Car accident – what now? This checklist will guide you.

Do you know what to do in the event of a road accident? Many road users are unsure of what to do in an emergency. Our checklist contains all the important steps – in the right order.

1. Stop the vehicle

• Switch on your hazard warning lights and your headlights (dipped).
• If you are using a freeway (motorway, Autobahn), immediately drive onto the hard shoulder if at all possible.
• Put on a high-visibility vest on 
• Go to a safe place away from the highway.

2. Assess the situation

• Are you unhurt? Are you feeling alright?
• How many vehicles were involved in the accident? Note the types and locations of the vehicles.
• Has anyone been injured?
• Is there a danger of fire or explosion; are hazardous goods involved?

3. Secure the accident site

• Set up your warning triangle at least 50 meters from the site of the accident, or if the traffic is moving quickly, at least 100 meters away.
• It is not permitted to move anything at the scene of the accident unless this is essential in order to protect injured people or for the safety of other road users.
• Do not step back onto the road.

4. Give first aid

• Remove injured persons from the danger zone.
• Provide first aid, using the first-aid kit in your car.

5. Alert the emergency services

• Call the police (117), the ambulance service (144) or, in case of fire, the fire department (118). In the EU, the emergency number is 112.
• Indicate your precise location. Freeway (motorway, Autobahn): Number, direction of travel, kilometers, last junction or exit).

6. Attend to the injured

• Take care of any injured people, monitor them and talk to them.

7. Document the damage to the vehicle

• If possible, photograph  the damaged vehicles from all sides. When doing so, however, never put yourself and others in danger. 

8. Report vehicle damage

• If you were personally involved in the accident, report the damage to AXA first if possible. You can do this online or via your myAXA portal or the myAXA app with just a few clicks. Alternatively, you can call us on 0800 809 809, and we'll guide you through the process step by step. For example, we'll be happy to organize a recovery service for you straight away.