What to Do After a Traffic Accident Abroad

Professional drivers know that the road can surprise you anywhere. If you’re relocating from Dubai to Romania—or planning to base your European career out of Romania—you’ll be driving across different legal systems, languages, and insurance frameworks. A traffic accident abroad may be rare, but it’s critical to be ready. This comprehensive guide gives you a step-by-step, Romania-focused playbook for handling emergencies, protecting your rights, and getting back to work quickly and safely.

Whether you’ll operate primarily in Romania or across the EU, the procedures below will help you navigate the practical, legal, and insurance steps—from the moment of impact to filing claims and repairing your vehicle. You’ll also get insights into Romania’s logistics industry, cultural considerations, and the Dubai-to-Romania transition.

Introduction: Why Emergency Preparedness Matters for Dubai-to-Romania Drivers

Relocating from Dubai to Romania offers clear advantages for professional drivers: access to EU routes, competitive per diems, growing logistics demand, and a more diverse driving environment—from the Black Sea port of Constanța to Western European hubs via Hungary. Yet with these opportunities come new rules: different police protocols, road conditions (especially winter), cross-border insurance processes, and employer expectations.

If you’ve built your career in the UAE’s well-maintained road network and clear highway signage, Romania’s varied terrain and seasons require adjusted habits. Combine that with potential language barriers on EU routes, and you can see why having a precise, written accident procedure is essential. The goal is simple: safeguard lives first, then handle authorities, insurers, cargo owners, and employers efficiently—so you minimize downtime and avoid costly mistakes.

This post gives you:

A step-by-step accident response usable in Romania and across Europe
Romania-specific legal and insurance procedures (RCA, European Accident Statement, BAAR)
Practical checklists for documentation, employer reporting, and vehicle repair
Cultural and logistical tips for the Dubai-to-Romania transition (weather, language, living)
Industry insights on Romanian logistics jobs, routes, and regulations

Understand the Romanian and EU Accident Framework

A solid understanding of the legal and insurance ecosystem helps you act confidently under pressure. Here’s what you need to know about Romania and the broader European context.

Key Emergency Number

112 is the pan-European emergency number, including Romania. You can request police, ambulance, and firefighters. Operators typically accommodate English; ask for a translator if needed.

Romanian Traffic Law Basics

Injury or suspected injury: Call 112 and wait for police and medical services. Do not move vehicles unless they pose an immediate danger.
Property damage only: You may resolve incidents through an amicable procedure called “Constatare amiabilă de accident” (European Accident Statement), if both parties agree and there are no injuries. If not using an amicable report, you must report to the police according to legal requirements. Your insurer can guide you.
Zero tolerance for alcohol: Romanian enforcement is strict. Professional drivers should maintain a 0.00 BAC. Refusal of testing is a serious offense.
Required safety items: Reflective vest, warning triangles, first aid kit, and a fire extinguisher must be carried in the vehicle. Failure to use warning equipment after a breakdown or accident can result in fines.

Insurance in Romania and the EU

RCA (civil liability insurance): Mandatory in Romania for all vehicles. It covers third-party damages/injuries you cause.
CASCO: Optional comprehensive insurance for your own vehicle’s damage.
Green Card system: Your liability coverage can extend to other countries via the Green Card. Always carry it when driving cross-border.
CMR Insurance: For cargo, especially international consignments, your employer or carrier should hold CMR insurance (Convention on the Contract for the International Carriage of Goods by Road). You must promptly notify your dispatcher of cargo damage, spills, or delays.

Claims Support Bodies

BAAR (Biroul Asiguratorilor de Autovehicule din România): Romania’s Motor Insurers’ Bureau. It helps identify foreign insurers, manages claims with uninsured or unknown foreign vehicles, and supports the Green Card process if you’re hit by a foreign-registered vehicle in Romania.

