Handling a Car Accident in Denmark

When involved in a car accident in Denmark, your immediate actions are crucial for ensuring safety, fulfilling legal obligations under the færdselsloven (Danish Road Traffic Act), and properly managing any subsequent insurance claims. This guide outlines the mandatory steps to follow, from securing the scene to reporting the incident to your insurance provider.

Immediate Actions and Securing the Accident Scene

The moments immediately following an accident can be chaotic and stressful, but acting calmly and systematically is vital. Your primary responsibilities are to prevent further danger and render assistance.

When to Contact the Police (Politi)

While not every minor fender-bender requires police presence, Danish law (færdselsloven) specifies situations where reporting to the police is mandatory or highly advisable.

Mandatory Police Reporting (Call 112 or 114)

You are legally obliged to report an accident to the police if any of the following apply:

• Personal Injury: If anyone involved in the accident has sustained injuries, however minor, you must call 112 (emergency number). If the injuries are considerable, it is explicitly required.
• Serious Damage to Public Property: If traffic signs, road markings, traffic light systems, or other road installations are significantly damaged and cannot be immediately put back in order, you must inform the police (114 for non-emergencies) and take measures to warn other road users.
• Dispute Over Circumstances: If there is a serious disagreement between parties regarding how the accident occurred or who is at fault, police intervention can help establish facts.
• Uninsured, Intoxicated, or Fleeing Driver: If you suspect the other driver is uninsured, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or attempts to leave the scene (flugtbilist), contact 112 immediately.
• Inability to Exchange Information: If the other party is not present (e.g., you hit a parked car and the owner cannot be found), or if a party refuses to provide their details, you must report the incident to the police (114) immediately. Failure to do so could result in a fine of DKK 5,000 (as of 2026).

When Police Attendance is Not Always Necessary

For minor accidents involving only property damage where all parties are cooperative, insured, and willing to exchange information, police presence may not be required. In such cases, the parties typically handle the claim directly through their insurance companies using a European Accident Report. However, if in doubt, it is always safer to contact the police (114 for non-emergencies) for advice.

Exchanging Information and Documenting the Accident

After securing the scene and ensuring any necessary calls to emergency services or police have been made, the next critical step is to gather information from all involved parties and thoroughly document the accident.

Information to Exchange

You are legally obliged to provide your name and residence (address) to any other person involved in the accident, or to the person whose property has been damaged. It is also standard practice to provide your vehicle's registration number and insurance details.

Collect the following details from all other drivers and vehicle owners involved:

• Full Name and Address
• Contact Information: Phone number and email address.
• Vehicle Details: Make, model, colour, and most importantly, the registration number (nummerplade).
• Insurance Company and Policy Number: If known.
• Driving Licence Information: Though not strictly mandatory to exchange, noting their licence number and issuing country can be helpful.

Documenting the Scene

Comprehensive documentation is vital for any insurance claim.

• Photographs:
  • Take photos of the overall accident scene, showing the positions of all vehicles relative to each other and to road features (e.g., intersections, road signs, landmarks).
  • Capture close-ups of all damage to your vehicle and other vehicles/property involved.
  • Photograph road conditions, skid marks, debris, and any relevant traffic signs or signals.
  • Include photos from multiple angles and distances.
• Witness Information:
  • If there are any independent witnesses, ask for their names, addresses, and contact numbers. Their testimony can be invaluable in establishing facts.
• Notes:
  • Write down the exact date and time of the accident.
  • Note the precise location (street name, nearest intersection, kilometre marker on motorways).
  • Record weather conditions and road surface conditions.
  • Sketch a simple diagram of the accident, showing vehicle positions and direction of travel.

Completing the European Accident Report (Skadesanmeldelse)

The European Accident Report, often referred to as a skadesanmeldelse by insurers in Denmark, is a standardized form used across Europe to document accident details. It is highly recommended to keep one in your vehicle.

