Car accident! What next?

Filing an insurance claim requires careful attention to detail, especially in Poland where specific legal requirements must be followed. This comprehensive guide walks you through the process to ensure you receive proper compensation while meeting all legal obligations.

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

• If there's an accident or emergency, prioritize safety and health
• Call emergency services if needed (police, ambulance, fire department)
• Take necessary steps to prevent further damage if it's safe to do so

Step 2: Complete a Written Statement

• Ask the perpetrator of the accident about the third-party liability "OC" policy.
• If he/she does not remember or have the policy number you can check if the car is insured here clicking "Identification of TPL contract on the day of" link
• Remember that if participants in the collision cannot reach agreement about who is at fault, contacting the police is an appropriate option
• In Poland, a written accident statement ("oświadczenie o zdarzeniu drogowym") is legally accepted
• Failure to file a written statement can result in claim denial
• Both parties must sign this document at the scene when possible
• If police are called, they will prepare an official report that serves as this statement

Step 3: Document Everything

• Take photos of all damage from multiple angles
• Document road conditions and any relevant traffic signs
• Write down exactly what happened while it's fresh in your memory
• Collect contact information from any witnesses
• Save all receipts for emergency repairs or temporary accommodations

Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company

• Call the 24/7 claims hotline provided on your insurance card
• Provide all documentation including the written statement or police report

Step 5: Understand Legal Implications

• In Poland, causing a road hazard can result in fines up to 5000 PLN
• More serious violations may lead to court proceedings
• Third-party liability insurance (OC - Odpowiedzialność Cywilna) is mandatory in Poland
• Driving without valid OC coverage results in severe penalties and personal financial liability

Step 6: Work with the Claims Adjuster

• An adjuster might be assigned to your case (but usually you send photos to the insurance company)
• Be prepared for them to inspect the damage in person
• Provide any additional documentation they request
• Ask questions about coverage limits and deductibles

Step 7: Prepare for Potential Court Proceedings

• Keep all documentation organized in case your claim leads to court
• In serious accidents, criminal proceedings may run parallel to insurance claims
• Consider legal counsel if fault is disputed or injuries are involved
• Court decisions may impact insurance settlements

Step 8: Review the Settlement Offer

• Carefully review the compensation offered
• Compare it with your policy coverage
• Understand the impact of accepting a settlement on potential court cases
• Don't hesitate to ask for clarification or negotiate if needed

Important Tips for Poland

• OC (third-party liability) coverage is legally mandatory and covers damage to others
• AC (comprehensive) coverage is optional but covers your own vehicle
• Always have your insurance documents and driver's license with you
• Polish insurers may require specific forms that differ from other EU countries
• The statute of limitations for insurance claims in Poland is typically three years

Following these steps will help ensure compliance with Polish insurance and traffic regulations while maximizing your chance of a successful claim.