practical guide, you will read exactly what you should do the best during the first 24 hours after an accident in Spain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\">The first 10 minutes after an accident in Spain: safety first<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first few minutes after a <strong>Claim in Spain<\/strong> often chaotic. Yet, there is one priority that always remains the same: <strong>First, ensure your own safety and the safety of others.<\/strong> Only when the situation is under control and further damage has been minimized as much as possible, is it time to take photos or contact your insurer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">What do you do first?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Call <a href=\"tel:112\"><strong>112<\/strong><\/a> in case of injury, fire, or any other emergency.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Try to limit further damage, but only if it can be done safely.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide first aid if necessary and follow the instructions of emergency services.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">Depending on the claim<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In a traffic accident<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Move your vehicle only when it is safe or when directed by the police.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In case of damage to your home<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Shut off water, gas, or electricity if necessary to prevent further damage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Warn neighbors or the caretaker when other homes may also be affected.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In a medical emergency<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Go to the nearest emergency room immediately or call <a href=\"tel:112\">112<\/a> when the situation is serious.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Remember:<\/strong> at each <strong>Claim in Spain<\/strong> Safety always comes before administration. Once everyone is safe, you can focus on the next steps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\">Within 1 hour of an accident in Spain: gather evidence<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once the situation is safe, it is important to record as much information as possible. Good evidence helps to clarify what exactly happened later and can speed up the claims process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">Always gather this information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Take overview photos and clear photos of the damage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Record a short video of the entire situation if necessary.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Note the date, time, location, and what happened.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Save the contact details of those involved and witnesses.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">Depending on the claim<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In a traffic accident<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Note the other driver's license plate number and insurance information.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fill out the European accident statement form together.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you do not agree on the question of guilt, then only note the facts and do not sign anything with which you do not agree.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In case of damage to your home<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Photograph not only the damage, but also the probable cause.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Don't throw away damaged items yet.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In case of theft or burglary<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Report to the police as soon as possible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Always ask for a copy or reference number of the declaration.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The clearer the evidence after a <strong>Claim in Spain<\/strong>, the simpler it is for the insurer to assess your file.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\">Within 24 hours of an accident in Spain: report the damage correctly<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once the first situation is under control, it is important to your <strong>Claim in Spain<\/strong> to report as soon as possible. You don't need to have all the documents gathered yet. An initial report with the most important information is usually sufficient to start your file.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">What do you best pass on immediately?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Report the damage to your broker or insurer by email as soon as possible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Please provide your policy number, the date, the location, and a brief description of what happened.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Please attach some clear photos of the damage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Save invoices, reports, and other documents. You can add them later if needed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ask who will be your contact person and what next steps you can expect.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The faster you report a claim in Spain, the sooner your insurer or broker can start your file and guide you further.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After the initial damage report, the further assessment of your case begins. Please also read <a href=\"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/en\/schadeafhandeling-in-spanje-wat-kunt-u-realistisch-verwachten\/\">What you can realistically expect from claims handling in Spain<\/a>, from the initial assessment to potential compensation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image has-custom-border\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/infographic-1-20260708-1.png\" alt=\"Stappen na een schadegeval in Spanje.\" class=\"wp-image-7421\" style=\"border-radius:6px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/infographic-1-20260708-1.png 1536w, https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/infographic-1-20260708-1-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/infographic-1-20260708-1-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/infographic-1-20260708-1-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/infographic-1-20260708-1-18x12.png 18w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1536px) 100vw, 1536px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">Have this information handy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Your policy number.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The date, time, and location of the incident.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A brief description of what happened.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Photos of the damage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contact details of any involved parties or witnesses.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Relevant documents, such as a European accident statement or a police report.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\">Common mistakes to avoid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After <strong>Claim in Spain<\/strong> You want to solve the problem as quickly as possible, of course. However, there are some errors that can cause unnecessary delays or discussions later on. By avoiding these, the claims handling process usually goes much smoother.