Documents You Should Always Carry

Driver’s license with appropriate categories (C/CE/D) and CPC/Code 95 certification
Vehicle registration and insurance (RCA), plus the Green Card when applicable
European Accident Statement (bilingual form)
Tachograph driver card and company card (if applicable)
ADR certificate and instructions in writing (if carrying dangerous goods)
Employer contact and insurance claim hotline numbers

Step-by-Step: What to Do at the Scene (Romania and EU)

This practical sequence works in Romania and throughout Europe. Adapt only as needed for local instructions by police or emergency services.

1) Make the Scene Safe

Stop safely, activate hazard lights, and set warning triangles at recommended distances (on highways, place further back to give more reaction time; follow local regulations).
Wear your reflective vest before stepping onto the road.
If fuel or chemical spill is suspected (ADR cargo), do not allow ignition sources and follow ADR instructions. Notify 112 immediately and refer to your instructions in writing.

2) Check for Injuries and Call 112

If anyone is injured or complains of pain, call 112 right away. Provide your exact location (motorway number, kilometer marker, direction), vehicle details, visible hazards, and number of people involved.
If there are injuries, do not move vehicles unless they create a hazard. Apply basic first aid only if trained and safe to do so. Avoid moving victims unless absolutely necessary.

3) Communicate Clearly

Use English if Romanian isn’t available. State: “Professional driver. Accident. Need police and ambulance.”
If language barriers exist, request a translator through 112 or your insurer/employer’s assistance line.

4) Preserve Evidence

Take wide-angle photos of the scene, damage to all vehicles, license plates, skid marks, debris, signage, road conditions, and any visible injuries (with consent where appropriate).
Record dashcam footage and back it up. Note time, GPS coordinates (if available), and weather.
Photograph documents exchanged (licenses, insurance cards/Green Card). Ensure legibility.

5) Exchange Details or Fill the European Accident Statement

For non-injury cases where police attendance isn’t required, use the European Accident Statement (Constatare amiabilă) to document the incident.
Include: date/time, location, vehicle details, insurance details, driver names, damage diagrams, and signatures. Fill it carefully; it may be used by insurers to determine liability.
If the other driver refuses to cooperate, call 112 and your insurer. Don’t sign documents you don’t understand.

6) Notify Your Employer/Dispatcher

Send a brief incident report, photos, and location to your dispatcher. Your employer may activate a roadside assistance protocol, contact the insurer, or arrange cargo transfer.
If carrying temperature-controlled or high-value goods, inform your dispatcher to coordinate with the client immediately.

7) Follow Police Instructions

For accidents with injuries, possible criminal offenses (e.g., suspected DUI), or major damage, the traffic police (Poliția Rutieră) will come to the scene and issue official records.
Cooperate respectfully, provide requested documents, and ask for a translator if needed. Keep copies of all documents issued (reports, reference numbers).

8) Seek Medical Check if Needed

Even if you feel fine, consider a medical check—especially after significant impacts. This protects health and supports potential injury claims.

9) Move to a Safe Area and Arrange Recovery

If your vehicle is drivable, move to a safe location after documenting the scene. If not, arrange towing through your employer’s network or insurer’s assistance.

10) Report to Your Insurer Promptly

Call the claims line on your RCA/CASCO policy. Some policies require notification within a specific timeframe (e.g., 24–48 hours). Keep your policy number handy.
For cross-border cases, your Romanian insurer or their appointed claims representative abroad will guide you.

Legal and Insurance Procedures in Romania After an Accident

Romania’s system is designed to resolve property damage efficiently while taking a stricter approach to injury cases. Here’s how to navigate it once the scene is safe.

When Police Involvement Is Mandatory

Any accident with injuries or fatalities
Suspected criminal offenses (e.g., alcohol/drugs)
Disputes about fault where parties cannot agree
Damage involving public property or uninsured drivers

The police will issue official documentation (e.g., a report/proces-verbal). In injury cases, you’ll typically receive documents necessary for vehicle repair authorization. Follow their instructions.

Using the Constatare Amiabilă (European Accident Statement)

For minor property damage with both parties agreeing to an amicable settlement, fill the form carefully on the spot.
Keep one copy; take photos/scans. Submit the form to your insurer as instructed. This can avoid police queues and speed up the claim.
Ensure all details are accurate. Sketch the accident diagram and mark vehicle positions.

