What to Do After a Traffic Accident Abroad

Introduction

Relocating from Global to Romania as a professional driver is an exciting career step. You will be entering the European Union market, connecting with major logistics corridors that run from the Black Sea to Central and Western Europe, and tapping into a sector that needs skilled drivers. Yet with opportunity comes responsibility. One of the most important skills you can bring to Romania is the ability to stay calm and act correctly when an emergency happens on the road.

This guide focuses on emergency preparedness, especially what to do after a traffic accident abroad. It is written specifically for professional drivers who are planning to move to Romania or to drive international routes that cross Romania. You will get a step-by-step playbook for handling accidents in foreign countries, plus practical advice on Romanian laws, EU regulations, insurance, employer expectations, and documentation. We will also address the broader relocation picture: how to secure work, convert your license and certifications, comply with EU and Romanian transport laws, understand salary ranges and the cost of living, and integrate into local life.

Use this as your field manual. Save it on your phone. Share it with your dispatcher. The goal is simple: if an incident happens, you will know exactly what to do, who to call, which forms to complete, and how to protect your health, your legal position, and your professional license.

Why Romania?

Romania is a compelling destination for professional drivers for several reasons:

• EU membership and market access: Romania joined the European Union in 2007. As a driver based in Romania, you can connect to EU corridors linking the Balkans, Central Europe, and Western Europe. Many Romanian logistics firms operate international routes, giving you wider exposure and higher earning potential.
• Lower cost of living: Compared to many EU countries, Romania offers a lower cost of living while still paying competitive EU-aligned salaries for international driving roles.
• Strong driver demand: With rapid growth in e-commerce, manufacturing, and construction, Romania needs skilled drivers across categories C, CE, and D, as well as ADR-certified specialists.
• Quality of life: Cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi combine modern amenities with access to nature. You will also find a growing expat community and improving infrastructure.
• Strategic logistics position: Romania is a key gateway to the Black Sea and has overland connections to Bulgaria, Hungary, Serbia, Moldova, and Ukraine. Ports like Constanta are major freight hubs.

For drivers from Global, Romania provides a rare combination: entry into the EU transport market without the cost pressures of Western capitals, plus strong employer demand and opportunities to upgrade skills such as ADR, CPC, and digital tachograph proficiency.

Job Market Overview

Romania's transportation and logistics sector spans long-haul trucking, regional delivery, urban bus services, intercity coach operations, and last-mile e-commerce. Here is a snapshot of specific opportunities and where to look.

International HGV (C/CE)

• Work: Long-haul trucking across the EU, frequent routes to Germany, Italy, France, Austria, Hungary, and the Benelux region.
• Employers: DB Schenker Romania, DSV, Kuehne+Nagel Romania, H.Essers Romania, Yusen Logistics Romania, NTG, and numerous Romanian mid-sized carriers with EU contracts.
• Bases and hubs: Bucharest (A1/A2/A3 access), Timisoara (western corridor), Cluj-Napoca (northwest hub), Oradea and Arad (close to Hungary border), Iasi (northeast).
• Skills valued: Code 95 (CPC), digital tachograph proficiency, ADR basic and tank if applicable, good English for international dispatch, safe winter driving.

Domestic HGV and Regional Distribution

• Work: Distribution to retail warehouses, construction sites, and factories within Romania.
• Employers: Local carriers and 3PLs around Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi; retail chains and FMCG companies often subcontract transport.
• Advantages: More predictable schedules than long-haul, home most nights, good for family life.

Bus and Coach Drivers (D)

• Urban bus services: STB (Bucharest), CTP Cluj-Napoca, STPT Timisoara, CTP Iasi. Regular routes with fixed schedules, growing fleets of modern buses.
• Intercity and international coach: Private operators serving domestic intercity routes and international lines, often partnering with platforms like FlixBus through local contractors.
• Customer service skills are crucial alongside safe driving.

Last-Mile Delivery and Light Commercial Vehicles (B/C1)

• E-commerce boom: Companies like FAN Courier, Sameday, Urgent Cargus, DPD, DHL Express, and GLS need delivery drivers.
• Typical routes are urban and suburban with multiple stops per day.

