Exploring the island in your own vehicle is one of the best ways to experience Ibiza, and services like car rental in Ibiza or car rental at Ibiza airport make this freedom even easier. However, while not common, unexpected incidents can occur. Knowing what to do in case of a rental car accident in Ibiza is essential to ensure your safety and properly manage the situation.
Stay calm and ensure everyone’s safety
The first and most important step after a rental car accident in Ibiza is to stay calm. Check if everyone involved, including passengers and others, is safe. If there are any injuries, you must call the emergency services immediately by dialing 112, the single emergency number for Spain.
After ensuring everyone’s safety, and if it is possible without danger, move the vehicle to a safe area to avoid further accidents. If the car cannot be moved, place the emergency triangles correctly and, if necessary, turn on the hazard lights, especially at night or in poor visibility conditions.
Remaining calm and acting responsibly at this stage will not only protect everyone involved but also make the following insurance and assistance processes much smoother.
Immediately contact the rental company
Once the situation is under control, you must contact the rental company. Whether you booked through car rental in Ibiza or opted for car rental at Ibiza airport, companies like Autos Mari offer 24-hour emergency assistance.
It is essential to inform them about the incident as soon as possible to receive proper car assistance in Ibiza. The company’s staff will guide you through the next steps, such as recovering the damaged vehicle, providing a replacement car if necessary, or directing you to an authorized workshop.
During this call, you will be asked for basic details about the accident: location, time, a brief description of the incident, and, if possible, photos of the damage. Thorough documentation will make the insurance process much easier.
Complete the accident report form
In the event of a minor accident with no injuries but involving another vehicle, it is important to complete the accident report form (European Accident Statement). This standardized document allows both drivers to clearly describe what happened and serves as an official basis for insurance claims.
The form should be filled out together with the other driver, ensuring that all personal, vehicle, and insurance information is accurate. A copy of the report must be delivered to the rental company as soon as possible.
Remember not to sign anything you do not fully understand and, if there are any witnesses, collect their information too. A correctly completed form will greatly speed up any subsequent claim processes related to your accident insurance in Ibiza.
Understand the insurance coverage you have
Before starting your trip, it is highly recommended to review the accident insurance in Ibiza included in your rental contract. Generally, rental cars come with basic insurance that covers third-party damage, but not necessarily damages to your own vehicle.
When booking with companies like Autos Mari, you can choose additional full coverage options that reduce or eliminate the excess in case of an accident. Making this decision before starting your trip can prevent unpleasant surprises later.
Be aware that some policies might exclude damages to specific parts like tires or the underside of the vehicle, so it’s crucial to carefully read the terms before signing the rental agreement.
What you should not do after a rental car accident
Although it’s normal to feel nervous, avoiding common mistakes is crucial to ensure a smooth resolution:
- Do not leave the scene until authorized by authorities or until everything is properly documented.
- Do not admit fault at the scene. The insurance companies and rental company will assess responsibility based on the facts.
- Do not delay reporting the accident. Immediate communication is necessary to avoid losing your insurance coverage.
Acting appropriately protects your rights and makes any claims process much more straightforward.