Filing Claims With Romanian Insurers

RCA claim (you are not at fault): File against the at-fault driver’s RCA. If the at-fault driver is foreign, identify their insurer and claims representative in Romania. BAAR can help with identification.
CASCO claim: If you have comprehensive coverage, open a claim with your own insurer. They may recover costs from the liable party later.
Documentation to keep:
- Photos, videos, dashcam clips
- European Accident Statement or police report
- Copies of licenses, registration, Green Card
- Medical reports (if any)
- Towing/repair invoices, receipts

Timeframes and Next Steps

Notify insurers as soon as possible. Each policy defines deadlines for notification and document submission.
Attend vehicle inspection (“constatare daune”) at the insurer’s designated claims center or allow a mobile assessor to inspect the vehicle.
Obtain repair authorization where required, then proceed to an authorized service center.

Cross-Border Scenarios

If the accident occurs outside Romania:
- Call 112 in that country, and follow local instructions.
- Use the European Accident Statement.
- Contact your Romanian insurer (RCA/CASCO). They will direct you to a local claims representative.
- If the at-fault vehicle is foreign, the Green Card system and national bureaus will coordinate liability claims.

Cargo Damage or Delay (CMR)

Notify your dispatcher immediately in writing.
Photograph cargo condition; protect and segregate damaged goods if safe.
Follow the CMR consignment note procedure for remarks and reservations.
Do not discard damaged packaging without authorization; it may be needed for a surveyor.

Working With Employers, Authorities, and Insurers: Roles and Expectations

Professional drivers relocating to Romania will typically work for carriers that provide structured accident response protocols. Know who does what.

Your Responsibilities

Immediate safety measures and 112 call if needed
Evidence collection, document exchange, and initial reporting to dispatcher
Compliance with police instructions and alcohol/drug testing
Accurate and timely insurer notification
Tachograph annotations: Add manual entry/remark to explain delays or disruptions as permitted by regulations

Employer/Carrier Responsibilities

24/7 dispatcher support and language assistance
Arranging towing, replacement vehicles, or cargo transshipment
Insurer communication and legal support where applicable
Internal incident report and safety review

Insurer and Claims Representatives

Clarify coverage (RCA, CASCO, cargo/CMR)
Coordinate vehicle inspection, repair authorization, and settlement
In cross-border claims, connect you with local representatives

Authorities and Compliance Bodies in Romania

Poliția Rutieră: Traffic police handling on-scene investigations and reports
ARR (Autoritatea Rutieră Română): Issues CPC/Code 95 and tachograph cards
ISCTR (Inspectoratul de Stat pentru Controlul în Transportul Rutier): Conducts roadside checks on compliance (e.g., weights, ADR, tachograph)

Health, Wellbeing, and Administrative Aftercare

After the immediate crisis, protect your health and complete your paperwork to avoid future complications.

Health

Get a medical check if you experienced whiplash, head contact, or shock. Keep medical records and receipts.
Speak with your employer about temporary work adjustments and time off if needed.

Administrative Follow-Up

File complete claim documents promptly. Keep digital and physical copies.
Record your out-of-pocket expenses linked to the accident. Some may be recoverable.
Update your personal accident insurance (if any) and notify beneficiaries if required by policy.

Legal Support

For complex or cross-border liability disputes, ask your employer or insurer about legal counsel. Some policies include legal assistance.

Preparing Your Accident Readiness Kit Before You Relocate

Set yourself up for success during your Dubai-to-Romania transition by building an accident-ready setup.

