Emergency Number 112 – Police, Ambulance, Fire & Road Accident Advice.

What happens when you call 112?

• Calls are free.
• English is widely spoken by operators.
• The call is normally routed through police dispatch.
• The operator sends police, ambulance or fire services as required.
• Be ready to provide:
  • Your location
  • Nature of the emergency
  • Number of injured people
  • Contact telephone number

Traffic Collision → Any injuries?

YES → Call 112 immediately → Do not move vehicles.

NO → Photograph scene → Exchange details → Move vehicles if safe → Contact insurance assistance.

There is a legal requirement to move your vehicle in certain circumstances and exchange specific details. Failure to comply can result in a fine or a prison sentence.

For Serious Accidents (with injuries or significant damage or obstruction):

If there are personal injuries or significant property damage, you should not move the vehicles until the police arrive and have recorded the incident. In such cases:

1. Ensure immediate safety: Turn on hazard lights. If the accident is at night, place a warning triangle at a safe distance.
2. Call the police and ask for an ambulance if needed.
3. Do not admit liability: Avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as an admission of fault.
4. Exchange information: Get full names, contact details, vehicle registration numbers, insurance company names and policy numbers, and driver’s license numbers. Collect witness details if possible.
5. Document the scene: Take photos of everything (vehicles, damage, road conditions, signs, injuries).
6. Inform your insurance provider as soon as possible, and call the phone number stated in your insurance certificate in case of accident.

The key takeaway is that for minor accidents, you are now expected to remove your vehicle from the road after documenting the scene. For serious accidents, you must wait for the authorities.

Emergency location advice for tourists

Always carry with you:

• In a rented car – driving licence – rental documents
• For a locally registered car: – driving licence and insurance.
• A hard copy, web link, or download the European Accident Statement (EAS) form in your language.