How to Complete the Report

The report is typically a two-part carbon copy form (one for each driver) or a digital equivalent provided by an insurer. It has sections for:

• Date, Time, Location: Basic accident details.
• Witness Information: Space to add details of any witnesses.
• Vehicle A and Vehicle B: Separate sections for each involved vehicle, where you enter driver details, vehicle information, insurance company details, and indicate the point of initial impact on a vehicle diagram.
• Circumstances of the Accident: A series of checkboxes allowing you to describe the driving situation (e.g., "was parked," "was reversing," "was turning left"). Check all relevant boxes.
• Diagram: A space to draw a sketch of the accident, showing vehicle positions, direction of travel, and road layout.
• Comments: A section for additional notes.
• Signatures: Both drivers must sign the form. This confirms that the factual information recorded is accurate, not necessarily an agreement on fault.

Reporting to Your Insurance Company

Once the immediate scene is handled and documentation is complete, you must report the accident to your insurance company promptly. Delays in reporting can complicate your claim.

General Procedure for Reporting

1. Contact Your Own Insurer: Even if you believe the other party is at fault, you should generally report the accident to your own insurance company first. They will guide you through the claims process.
2. Submit Documentation: Provide your insurer with:
   • The completed and signed European Accident Report (skadesanmeldelse).
   • All photographs you took at the scene.
   • Details of other parties involved.
   • Any witness statements.
   • Police report reference number, if applicable.
3. Obtain Repair Estimates: For significant damage to your vehicle, your insurer will likely require one or more repair estimates from approved workshops.
4. Understand Your Coverage:
   • Ansvarsforsikring (Motor Liability Insurance): This is compulsory in Denmark for all registered motor vehicles. It covers damage and personal injury you cause to others, their property, or their vehicle. It does not cover damage to your own vehicle.
   • Kaskoforsikring (Comprehensive Insurance): This is optional and covers damage to your own vehicle, including damage from collisions, theft, vandalism, fire, and certain natural events. If you have this, you will typically claim for damage to your own vehicle through your kasko policy.

What if the Other Driver is Uninsured or Unidentified?

If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured motor vehicle, or if the other driver flees the scene and cannot be identified, you can typically submit a claim to the Dansk Forening for International Motorkøretøjsforsikring (DFIM) (Danish Motor Insurers' Bureau). DFIM acts as a guarantee fund for such situations and also serves as an Information Centre in Denmark, exchanging insurance details with other EU member states.

The Role of Claims History

Insurance companies in Denmark exchange claims history via a platform called EDI, though this requires the consent of the person concerned. Claims history can influence future insurance premiums. If you have moved to Denmark from another country, it's worth inquiring with your Danish insurer about how they handle claims history from abroad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Navigating an accident can be tricky. Being aware of common pitfalls can save you stress, time, and money.

1. Leaving the Scene Without Fulfilling Duties (Flugtbilist): This is a serious offence, especially if there are injuries or if you couldn't exchange details with an absent party (e.g., a parked car). Always report to the police if you cannot establish contact.
2. Not Calling Police for Injuries: Even seemingly minor injuries must be reported to 112, as medical complications can arise later, and police reports are critical for injury claims.
3. Admitting Fault Prematurely: Never admit fault at the scene. Stick to factual descriptions. Determining liability is the job of the insurance companies and, if necessary, the courts.
4. Forgetting Safety Equipment: Failing to use a reflective vest (refleksvest) and warning triangle (advarselstrekant) puts you and others at risk and may constitute a breach of safety regulations.
5. Not Documenting Thoroughly: Insufficient photos, lack of witness details, or an incomplete European Accident Report can weaken your claim.
6. Delaying Insurance Notification: Report the accident to your insurer as soon as reasonably possible. Most policies have specific notification periods.
7. Not Checking Other Driver's Insurance Status: If unsure, use the DMR (Danish Motor Register) to check the other vehicle's liability insurance status, especially for private vehicles.
8. Moving Vehicles Unnecessarily: Unless absolutely necessary for safety or to clear traffic, avoid moving vehicles before documenting their positions. If you must move them, take photos first.
9. Engaging in Heated Disputes: Stay calm. Exchange only the necessary information. Aggressive behaviour can escalate the situation and impede a smooth resolution.
10. Not Knowing Your Rights: Be aware of your rights and obligations under the færdselsloven and your insurance policy. If in doubt, contact your insurer or the police.