Specialized Transport (ADR and Heavy Haulage)

• ADR-certified drivers are in demand for fuel, chemicals, and other hazardous goods. Additional pay is common.
• Oversized and heavy haulage roles require advanced skills and often deliver premium rates.

Warehouse-to-Wheel Pathways

• Some logistics firms hire warehouse staff and support progression to driving roles by sponsoring license upgrades and CPC training.

What to Do After a Traffic Accident Abroad: A Step-by-Step Field Manual

Whether you are in Romania or crossing borders into neighboring EU states, your response to an accident should be structured and calm. Use this sequence as your checklist. Adapt to the local situation and your employer's internal policies.

1) Ensure Immediate Safety

• Stop immediately and secure the vehicle. Turn on hazard lights.
• Wear a reflective safety vest before exiting the vehicle.
• Place warning triangles:
  • Urban roads: about 30 meters behind the vehicle.
  • Rural roads: 50 meters or more.
  • Motorways: 100 meters or more, and if safe, one triangle in front if the vehicle obstructs the lane.
• Move to a safe location if the vehicle is drivable and there are no serious injuries and local law permits it. On motorways, prioritize getting out of live traffic lanes.

2) Check for Injuries and Call 112

• Assess yourself, passengers, and others involved. Do not move injured persons unless there is immediate danger (fire, explosion risk, oncoming traffic).
• Call 112 (the EU emergency number) and provide:
  • Exact location (road number, kilometer marker, nearest city or landmark).
  • Number of vehicles and injured persons.
  • Hazards present (fuel leak, fire, hazardous cargo).
• If transporting ADR goods, clearly state the UN number, class, and follow ADR Instructions in Writing. Keep these instructions accessible in the cabin.

3) Prevent Secondary Accidents

• Use cones, triangles, and position a spotter only if it is safe.
• Do not smoke near fuel or hazardous spills.
• For ADR cargo: use spill kits and fire extinguishers only if you are trained and it is safe to do so. Otherwise, isolate the area and wait for emergency services.

4) Notify Your Dispatcher and Follow Company Protocols

• Contact your employer or dispatcher as soon as safely possible. Provide photos and a brief summary.
• If your company has a roadside assistance partner or claims handler, contact them early.
• Keep your phone battery charged and conserve power.

5) Document Everything

• Take clear photos of vehicle positions, skid marks, road signs, damage, license plates, and visible injuries.
• Record the time, weather, lighting, and road conditions.
• Collect details from other drivers and witnesses: full name, address, phone, license number, vehicle registration, insurer, and policy details.
• Note the police officers names, badge numbers, and station if they attend.
• If you use a dashcam, preserve the footage and secure the SD card.

6) Insurance and Accident Report Forms

• In the EU, many insurers use a European Accident Statement, a bilingual form that both parties can fill. Complete it accurately. Only sign if you agree with the facts.
• In Romania, if there are only material damages and no injuries, and both parties agree on the circumstances, you can complete an amicable accident report (constatare amiabila) without calling the police. Exchange insurance data and notify insurers promptly. If there are injuries, disagreements, or more than two vehicles involved, call the police.
• For foreign-registered vehicles entering Romania, carry valid motor third-party liability insurance. Within the EU, your plate and MTPL policy are typically sufficient. For non-EU vehicles, a Green Card may be required. If you cannot present valid insurance at the border, you may need to purchase frontier insurance.

7) Police Involvement and Your Rights

• When the police arrive, cooperate fully and present documents: ID, driving license, vehicle registration (or lease papers), insurance, tachograph card, and, if applicable, ADR documents.
• Romania applies a strict approach to drink-driving, especially for professional drivers. You may be tested for alcohol or drugs. Refusing or failing the test carries serious penalties. Never consume alcohol before or during duty.
• Do not admit fault at the scene. Stick to factual descriptions. Fault will be determined by insurers and, if needed, the courts based on evidence and police reports.

8) Tachograph and Working Time Records

• Mark the accident and any related stoppage correctly on the digital tachograph. If instructed by police to move or wait, ensure the tachograph reflects the reality (other work, rest, or emergency as applicable).
• Printouts may be required. Annotate printouts with your signature, date, time, and a short note: accident, location, police reference.
• Keep your last 28 days of records accessible to authorities.