Vehicle Kit

Reflective vest (accessible from driver’s seat)
Two warning triangles
First aid kit and fire extinguisher (valid date)
High-visibility gloves and basic tools
Phone charger/power bank and backup flashlight
Windshield marker/chalk for diagramming positions if needed

Documents and Digital Backup

Color scans of license, CPC/Code 95, passport, residence permit (once issued), RCA/CASCO policies, Green Card, vehicle registration
European Accident Statement forms (English/Romanian)
Emergency contacts: employer dispatch, insurer, BAAR, roadside assistance
Dashcam with spare SD card; cloud backup if available

Winter Prep (Romania)

Snow chains (for heavy vehicles when conditions require)
Anti-gel diesel additive; windshield washer for freezing temps
Ice scraper, de-icer spray, and warm clothing
Extra water and non-perishable snacks for delays

Best Practices and Tips (Romania-Focused)

Always carry the European Accident Statement in your cab. Many Romanian insurers provide bilingual versions.
Use 112 and request English assistance; calmly state location markers (e.g., “A1, km 452, direction Nădlac”).
In property-damage-only incidents, amicable settlement can save hours. Photograph everything and fill the form clearly.
If you don’t understand a document, don’t sign it. Call your dispatcher or insurer for guidance.
Keep your RCA and Green Card current and easily accessible. Cross-border liability hinges on these.
If the other driver is uninsured or flees, call 112 immediately and notify your insurer. BAAR mechanisms may apply for compensation.
Use your tachograph correctly. Make a manual entry noting the reason for delays due to accidents.
ADR drivers: Review your “instructions in writing” every quarter. Practice spill/containment steps and muster point protocols.
Dashcams are generally permissible in Romania. Use footage responsibly and respect privacy when sharing publicly.
Build basic Romanian phrases for emergencies:
- “Am avut un accident. Aveți nevoie de documentele mele?” (I had an accident. Do you need my documents?)
- “Unde este cea mai apropiată secție de poliție?” (Where is the nearest police station?)
- “Aveți asigurare RCA?” (Do you have RCA insurance?)

Common Challenges and Solutions When You Relocate to Romania

1) Language Barriers

Challenge: Communicating details under stress.
Solution: Use 112, request English or a translator; carry bilingual forms; rely on employer dispatch to confer with authorities.

2) Weather and Road Conditions

Challenge: Winter snow/ice, fog in mountain passes (DN1, DN7), black ice.
Solution: Seasonal training, winter tires/chains as applicable, increased following distance, regular weather checks, and avoiding risky overtakes in valleys.

3) Different Enforcement Style

Challenge: Local enforcement may request on-the-spot document checks; roadside inspections by ISCTR.
Solution: Keep documents organized and readily available; maintain respectful, calm communication; know your rest-period rights and obligations.

4) Border Crossings and Delays

Challenge: Although Romania joined Schengen for air/sea, road borders still conduct checks, causing queues (e.g., Nădlac II into Hungary, Giurgiu into Bulgaria).
Solution: Build buffer time; carry all cargo, customs, and vehicle papers; coordinate with dispatch for best crossing times and live queue data.

5) Insurance Complexity in Cross-Border Accidents

Challenge: Identifying foreign insurers and claims reps.
Solution: Contact your Romanian insurer and BAAR; use the Green Card; document thoroughly and use the European Accident Statement to prevent disputes.

6) Cost-of-Living Adjustments

Challenge: Budgeting after relocation.
Solution: Research housing near logistics hubs (Arad, Timișoara, Cluj, Pitești, Bucharest); expect lower costs than Western EU but higher than some areas in Eastern Europe. Plan for 3–6 months of savings.

Industry Insights: Romania’s Trucking and Logistics Landscape

Romania is a strategic logistics gateway to Central and Western Europe, with strong domestic and cross-border demand. Understanding the market helps you choose employers and routes wisely.

Key Corridors and Routes

A1 Motorway: Bucharest–Pitești–Sibiu–Deva–Nădlac II (Hungary). Main Western exit to the EU heartland.
A2 Motorway: Bucharest–Constanța. Critical for port logistics and container flows from the Black Sea.
A3 Motorway: Transylvania corridor with ongoing expansion; connects major industrial zones.
DN1 (E60) and DN7 (E81): Mountain valleys with heavy traffic, especially weekends and holidays.
Border Crossings: Nădlac II (HU), Borș II (HU), Giurgiu–Ruse (BG), Calafat–Vidin (BG). Expect periodic queues and plan rest times accordingly.

