A car accident can happen in the blink of an eye. But what happens next? For many victims, claims settlement is an opaque process full of deadlines, forms, and negotiations with insurance companies. This practical guide shows you what you should do step by step after an accident in Hamburg to fully assert your claims.
Step 1: Safety at the accident scene – the most important thing first
Before you think about expert opinions or insurance, safety comes first. Turn on your hazard lights, secure the accident scene with the warning triangle, and attend to any injured persons. Only leave the vehicle if it is safe and, if possible, pull it over to the side of the road.
In Hamburg, immediately call the emergency number 112 if there are any injured persons. The police must be notified in case of personal injury, unclear liability, or significant property damage (emergency number 110). Wait for the officers – the police report will be an important document later.
Step 2: Secure Evidence – Leave Nothing to Chance
At the accident scene, you should secure as much evidence as possible. Photograph all vehicles from different angles, close-ups of the damage, the entire accident scene, road markings, traffic signs, and, if present, skid marks. Note the date, time, and exact location of the accident.
Important: Exchange contact information and insurance details with the other party involved in the accident. Also, note down witness information – name, phone number, and address. Witnesses can be crucial in any subsequent dispute.
Step 3: Commission an Accident Report – The Crucial Step
After you have dealt with the immediate situation at the accident scene, commissioning an independent accident report is the most important next step. Do not take the vehicle to a repair shop yet! The vehicle’s condition immediately after the accident must be documented by an expert.
Especially in Hamburg, it is important to commission a local expert who is readily available and familiar with the regional conditions. An expert who knows the Hamburg repair shop scene and legal practice can give you a decisive advantage.
Step 4: Inform the insurance company – but with care
You must report your accident to your insurance company. As the victim, you report the damage to the at-fault driver’s liability insurance – not your own. Pay attention to the following points:
Don’t disclose unnecessary information: Stick to the essentials – what happened, when, and where. Avoid speculative statements about fault or the extent of the damage.
Reject premature settlement offers: Insurance companies often make quick offers to settle the case cheaply. Wait for the expert’s report.
Do not authorize repairs without an expert’s report: Only when all damages are documented can a well-founded decision be made regarding repair or total loss.
Step 5: Claim all damages
Many accident victims are unaware that they have numerous other claims in addition to the repair costs. In Hamburg, those who have suffered damages can typically claim the following:
Compensation for loss of use: You are entitled to compensation for every day you cannot use your vehicle – even if you don’t rent a car.
Rental car costs: If you need a vehicle, you can rent one at the expense of the other party’s insurance company.
Diminution in value: Even after a perfect repair, your vehicle is worth less due to the accident damage. You can be compensated for this diminished value.
Pain and suffering compensation: In cases of personal injury, you are generally entitled to compensation for pain and suffering.
Professional Support in Hamburg
Processing a claim after an accident is complex and time-consuming. To avoid getting lost in the bureaucratic maze, we recommend working with a specialized service provider. The Schadenzentrum Hamburg handles all aspects of the claims process for you – from commissioning an expert report and communicating with the insurance company to organizing repairs and a replacement vehicle.
You don’t have to worry about a thing – the team takes care of the entire process so you can get back on the road quickly.
Conclusion: Be well prepared for claims settlement.
Those who proceed systematically after an accident in Hamburg can assert their claims much more effectively than those who react haphazardly. Secure evidence, commission an expert report promptly, and don’t be pressured by quick insurance offers. With the right partner by your side, claims processing will be smooth and to your advantage.