9) Medical Check and Post-Accident Care

• Even if you feel fine, consider a medical check. Soft-tissue injuries and concussions may appear later. Keep medical records for claims.
• Notify your employer of any medical restrictions or time off required.

10) Claims and Repairs: Cross-Border Procedures

• Notify your insurer within the time limits stated in your policy. In Romania, many insurers expect notification within 24 hours for material damage.
• If the at-fault vehicle is foreign, you may file a claim through their insurer's claims representative in Romania. The EU Motor Insurance Directive framework allows cross-border handling.
• If the at-fault driver is uninsured or unknown (hit-and-run), you may seek compensation through BAAR (the Romanian Motor Insurers Bureau). Keep police reports and witness statements.
• For company vehicles, follow the fleet manager's instructions on where to tow and repair. Keep all invoices and receipts.

11) Language Tips for the Scene

• Emergency number: 112.
• Useful phrases in Romanian (phonetic approximations in parentheses):
  • I need help: Am nevoie de ajutor (ahm ne-vo-yeh de ah-joo-tor)
  • Call 112: Sunati la 112 (soo-nahts ee-noo noo doi)
  • Insurance: Asigurare (ah-see-goo-rah-reh)
  • Driving license: Permis de conducere
  • Vehicle registration: Talon / Certificat de inmatriculare
  • Green Card: Carte Verde
  • Accident report: Constatare amiabila
  • I am a professional driver: Sunt sofer profesionist

Keep an emergency card in your wallet with Romanian and English phrases, your blood type, allergies, and emergency contacts.

12) ADR-Specific Actions

• Follow ADR Instructions in Writing carried in the cab. Identify the UN numbers and hazards.
• Secure the vehicle, isolate the area, and inform 112 about the cargo type.
• Do not allow ignition sources. Use PPE as required. Do not attempt cleanup beyond your training.
• Expect specialized responders to take charge upon arrival.

13) After the Scene: Documentation and Follow-Up

• Prepare a written report for your employer within 24 hours, including photos and diagrams.
• Maintain a timeline of events, communications, and expenses.
• Track medical appointments and keep receipts for medications and treatment.
• If you receive a police fine or are given a summons, notify your company and consult legal counsel if required.

14) Mental Wellbeing

• Accidents are stressful. Ask your employer about counseling support. Speak with your family and peers. If you experience anxiety or sleep issues, seek professional help. Your long-term fitness to drive depends on mental as well as physical health.

Legal Requirements: Visas and Work Permits for Global Citizens

Your path depends on whether you are an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen or not.

For EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens

• You can live and work in Romania without a work permit.
• Within 90 days of arrival, register for a residence certificate with the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI). Bring proof of employment, identity, and accommodation.

For Non-EU Citizens (Global)

Most drivers from Global will follow this sequence:

1. Secure a job offer: A Romanian employer offers you a contract for a driver role (C, CE, or D).
2. Employer obtains a work permit: The employer applies to IGI for a work permit (aviz de munca). They must show they could not fill the role with EU labor and that you meet qualifications.
3. Apply for a long-stay visa for employment: With the work permit, apply for a D/AM long-stay visa at the Romanian consulate in your country. Provide a valid passport, work permit, employment contract, proof of accommodation and financial means, medical insurance, and a clean criminal record certificate.
4. Enter Romania and obtain a residence permit: After arrival, apply for a residence permit (single permit) at IGI. This document allows you to live and work in Romania for the contract period.
5. Family reunification: Once you have a residence permit, you may apply for family reunification under Romanian rules.

Processing times vary. Work permit issuance often takes several weeks, and visa appointments depend on consulate schedules. Plan for 2 to 3 months end-to-end.

Compliance tip: Keep copies of all documents. Reconfirm that your driving license and certifications are valid in Romania or can be exchanged before you start work.

Certification and License Recognition

Professional driving credentials must be valid and recognized in Romania.