Logistics Hubs

Bucharest-Ilfov: National distribution center; A0 ring road expansion improves freight flow.
Arad–Timișoara: Proximity to Hungary and Western EU; strong manufacturing and cross-dock activity.
Cluj–Turda: Growing tech and industrial base; intermodal connections.
Ploiești–Pitești: Automotive supply chains and proximity to A1/A3.
Constanța: Major seaport connecting Asia/Black Sea with European inland markets.

Employers and Sectors

International carriers with Romanian operations: DB Schenker, DHL Freight, Kuehne+Nagel, FM Logistic, and other global 3PLs.
Romanian logistics groups: Aquila, International Alexander, Dumagas, and regional fleets specializing in EU international routes.
Sectors: Automotive, FMCG, e-commerce, industrial, agricultural exports, and energy-related logistics.

Work Conditions and Pay Structures

Many Romanian carriers offer international lanes with per diems and rotation systems (e.g., weeks on the road followed by home rest).
Training and upskilling: CPC/Code 95 periodic training is mandatory; ADR certification can boost earnings and job options.
Equipment: Fleets increasingly modernize (Euro 6 tractors, telematics, driver-assistance systems), though vehicle age varies by company.

Compliance and Safety Culture

Strong focus on EU drivers’ hours, tachographs, and rest rules. Romanian companies operating internationally are accustomed to audits and roadside checks in multiple EU states.
Safety performance is a major hiring criterion; accident prevention and proper claims handling protect both driver and employer reputation.

Practical Action Steps for the Dubai-to-Romania Relocation

Use this checklist to make your transition smoother and ensure you’re prepared for emergencies and day-to-day operations.

1) Pre-Relocation Research

Understand licensing: If you hold a UAE license, check recognition and conversion options. Non-EU drivers typically need Romanian testing for C/CE and CPC/Code 95 certification.
Training: Plan CPC initial or periodic courses through ARR-authorized centers; consider ADR certification.
Employment: Shortlist reputable carriers with international operations and clear accident protocols; ask about insurance coverage, assistance partnerships, and training.

2) Visas and Permits (for Non-EU Citizens)

Secure a job offer. The employer obtains a work authorization (aviz de muncă).
Apply for the long-stay work visa (D/AM) at the Romanian consulate.
Upon arrival, obtain your residence permit (permis de ședere) and register with authorities.
Obtain your tachograph driver card through ARR.

3) Insurance and Documentation Setup

Ensure your vehicle (or employer’s vehicle) has valid RCA and Green Card for EU trips.
Keep your personal accident insurance where relevant.
Store digital backups of all documents and keep printed copies in the cab.
Prepare multiple European Accident Statement forms.

4) Safety and Equipment

For winter: Chains, anti-gel, warm clothing, and an emergency kit.
Dashcam with proper installation; backup storage.
Regular vehicle inspections and tire checks, especially before mountain routes.

5) Housing and Lifestyle

Choose housing near depots or along main corridors to reduce commute stress.
Budget for utilities, mobile data, and health services; costs vary by city—Bucharest and Cluj are typically pricier than smaller hubs like Pitești or Craiova.
Learn basic Romanian phrases; English is common in logistics, but Romanian helps at roadside checks and service centers.

6) Build Your Emergency Network

Save 112 on speed dial.
Save insurer claims lines, BAAR, your employer’s emergency desk, and preferred towing providers.
Join driver communities and forums focused on Romania/EU routes.

7) Run a Mock Drill

Practice the steps: secure scene, call 112, collect evidence, fill a sample European Accident Statement, notify dispatcher and insurer.
Review with your team lead. A 20-minute drill can prevent costly mistakes later.

Case Examples: How Procedures Play Out

Example 1: Fender-Bender in Bucharest

Situation: Low-speed collision at an intersection; no injuries.
Action: Both drivers fill the European Accident Statement on-site, exchange RCA and license details, take photos, and notify insurers. You book a claims inspection and repair slot. Downtime minimized.

