Our advice is clear: yes. Even in the event of an accident without another party, it is advisable to complete an accident report form. Although this is not a legal requirement, it helps to record the circumstances of the accident accurately and enables your claim to be handled more quickly and efficiently.
What is an accident without another party?
An accident without another party, also known as a single-vehicle accident, is a road traffic accident in which no other road user is involved.
Common examples include:
- Hitting a bollard, wall or fence
- Colliding with a tree or crash barrier
- Damage caused after taking evasive action
- Parking or skidding damage where only your own vehicle is damaged
Even if no other party is involved, it is still important to report the accident correctly.
Why complete an accident report form even without another party?
Based on our experience as an insurance broker, we recommend completing a European Accident Statement even for a single-vehicle accident.
The form helps record the circumstances of the accident clearly. This ensures your insurer immediately receives all relevant information, allowing your claim to be processed more smoothly.
Complete the form as accurately as possible and include:
- The date and time
- The exact location
- A clear description of what happened
- A sketch of the accident
- Photographs of the damage and the surroundings
The more complete the information, the faster your claim can generally be handled.
Which insurance covers damage in a single-vehicle accident?
Whether damage to your own vehicle is covered depends on the cover included in your motor insurance policy.
- Third-Party Liability Insurance: Third-Party Liability (TPL) Insurance covers damage you cause to other people or their property, whether on public or private property. Damage to your own vehicle following an accident without another party is not covered.
- Comprehensive Insurance: If you have Mini Comprehensive or Fully Comprehensive Insurance, damage to your own vehicle may be covered, depending on your chosen cover and policy conditions.
Not sure what your policy covers? Our advisers will be happy to help you determine which cover applies.
When should you call the police?
In some situations, completing an accident report form is not enough and you should also contact the police.
This is particularly important if:
- Someone has been injured
- You have damaged public infrastructure such as a traffic sign, streetlight or crash barrier
- Your vehicle poses a danger to other road users
- The road is partially or completely blocked
In these situations, a police report can provide valuable support for your insurance claim.
How do you report an accident without another party?
Report the accident to your insurer or insurance broker as soon as possible.
If possible, provide:
- The completed accident report form
- Clear photographs of the damage
- Photographs of the accident scene
- Any additional information that helps explain the circumstances
A complete claim file allows your insurer to start processing your claim more quickly.
Had an accident without another party? Van Dessel is here to help.
After an accident, it is important to know what steps to take. Should you complete an accident report form? Which insurance policy will cover the damage? How should you report the claim?
Our specialists will guide you through every stage of the claims process, from reporting the accident to the final settlement of your claim. You can count on personal advice and professional support.
If you have any questions about an accident or your motor insurance, feel free to contact us. We will be happy to help.