Exchanging Your Driving License

• EU licenses: If you already hold an EU driving license with valid C, CE, or D categories and code 95, you can drive in Romania. If you take up residence, you may exchange your license for a Romanian one without retesting.
• Non-EU licenses: Romania may exchange licenses from certain countries based on reciprocity agreements. If your country has no exchange agreement, you may need to pass Romanian theory and practical exams for the categories you need.
• Documents commonly requested: Passport, residence permit, original license, translations if needed, medical and psychological fitness certificates, and proof of residence. Check the local driving license authority (DRPCIV) requirements.

CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) and Code 95

• EU requirement: Professional drivers must hold CPC, indicated by code 95 on the license. This confirms initial qualification and ongoing periodic training (35 hours every 5 years).
• Recognition: If your CPC is from an EU country, it is recognized across the EU, including Romania.
• Non-EU CPC: If obtained outside the EU, it may not be recognized. You might need to complete initial qualification or periodic training in Romania. Training is provided by authorized centers, and the Romanian Road Authority (ARR) oversees examinations and certification.

Digital Tachograph Card

• You need a valid driver tachograph card to operate vehicles equipped with tachographs. In Romania, tachograph cards are issued under the oversight of ARR.
• Apply with proof of identity, driver license, photograph, and fee. Keep track of expiration dates and renew early.
• Training: While many drivers learn tachograph use on the job, formal training is recommended. EU Regulation 165/2014 and Regulation 561/2006 govern tachograph use and driving and rest times.

ADR Certification

• If you transport dangerous goods, obtain ADR certification through an authorized training provider. Exams are overseen by ARR.
• Modules: Basic, classes-specific, tank, and explosives/radioactive modules depending on cargo.
• Validity: ADR certificates typically last 5 years and require refresher training before expiry.

Medical and Psychological Fitness

• Romanian standards require periodic medical and psychological evaluations for professional drivers. Authorized clinics issue fitness certificates. Keep these current, as they are often required for employment and license processes.

Salary and Benefits

Earnings vary by role, route, and employer. The approximate conversion rate used here is 1 EUR = about 4.97 RON. Figures are illustrative ranges and can change with market conditions.

• International HGV (CE) with EU routes: 2,000 to 3,000 EUR net per month, often structured as base salary plus per diems. Top earners on specialized routes and ADR tankers can exceed 3,200 EUR net.
• Domestic HGV distribution: 4,000 to 7,000 RON net per month (about 800 to 1,400 EUR), plus meal vouchers and bonuses.
• City bus driver (D): 4,000 to 6,500 RON net per month (about 800 to 1,300 EUR), depending on city, seniority, and shift premiums.
• Intercity/international coach: 1,200 to 2,200 EUR net, depending on employer and route frequency.
• Delivery van driver: 3,000 to 5,500 RON net (about 600 to 1,100 EUR), with performance bonuses in peak seasons.

Common benefits:

• Meal vouchers (tichete de masa).
• Per diems for travel days on international routes.
• Private health insurance or clinic subscriptions in larger firms.
• Accommodation assistance when away from base.
• Performance bonuses and safe driving bonuses.
• Paid training for CPC periodic modules and ADR.

Note on per diems and taxes: Per diems often receive favorable tax treatment within set limits under Romanian rules. Employers typically manage compliance. Always ask for a written salary structure explaining base pay, diems, and overtime.

Cost of Living in Romania

Romania's cost of living is moderate by EU standards and varies across cities.

Housing (monthly rent)

• Bucharest: 450 to 800 EUR for a 1-bedroom apartment in a well-connected area; 300 to 500 EUR in outer districts.
• Cluj-Napoca: 400 to 700 EUR, reflecting high demand in a tech and university city.
• Timisoara: 350 to 600 EUR, with good value near industrial zones.
• Iasi: 300 to 550 EUR, generally more affordable than Bucharest and Cluj.

Utilities and Internet

• Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage): 80 to 150 EUR per month depending on season and apartment size.
• Internet and mobile: 8 to 20 EUR per month for high-speed internet; mobile plans are competitive and affordable.

Food and Essentials

• Groceries for one person: 150 to 250 EUR per month with careful budgeting.
• Eating out: 6 to 12 EUR for a simple meal; 12 to 25 EUR for mid-range dining.
• Coffee: 2 to 3 EUR; local canteens can be cheaper.

