Having a traffic accident is stressful enough without making things worse through an initial poor reaction. And this happens far more often than people think. Nervousness, shock, or urgency lead many people to make mistakes that later cost them money, evidence, and leverage when claiming compensation.
The Spanish Traffic Authority (DGT) reminds drivers that, after an accident, the priority is to follow the PAS rule: Protect, Alert, and Assist. In other words: first secure the area and your own safety, then call emergency services, and only then provide help within your actual abilities. From there, here is what you should not do.
1. Don’t just think about leaving the scene quickly
The first priority is not “move the car and go on”. The priority is to secure the area and avoid increasing the risk. The DGT stresses the importance of signalling the accident, exiting the vehicle safely, and staying in a protected area if possible. Leaving without properly securing the scene or notifying authorities can seriously complicate accident reconstruction.
2. Don’t avoid calling 112 if there are injuries or any real doubt
A very common mistake is thinking you should not “bother” emergency services. The DGT recommends providing 112 with the exact location, number and type of vehicles involved, number of injured persons, and any relevant details. If the accident is not as minor as it seems, that call can be crucial.
3. Don’t sign the amicable accident report if you disagree
The DGT notes that the Friendly Accident Report (European Accident Statement) should be completed and sent to the insurer, correctly stating vehicles, damages, and circumstances. However, if you do not agree with how the accident is described, do not sign it just to move things forward. Signing a version you do not accept can seriously weaken your position later.
4. Don’t leave without taking photos or identifying witnesses
This is one of the mistakes that costs the most money. If possible, take photos of:
If there are witnesses, try to collect their contact details. In many cases, what is not documented at the beginning becomes very difficult to prove later.
5. Don’t minimise injuries thinking “they’ll go away”
Many people initially say they are fine, only for pain or limitations to appear hours or days later. If there is any discomfort or symptom, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Minimising injuries early can weaken your position against the insurer later.
6. Don’t move an injured person if you don’t know how
The DGT warns that injured persons should not be moved unless strictly necessary, and that motorcycle helmets should not be removed except in exceptional danger situations. Improper assistance can make injuries worse.
7. Don’t accept the insurer’s first position without reviewing it
Another very common mistake is accepting the first call, assessment, or offer. Current regulations require a prior claim stage and a reasoned offer or response, and formal notification of that offer starts a new one-year limitation period. This means you should not rush into accepting a valuation without carefully checking what may be missing. Both insurers—the other party’s and your own—often aim to close cases quickly and for the lowest possible amount, so it is advisable to get independent legal advice not linked to either insurer.
After an accident, the priority is not only recovery. It is also avoiding mistakes that weaken your ability to claim compensation. If you have had an accident and want to know whether you can claim more or whether the insurer is undervaluing your case, we can review it clearly with you.
