Getting into a car accident is stressful, no matter how small the collision might be. In Spain, like in much of Europe, there is a standard document used to make the process easier: the Parte Amistoso de Accidente (also called the European Accident Statement). This form is designed to record the details of an accident in a way that both drivers agree on, so insurance companies can process claims quickly and fairly.

If you drive in Spain — whether you’re a resident, an expat living on the Costa Blanca North, or just visiting for a holiday — it’s important to know how this form works. Even if you’ve never had to fill one out before, keeping a blank copy in your car is essential, as Spanish law expects drivers to carry it along with their insurance and vehicle documents.

At first glance, the form can look intimidating with its boxes, checklists, and diagrams. But once you understand the layout, it’s actually very straightforward. Each section is designed to capture specific details: who was driving, what cars were involved, what happened, and where the damage occurred. Filling it in properly protects you from misunderstandings, ensures the correct party is held responsible, and helps your insurance claim go smoothly.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step, explaining what to write in each section, what mistakes to avoid, and how to make sure you’re covered. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to fill out the form correctly if you ever need it — and that peace of mind is invaluable on the road.

Print a step by step guide for the glove box

Spanish car damage report in 6 easy steps

1. When to Use the Form

• Minor accidents with no injuries.
• When both drivers agree on what happened.
• For reporting to your insurer (normally within 7 days in Spain).
  ❌ If there are injuries, intoxication, major disputes, or serious damage — call the police (112) instead.

2. The Layout of the Form

The form has three main parts:

1. Header – Accident details (date, location, witnesses).
2. Columns A & B – Information about each driver and vehicle.
3. Central Section – Circumstances of the accident + sketch.

At the bottom, both drivers must sign. Each driver keeps a copy.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

A. Accident Details (Top Section)

Fill in:

• Date & time of accident.
• Exact location (street, km marker, town, GPS if possible).
• Injuries? Tick yes/no.
• Other damage? (street signs, fences, other cars).
• Witnesses? Write their names & contact details.

B. Driver & Vehicle Information (Columns A & B)

Each driver fills in their own column (Driver A = you, Driver B = the other driver).

• Driver details: Name, address, phone number, driver’s licence number.
• Vehicle details: Registration plate, make/model, country of registration.
• Insurance details: Company name, policy number, green card number.
• Owner details: If different from driver.

💡 Tip: Always carry your insurance “green card” and policy info in the car.

C. Accident Circumstances (Central Section)

• Tick boxes: There are 17 numbered situations (e.g. “vehicle parked,” “changing lanes,” “rear-end collision”). Tick ALL that apply to your vehicle.
• Arrows of impact: Mark where the vehicles hit each other.
• Damage points: Indicate where damage occurred (front, side, rear).
• Sketch: Draw a simple diagram of the road, cars, and direction of travel. Include lane markings, signs, and traffic lights if relevant.
• Comments: Use the notes area if something needs clarification.

D. Signature & Agreement

• Both drivers must sign at the bottom.
• By signing, you agree to the description on the form.
  ❌ Do not sign if you disagree with the other driver’s version. Call police instead.

4. After Completing the Form

• Each driver keeps one copy (the sheets are carbon-copied).
• Send your copy to your insurer within the required timeframe (usually 7 days).
• Attach any supporting evidence: photos, witness details, police report (if called).

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Leaving sections blank (insurers may reject the form).
• Forgetting to tick circumstances boxes.
• Drawing an unclear or misleading sketch.
• Signing when you disagree with the version of events.
• Not noting witness details when available.

6. Extra Tips

• Keep two blank forms in your glove box (in Spanish & English).
• Always use BLOCK CAPITALS for clarity.
• Take photos of the scene from multiple angles.
• Exchange copies politely, even if you disagree — but only sign if you’re sure.

FAQs – Filling Out the Spanish Car Damage Form

1. What is the Parte Amistoso de Accidente?
It’s the standard accident report form used in Spain (and across Europe) for minor car accidents. It allows both drivers to record details of the incident in a format that insurers recognize.

2. Do I always have to fill out the form after an accident?
You only need to complete the form if there’s minor damage and no injuries. For serious accidents, injuries, intoxicated drivers, or disputes, you should call the police (112) instead.

3. What documents do I need to fill out the form?
You’ll need your driver’s licence, car registration details, and insurance policy information. It’s best to always carry these in your car along with a blank copy of the form.

4. Can I fill out the form in English?
The form is bilingual in many cases (Spanish + another EU language), but it’s safer to use the Spanish version so your insurer and local authorities can process it without delays.

5. What if I don’t agree with the other driver?
❌ Do not sign the form if you disagree. Instead, note your version of events in the comments section and call the police to file an official report.

6. How long do I have to send the form to my insurer?
In Spain, you usually have 7 days to send the completed form to your insurance company. Always check your policy for exact deadlines.

7. Do both drivers need to sign the form?
Yes. Both signatures are required for the report to be valid. Each driver keeps a copy (the sheets are carbon-copied).

8. What if the other driver refuses to fill out or sign?
If the other driver refuses, take photos of the accident, collect witness details, and report it directly to your insurer. You may also need to call the police if the situation escalates.

Conclusion

The Parte Amistoso is designed to make accident reporting simple and standardised across Europe. By carefully filling in driver details, accident circumstances, and a clear sketch, you protect yourself and ensure your insurance claim is processed smoothly.

For drivers on the Costa Blanca North (Jávea, Dénia, Moraira, Calpe, Altea), being familiar with this form can save stress and avoid costly mistakes. Keep one in your car, and you’ll be ready if the unexpected happens.