Transportation and Fuel

• Public transport monthly passes: 15 to 25 EUR in most cities; Bucharest offers integrated passes at competitive prices.
• Diesel and petrol: Prices fluctuate, often around 6.5 to 7.5 RON per liter.
• Long-distance trains and intercity buses are budget-friendly, with discounts for subscriptions.

Overall, a single driver can live comfortably on 800 to 1,200 EUR per month outside of rent. Families should plan more depending on housing size and childcare.

Cultural Integration

Language

Romanian is a Romance language with Latin roots, making it approachable if you know Italian, Spanish, or French. Many younger people and professionals speak English, especially in logistics. Learning key phrases accelerates workplace trust and makes emergency interactions easier.

Basics:

• Hello: Buna
• Please: Va rog
• Thank you: Multumesc
• Yes/No: Da/Nu
• I do not understand: Nu inteleg

Workplace Culture

• Punctuality and reliability are highly valued. Arrive early for shifts and inspections.
• Paperwork matters. Keep neat records of CMRs, delivery notes, tachograph printouts, and inspection forms.
• Communication style is polite and direct. If you are unsure, ask for clarification.
• Safety-first mindset is growing across the industry. Drivers who follow procedures are respected.

Driving Culture

• Romania drives on the right side. If you come from a left-driving country, practice defensive driving while you adjust.
• Expect a mix of driving behaviors. Maintain safe distances and anticipate sudden maneuvers in urban traffic.
• Winter conditions can be challenging in mountain regions. Equip properly and plan routes with weather in mind.

Practical Steps to Relocate

1. Research employers and routes: Focus on companies with strong safety records and training support. Ask about accident protocols, claim handling, and roadside assistance.
2. Prepare documents: Passport, clean criminal record, driving licenses (C, CE, or D), CPC code 95, ADR if applicable, medical and psychological fitness certificates, tachograph card, references.
3. Secure a job offer: Interview online. Verify contract terms, pay structure, rest schedules, and insurance coverage.
4. Work permit and visa (non-EU): Coordinate with your employer to obtain the work permit. Apply for the D/AM long-stay visa and plan your move.
5. Housing and banking: Arrange temporary accommodation in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, or Iasi. Upon arrival, open a bank account and get a local SIM.
6. Residence permit: Book your IGI appointment early. Keep all originals and copies.
7. License exchange and certifications: Confirm if your license can be exchanged. Schedule CPC periodic training if needed. Apply for a Romanian tachograph card if yours is expiring.
8. Insurances: Verify employer coverage and your own health coverage. Consider private health add-ons.
9. Learn the road rules: Review Romanian transport laws and EU regulations on driving and rest times. Understand rovinieta (road vignette) rules and tolls.
10. Build your support network: Join expat driver groups, learn basic Romanian, and save key contacts (112, employer, insurer, embassy or consulate).

Success Tips from Other Expats

• Keep a ready-to-use accident kit: triangles, vests, first-aid kit, flashlight, power bank, spare fuses, gloves, and a laminated card with emergency phrases.
• Print and carry a European Accident Statement form in English and Romanian. Fill practice copies in advance so you know the fields.
• Maintain a digital vault: Store scans of your license, CPC, ADR, passport, residence permit, and insurance on a secure cloud.
• Respect EU driving and rest rules: Plan stops before you reach the limit. Avoid penalties that could jeopardize employment.
• Winterize early: Install winter tires as needed, carry chains if your routes include mountain passes, and keep de-icer and a small shovel.
• Be factual at crash scenes: Photograph, measure, and document. Avoid arguments and let insurers determine fault.
• Network locally: Mechanics, tow operators, and local dispatchers can be invaluable when you need help fast.

EU and Romanian Regulations You Must Know

• EU Regulation 561/2006: Sets driving times, breaks, and rest periods.
• Directive 2002/15/EC: Governs working time for mobile workers in road transport.
• Regulation 165/2014: Tachographs in road transport.
• CPC code 95: Proof of professional competence; periodic training every 5 years.
• Romanian road laws: Strict stance on drink-driving; safety equipment required; vests and triangles are mandatory.
• Tolls and vignettes: Romania uses an e-vignette (rovinieta) for national roads and bridges may have separate tolls. Trucks over 3.5 tons pay according to category.

