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Traffic Accident — What to Do

Car crash, motorcycle collision, hit and run

Involved in a road accident in Malta? What you do in the first few minutes is critical for insurance, police and any legal claim. Here is exactly what to d

1. Stop, activate hazards, check for injuries

   You must stop immediately after any accident — leaving the scene is a criminal offence. Activate your hazard lights. Check yourself and all passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 112 (emergency) immediately. Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger of fire.

2. Call police if anyone is injured or if it is a serious accident

   For any accident involving injuries, call 199 (police) immediately — you are legally required to do so. For non-injury accidents at specific locations, call LESA on 21320202. The police will attend and prepare an official accident report which is essential for any insurance or legal claim.

3. Front-to-rear accident with no injuries — complete the Statement of Facts

   If it is a straightforward rear-end collision with no injuries, both drivers must complete the Front-to-Rear Statement of Facts form (also called the bumper-to-bumper form or European Accident Statement). Both drivers sign it and each keeps a copy. Submit to your insurer within 24 hours. You are not required to call police unless government property was damaged.

4. Exchange details and photograph everything

   Exchange: full name, ID card number, vehicle registration, insurance company name and policy number. Photograph: all vehicles from multiple angles, damage on each vehicle, final positions of vehicles, road layout, traffic signs, any skid marks. Take photos before moving vehicles if possible.

5. Get witness details

   If anyone witnessed the accident, get their name and phone number immediately — witnesses often leave quickly. Witness accounts can be decisive in disputed insurance claims. CCTV footage from nearby businesses or private homes can also be requested through police.

6. Notify your insurance company

   Contact your insurer as soon as possible — ideally within 24 hours. Report the accident even if you do not intend to make a claim, as your policy may require it. Provide them with the accident details, the other driver's information and the police report number if one was issued.

7. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine

   Some injuries, especially whiplash and soft tissue damage, do not appear immediately. See a doctor within 24-48 hours and get a medical certificate noting any symptoms. This certificate is essential for any personal injury claim later. Keep all receipts for medical expenses.