What Happens Next and Potential Outcomes

After you have reported the accident to your insurance company, they will take over the handling of your claim.

• Claim Assessment: Your insurer will assess the details of the accident, including the skadesanmeldelse, photos, and any police reports. They will contact the other party's insurer (if applicable) to determine liability.
• Repair or Replacement: If your vehicle is covered by kaskoforsikring and the damage is covered, your insurer will authorise repairs or declare the vehicle a total loss and offer compensation.
• Personal Injury Claims: If you or your passengers sustained injuries, your insurer (or the at-fault party's insurer) will process medical expenses and potential compensation for pain, suffering, or loss of income.
• Disputes: If there's a disagreement about liability between insurers, or if you are unhappy with the outcome of your claim, you can submit a complaint to The Insurance Complaints Board (Ankenævnet for Forsikring).
• Premium Impact: Be aware that claiming on your insurance, especially for at-fault accidents, may affect your future insurance premiums.

Table: When to Call Police vs. Manage Privately

Scenario	Police (112 Emergency)	Police (114 Non-Emergency)	Exchange Details & Report to Insurer	Notes
Anyone is Injured	YES	NO	YES	Legal obligation to assist and report personal injury.
Serious Damage to Public Property	NO	YES	N/A (report to authorities/insurer)	Obligation to report damage to infrastructure.
Serious Dispute over Fault	NO	YES	YES	Police can help establish facts if parties disagree significantly.
Uninsured Driver	YES	NO	YES (then to DFIM)	Critical to report. You will claim via DFIM.
Driver Fled the Scene	YES	NO	YES (then to DFIM)	Criminal offence (flugtbilist). Report immediately.
Hit Parked Car, Owner Absent	NO	YES	NO (report to police for owner ID)	Failure to report is an offence. Police will identify owner.
Minor Damage, No Injuries, Parties Cooperative & Insured	NO	NO (unless in doubt)	YES	Most common scenario for private settlement via European Accident Report.
Suspected Intoxication	YES	NO	YES	Safety risk and criminal offence.

Preparing for the Unexpected: Your Accident Checklist

Having a few essential items in your car can make a significant difference if you're involved in an accident.

• Proof of Insurance: Digital or physical copy of your ansvarsforsikring details.
• Reflective Vest (Refleksvest): Keep it easily accessible, not in the boot.
• Warning Triangle (Advarselstrekant): Ensure it's approved and easily reachable.
• European Accident Report Forms: Keep 1-2 blank forms in your glove compartment. Many insurers provide these.
• Pen: For filling out forms.
• Mobile Phone: Fully charged, with emergency numbers programmed (112, 114, your insurer's direct claim number).
• Camera/Smartphone: For taking photos and videos.
• First-Aid Kit: For minor injuries (though you should call 112 for anything significant).

Official Sources and Further Information

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding traffic laws and accident procedures in Denmark, always refer to official government and insurance authority websites.

• Politi (Danish Police): For information on reporting accidents and traffic laws.
  • politi.dk
• Borger.dk: Denmark's official public information portal, often linking to relevant legal and administrative guidance.
  • borger.dk
• Retsinformation.dk: The official legal information database, where you can find the full text of the færdselsloven (Danish Road Traffic Act).
  • Danish Road Traffic Act (in Danish)
• Danish Motor Register (DMR): To check the insurance status of a vehicle.
  • Danish Motor Register (DMR)
• Dansk Forening for International Motorkøretøjsforsikring (DFIM): For claims involving uninsured or unidentified vehicles.
  • Danish Motor Insurers' Bureau (DFIM)
• The Insurance Complaints Board (Ankenævnet for Forsikring): For disputes with insurance companies.
  • The Insurance Complaints Board