Involved in a traffic accident? This is what you must do immediately (step-by-step plan)
Step 1: Fill out the claim form correctly
After a traffic accident, it is important to fill out the claim form immediately. Please note the following:
- Note down the correct license plate number of all involved vehicles.
- Take clear photos of the accident.
- State the date of the accident on the claim form.
- Both of you sign the form.
- Give a clear description of the accident.
- List the details of other occupants on the back.
- Don’t have a form with you? Then use mobielschademelden.nl.
Step 2: Report the damage
Submit the completed claim form to us. We can help you handle the claim free of charge. You may also do this yourself through the opposing party’s insurer.
Don’t know who the insurer is? Then check the RDW website. Is it a foreign vehicle? Then consult the Dutch Motor Vehicle Insurers Bureau.
Please note: the insurer has up to 12 weeks to respond to your claim.
Step 3: Seek medical help
Do you have symptoms or pain after the accident? Contact your GP immediately. Ensure your symptoms are recorded in your medical file. The GP can refer you to, for example, a physiotherapist.
Tip: keep track of the days you were treated and what the costs were.
Step 4: Inform your employer or client
Are you employed? Report the (temporary) absence to your employer.
Are you a self-employed entrepreneur? Keep track of the days you were unable to work. Also keep your VAT returns and annual tax return. The insurer may ask for these.
Step 5: Gather evidence of damage to belongings
Were any items broken, such as your phone or clothing?
- Take photos of the damage.
- Keep the receipts for the purchase and repair.
Step 6: Keep your file up to date and request an advance if necessary
Note down all costs: from travel expenses to household help. If you can no longer bear the costs, request an advance. We will arrange this with the insurer.
Example: You are entitled to €5,000 in compensation. You have already received €2,500 in advances. Then €2,500 remains upon termination. Also read our blog: How much is my compensation?
Step 7: Closing the file
Have you recovered and are no further treatments required? Then we can close your file. We calculate your compensation, submit it to the insurer, and as soon as they approve, you will receive the payment.
Questions? Please contact us by phone or book a free introductory meeting right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Immediately fill out the claim form, noting down the correct license plate numbers of all involved vehicles, and take clear photos of the accident scene before moving anything, if it is safe to do so.
If you don’t have a physical form with you, you can easily use your smartphone to report the damage digitally via mobielschademelden.nl.
Once you submit your claim, the opposing party’s insurer has up to 12 weeks to officially respond to your damage report.
Keep precise track of the days you are unable to work due to your injuries. You must also keep your VAT returns and annual tax returns handy, as the insurer may request these to calculate your lost income.
Yes. If items like your phone, glasses, or clothing were damaged during the crash, take photos of the broken items and keep the original purchase and repair receipts to include in your claim.
If your ongoing costs (such as medical bills, travel expenses, or household help) become too difficult to bear, you can request a financial advance. We can arrange this directly with the insurer on your behalf.