Example 2: Nighttime Highway Accident Near Sibiu (A1)

Situation: Rear-end collision; mild neck pain reported by the other driver.
Action: Call 112, place triangles, wait for police and ambulance. Provide documents, get a medical check. Police report is issued. You inform your dispatcher and insurer. Repairs proceed after authorization.

Example 3: Cross-Border Incident in Hungary

Situation: Sideswipe near a service area; other driver is Hungarian. No injuries.
Action: Use the European Accident Statement; call your Romanian insurer, who provides the Hungarian claims representative details. Submit documents digitally. Repair arranged upon return to Romania.

Example 4: ADR Spill Alert on DN7

Situation: Potential leak from container; strong odor.
Action: Stop safely, warn traffic, reference ADR instructions in writing, call 112, keep ignition sources away, and follow emergency card guidance. Dispatcher coordinates hazardous cleanup through specialized contractors. Authorities manage site safety.

Conclusion: Be Ready, Stay Safe, Protect Your Career

Accidents abroad test your composure and professionalism. As you transition from Dubai to Romania, you’re stepping into a dynamic EU logistics ecosystem with clear rules, strong insurer networks, and robust safety standards. The key is preparation: know 112, carry the European Accident Statement, understand RCA/Green Card coverage, coordinate with your employer, and document everything. This way, you protect health, minimize downtime, and keep your reputation strong with insurers and employers alike.

Bookmark this guide, print the checklists, and run a quick practice drill this week. If you’re comparing Romanian employers, ask them to share their accident protocol and claims turnaround statistics—choose partners who invest in your safety. Your next chapter in Romania can be both rewarding and resilient when you’re ready for any emergency.

FAQ: Working and Living in Romania as a Professional Driver

1) What number do I call for emergencies in Romania?

Dial 112 for police, ambulance, or fire services. It’s the same across the EU. You can ask for assistance in English and request a translator if needed.

2) Do I always need to call the police after a crash in Romania?

Call 112 if there are injuries, suspected DUI, significant damage, or disputes. For minor property damage where both parties agree, you can use the European Accident Statement (Constatare amiabilă) and notify your insurer without police presence. When in doubt, call 112 or your insurer for guidance.

3) How does Romanian insurance work for accidents abroad?

Your mandatory RCA covers liability to third parties. For cross-border travel, carry the Green Card. If you’re not at fault, claims can be handled through the at-fault party’s insurer and their claims representative in Romania or the country of the accident. BAAR can help identify insurers and route claims.

4) Will language be a major barrier during an accident?

Often less than you think. 112 operators and many police officers can manage basic English. Your employer and insurer can provide translators or claims assistance. Carry bilingual accident forms and keep key phrases handy.

5) What should I know about driving conditions in Romania compared with Dubai?

Romania has four seasons, with winter snow and ice in many regions. Mountain routes can be challenging, and traffic congestion occurs near cities and tourist corridors. Prepare with winter equipment, check forecasts, and allow extra time on DN1/DN7 or during holidays.

6) What are the benefits of basing my driving career in Romania?

Access to EU freight corridors, competitive per diems for international routes, diverse cargo opportunities (automotive, FMCG, e-commerce), and growing infrastructure. Romania also offers a cost of living generally lower than Western Europe while connecting you to major EU markets.

7) I’m moving from Dubai. How do I handle licensing and CPC/Code 95?

Non-EU drivers typically need to obtain Romanian driving categories and CPC/Code 95 via authorized training and exams. Your employer can guide you to ARR-approved centers. If you already have international experience, many schools offer accelerated pathways consistent with regulations.

Best Practices Recap (Quick Checklist)

Save 112, insurer, employer, and BAAR contacts.
Keep RCA, Green Card, and European Accident Statement in the cab.
Photograph everything and secure dashcam footage.
Don’t sign unfamiliar documents; call your dispatcher or insurer.
For injuries: don’t move vehicles, call 112, and await police.
Report promptly to insurers and attend vehicle inspection.
For ADR cargo: follow instructions in writing and isolate hazards.
Prepare winter gear and practice an accident drill.

Stay safe, stay prepared, and build your new, rewarding route map across Romania and the EU with confidence.