Accident report: how to fill it in without mistakes in France in 2026

The accident report: a central document

The "constat amiable" (officially "friendly motor accident declaration") is the document that lets both insurers determine liability and indemnify the parties. A mistake or omission can be costly: compensation delays, undue liability share, or even refusal to cover.

3 steps to follow on the spot

1. Secure the area

Turn on hazard lights, place the triangle (30 m minimum), put on high-vis vests, move passengers and witnesses aside. Never move the vehicles before photos unless traffic is dangerously blocked.

2. Photograph the damage and scene

At least 10 photos: overall views of the vehicles, plates, specific damage (body, windows, bumpers), brake marks, visible road signs. Smartphones record location and timestamp — useful in dispute.

3. Fill in the report together

One report is enough for both vehicles. Fill it in calmly, without rushing the other driver to sign.

The 7 classic mistakes

1. Listing non-visible damage without checking

List only visible damage. A rear impact may hide mechanical damage — the insurer will have it expertised. Do not state anything without proof.

2. Leaving boxes empty

An unticked box reads as "not applicable". On a badly filled report, you can lose your advantage (green light, priority).

3. Ticking too many boxes on your behaviour

Tick ONLY the boxes that match what actually happened. Don't tick "was changing lane" if you weren't — even if the other driver claims so.

4. Signing before reading the other version

Read and validate the ticks on the other side. If the other driver filled a false item, do NOT sign and note your observations.

5. Forgetting the sketch

Draw the vehicles' positions before impact, the lanes, direction of travel, traffic lights, key signs. Without a sketch, the insurer can rule against you.

6. Omitting witnesses

If witnesses were present, take their contacts (name, phone). Essential in case of later disagreement.

7. Sending the report late

You have 5 working days to send the report to your insurer (digital or paper). Beyond: financial penalty and, in some cases, non-coverage.

E-constat auto: digital and free

Since 2014, the "e-constat auto" app allows filling the report on a smartphone. Advantages: secure digital signature, instant sending to both insurers, photos attached directly. Used in 2026 by 35% of French drivers. Free download Android/iOS.

What if you disagree on the spot?

If the other driver refuses to fill the report or wants an erroneous version: do not yield, fill your own, write a detailed statement at home and send it to your insurer. Involve police or gendarmerie if total refusal to cooperate.

What about no injuries?

If no one is injured, no need to call emergency services. Property damage only: the report is enough. Bodily injury: call 15 or 112, leave the car in place until help arrives.