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Avoid these common mistakes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Do not immediately admit liability. Stick to the facts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not carry out definitive repairs without consultation, unless it is necessary to prevent further damage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not discard damaged property before taking pictures or getting approval from the insurer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep invoices for emergency repairs and preferably pay using a traceable payment method.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Always communicate important agreements by email as well, so that everything can be clearly followed up.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A small mistake can lead to extra questions later. By documenting everything correctly from the beginning, you prevent a lot of unnecessary delays.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/niet-doen-eerste-24-uur-schade-spanje-1024x576.png\" alt=\"Infografiek met vijf zaken die u niet mag doen in de eerste 24 uur na schadegeval in Spanje.\" class=\"wp-image-7420\" style=\"border-radius:6px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/niet-doen-eerste-24-uur-schade-spanje-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/niet-doen-eerste-24-uur-schade-spanje-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/niet-doen-eerste-24-uur-schade-spanje-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/niet-doen-eerste-24-uur-schade-spanje-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/niet-doen-eerste-24-uur-schade-spanje-18x10.png 18w, https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/niet-doen-eerste-24-uur-schade-spanje.png 1672w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\">What are you allowed to repair yourself and what not?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After <strong>Claim in Spain<\/strong> You want to resolve the situation as quickly as possible, of course. However, it is important not to start with definitive repairs immediately. In many cases, the insurer or expert will want to assess the damage first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">What is usually allowed?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Take emergency measures to prevent further damage, such as temporarily stopping a leak or covering a window.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Take clear photos before and after each procedure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep all invoices for emergency repairs performed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">What are you better off waiting for?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Major or final repairs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Replacing damaged parts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Work that no longer makes the original damage visible.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\">Summary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>First, ensure your own safety and that of others.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Then gather as much evidence and relevant information as possible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Report the damage to your broker or insurer as soon as possible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not perform final repairs without consultation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep all photos, documents, and invoices carefully.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good preparation and clear damage reporting make a big difference. This way, your broker or insurer can guide you more quickly and effectively in the further settlement of your claim in Spain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\">Frequently Asked Questions about the first 24 hours after a car accident in Spain<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary><strong>How quickly do I need to report a claim in Spain?<\/strong><\/summary>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is wise to a <strong>Claim in Spain<\/strong> Report it as soon as possible, even if you haven't gathered all the documents yet. An initial report with the most important information is usually sufficient to start your file. You can add extra photos or documents later.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:12px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary><strong>May I have the damage repaired immediately?<\/strong><\/summary>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This depends on the situation. Emergency measures to prevent further damage are usually permitted. For larger or permanent repairs, it is best to wait for approval from your broker, insurer, or a claims expert. This will prevent disputes about compensation.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:12px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary><strong>What if the other driver doesn't want to sign the damage report?<\/strong><\/summary>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stay calm and note down the other driver's details. Take plenty of photos of the vehicles and the situation. In case of an argument or if there are any injuries, it's advisable to call the police. Afterward, report the accident to your broker or insurance company as soon as possible.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:12px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary><strong>What photos should I take after an accident?<\/strong><\/summary>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Take overview photos as well as detail photos of the damage. If possible, also photograph the cause of the damage and the surroundings. The clearer the picture of the situation, the easier your file can be assessed later.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:12px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary><strong>Is my damage always compensated?<\/strong><\/summary>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not every damage is automatically covered by your insurance. This depends on the cause of the damage, the terms of your policy, and the coverage you have chosen. Therefore, it is important to have a <strong>Claim in Spain<\/strong> always report as fully as possible so that your broker or insurer can assess your case correctly.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What to do in the first 24 hours after an accident in Spain: safety first, gather evidence, and report correctly. Avoid mistakes with this guide.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":7414,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[42],"tags":[48],"class_list":["post-7417","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-schade-claims","tag-praktische-gids"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7417","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7417"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7417\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7423,"href":"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7417\/revisions\/7423"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7414"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7417"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7417"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/grupoxandra.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7417"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}