How to save on your car insurance in Spain without sacrificing coverage
For many expats, having a car accident in Spain can feel overwhelming. Different rules, unfamiliar language, and uncertainty about insurance coverage make things more stressful than they need to be. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what steps to take — clearly, quickly, and in plain English. If you’re in a car accident in Spain:
- Stay calm and check for injuries. Call 112 if someone is hurt.
- Move to a safe place if you can.
- Fill out the Declaración Amistosa de Accidente (European Accident Statement) with the other driver.
- Take photos of everything: damage, license plates, road signs.
- Inform your insurance company within 7 days.
Now, let’s dive into the details — and show you how the right car insurance for expats in Spain can save you from major headaches.
Step-by-step: what to do after a car accident in Spain
1. Check safety first
- Turn on your hazard lights.
- If anyone is injured, call 112 immediately (the general emergency number in Spain).
- If safe, move the vehicles to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic.
2. Use the European Accident Statement (Declaración Amistosa)
This is a standard accident form used across Europe. In Spain, it’s often included in your insurance documents.
- Fill it out with the other driver.
- Include:
- Names and contact info
- Insurance details of both parties
- Sketch of how the accident happened
- Signature from both drivers
- Names and contact info
Even if you disagree on who is at fault, fill out the form anyway — it’s vital for your insurer.
3. Collect evidence
Take photos of:
- Vehicle positions and damage
- License plates
- Street signs or traffic lights
- Any visible injuries
Also try to get:
- Names and phone numbers of witnesses
- Police report number (if applicable)
4. Inform your insurer
Contact your insurer within 7 calendar days. Many providers offer assistance in English if they cater to expats. At The Insurance Centre, for example, we provide full claims support in your language — no confusion, no stress.
How car insurance for expats in Spain makes a difference
The type of insurance you have directly affects what happens next. Expats often bring assumptions from their home country, but Spanish car insurance works differently.
Third-party vs fully comprehensive
- Third-party (obligatorio): Legally required. Covers damage you cause to others.
- Comprehensive (todo riesgo): Covers your own damage, theft, fire, and more — even if you were at fault.
Many expats choose comprehensive car insurance for expats in Spain because it simplifies the process and avoids surprises. It’s especially helpful when navigating claims in a foreign language.
Extra services worth having
Some policies (like those we offer at The Insurance Centre) can include:
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Replacement vehicle
- Legal defense
- English-speaking claims support
These extras can make a huge difference when you’re in a stressful situation far from home.
Common questions from expats after an accident
Do I need to call the police?
Only if:
- Someone is injured
- There’s a dispute about what happened
- One driver refuses to share details or is uninsured
Otherwise, the accident report form is enough.
What if I don’t speak Spanish?
Carry a bilingual version of the accident form — many insurers (including us) provide this. And if you’re insured through a company that specializes in expats, they should offer support in your language.
Will I be blamed just because I’m a foreigner?
No. Spanish insurers follow evidence and documentation. That’s why filling out the accident form carefully and taking photos is so important.
Key takeaways
- Be prepared: Keep a copy of the accident form, pen, and your insurance details in the car.
- Stay calm and document everything.
- Report the accident within 7 days to avoid losing coverage.
- Choose an insurer that understands expat needs — it matters when things go wrong.
Ready to feel safer on Spanish roads?
At The Insurance Centre, we’ve helped thousands of expats find the right car insurance for expats in Spain — clear coverage, real support, and peace of mind when you need it most.
Want help reviewing your current policy or getting a quote that actually makes sense for expat life? Contact us today or check out our quick-start guide to car insurance in Spain for expats.
Your journey in Spain should be about exploring — not worrying. Let us take care of the insurance part.
About Our Team
At The Insurance Centre, we’ve been helping clients since 1999 with friendly, professional, and multilingual insurance services tailored especially for expatriates in Spain. We work with top-tier, reputable insurance providers and have proudly received awards for excellence in customer service and expat insurance for the past 10 years.
We are fully registered with the Dirección General de Seguros (DGS) and are members of the Colegio de Mediadores. Our team speaks English, Spanish, French, and Swedish, ensuring clear and confident communication with clients from around the world.