Conclusion: Make Safety Your Competitive Edge

Moving from Global to Romania gives you access to an expanding, EU-integrated logistics sector. Employers value drivers who deliver on time, care for equipment, and handle emergencies with professionalism. Mastering what to do after a traffic accident abroad is not just about compliance. It is about protecting lives, safeguarding your career, and helping your company maintain its reputation and insurance standing.

If you are ready to take the next step, start by assembling your documentation, contacting reputable Romanian transport companies, and booking any required CPC, ADR, or tachograph training. Then, print this guide, save it to your phone, and keep it in your cab. Preparation is power. In Romania and across the EU, that preparation will set you apart.

FAQ

1) What should I always carry in my vehicle when driving in Romania or the EU?

Carry your ID, driving license with relevant categories and CPC code 95, vehicle registration, insurance (MTPL and, if applicable, Green Card), tachograph card, ADR documents if transporting dangerous goods, reflective vest, warning triangles, first-aid kit, and company documents (CMRs, delivery notes). Keep a European Accident Statement and a pen in the glove box.

2) How do I handle a minor accident with no injuries in Romania?

If only material damage occurs and both parties agree on the facts, you can complete an amicable accident report (constatare amiabila) without calling the police. Exchange full details, take photos, and inform your insurer promptly, typically within 24 hours. If there is any doubt or dispute, call 112 or go to the nearest police station to file a report.

3) I do not speak Romanian well. What if I cannot communicate at the scene?

Call 112 and request assistance. Many operators speak English. Use simple English with other drivers and show your documents. Keep a printed card with Romanian phrases and your employer's contact. Your dispatcher or claims handler may be able to speak with the other party or police by phone. Translation apps can help, but do not rely on them for legal statements; stick to facts.

4) Can I drive in Romania with my foreign license while I convert it?

EU licenses are valid in Romania. If you become a resident, you can exchange your EU license for a Romanian one without retesting. Non-EU licenses may be valid for a limited time for visitors. Once you take up residence, you may need to exchange your license or test in Romania depending on reciprocity agreements. Plan the exchange early to avoid gaps in your ability to work.

5) How do insurance claims work if the at-fault driver is foreign or uninsured?

For foreign insured drivers, you can file a claim through their insurer's Romanian claims representative under EU rules. Your insurer or broker can guide you. If the at-fault driver is uninsured or cannot be identified (hit-and-run), contact the police and seek assistance from BAAR (Romanian Motor Insurers Bureau) for possible compensation. Keep all evidence and official reports.

6) What winter equipment is required in Romania?

Winter tires are mandatory when winter conditions are present (snow, ice, black ice). For heavy vehicles, chains may be required on certain mountain roads when signed. Carry de-icer, a scraper, gloves, and a shovel. Plan routes considering weather forecasts and allow extra time for reduced speed and greater stopping distances.

7) What are my obligations regarding tachograph use after an accident?

Annotate the event. If you make a printout, write the date, time, location, and note accident or emergency. Ensure your driving, work, and rest periods remain compliant with Regulation 561/2006. If an accident disrupts your planned rest, coordinate with your dispatcher to re-plan legally compliant breaks before resuming normal operations.

8) How does Romania's stance on alcohol and drugs affect professional drivers?

Romania takes a strict zero-tolerance approach, particularly for professional drivers. Expect breath tests after accidents or traffic stops. Any presence of alcohol or drugs can lead to severe penalties, including license suspension and criminal charges. Always abstain when on duty and during rest periods if you might be called to drive.

9) What tolls and road charges should I know about in Romania?

Romania requires an e-vignette (rovinieta) for national roads. Prices vary by vehicle category and duration. Certain bridges and sections have separate tolls. Logistics companies usually manage toll accounts for HGV fleets, but drivers should verify that the vignette is active for their vehicle. Foreign drivers should check coverage before entering Romania.

10) Which EU rules on working time and rest apply to me?

Regulation 561/2006 and Directive 2002/15/EC apply across the EU. Typical maximums include 9 hours daily driving (twice per week you may extend to 10 hours), 56 hours weekly driving, and 90 hours in two consecutive weeks, with mandatory breaks and daily/weekly rests. Use your tachograph correctly, plan stops, and keep records for at least the last 28 days.