11 min
Traveling around Georgia in a rental car means freedom, adventure, and new experiences. However, even on vacation, unforeseen situations may occur, such as a road traffic accident. What should you do if you get into an accident while driving a vehicle from our rental company? Don’t worry – we have prepared a detailed guide to help you stay calm and handle all formalities correctly. Read on to learn the step-by-step action plan, tips for taking photos, communicating with other parties involved, and handling insurance matters.
First Steps at the Accident Scene
If an accident occurs, the most important thing is not to panic and to follow a clear algorithm. First, make sure you are safe, then take the necessary actions. Below is a step-by-step instruction for dealing with an accident in Georgia:
In the event of an accident in Georgia, you must stop the vehicle, turn on the hazard lights, place a warning triangle, and call the police using the single emergency number 112 (works without a SIM card; Russian-speaking operators are available). Do not leave the scene until the police arrive, document the damage with photos/videos, and complete the required paperwork for the insurance company.
Step-by-step instruction:
- Stop – turn off the engine, put on a reflective vest, and place the warning triangle.
- Call 112 – report the accident, the exact location, and whether there are any injuries.
- Wait for the police – do not move the vehicle until the patrol arrives. During this time, take photos/videos of the overall accident scene: skid marks, road signs, vehicle positions, and damage.
- Exchange information – record the contact details of the other party and their insurance information, and provide yours in return.
- Wait for the police report – after inspection, you will be issued an official accident report (certificate).
- Notify the insurance company – inform the insurer about the incident within the required timeframe.
By following these steps, you will ensure proper order at the accident scene and lay the foundation for a successful resolution. Below, we will review each point in more detail and provide additional advice.
Photo Documentation: What and How to Photograph
Proper photo and video documentation of the accident scene will help resolve matters with the insurance company and clarify any disputes. Here is what is recommended to capture:
- Overall view: Start with several photos showing the general scene. Capture how the vehicles are positioned relative to each other and the road. Include nearby landmarks – road signs, traffic lights, markings, buildings. These photos will provide a complete picture of the circumstances.
- All vehicles involved: Photograph each vehicle from different angles. It is important that the license plates are clearly visible along with the damage. Avoid close-up shots of the plate alone – it is better if the plate is visible within the overall context of the vehicle and surroundings. Take multiple shots: front, rear, and sides.
- Close-ups of damage: Record all visible damage in detail. Photograph dents, scratches, broken headlights, and shattered glass – every detail. Ideally, these close-ups should still show some reference to the vehicle or surroundings to make them more convincing.
- Traces and conditions: Photograph skid marks, debris, broken parts, and glass fragments on the road. If the accident occurred at night, use flash to ensure small details are visible. Also document road conditions – wet asphalt, potholes, snow, or other factors that may have influenced the situation.
- Documents and signs: If possible, photograph the other driver’s insurance document (with their permission) or at least record its details. You may photograph a driver’s license only with the owner’s consent. Do not forget to photograph nearby road signs or traffic lights, especially if they are relevant (e.g., “Yield” sign, pedestrian crossing). These details help reconstruct the event.
Tip: Make sure the photos are clear and sharp. If it is dark, in addition to using flash, you may ask someone to illuminate the area with headlights or a flashlight. The better the photo quality, the easier it will be for the insurance company and police to assess the situation. Save all photos and videos – they are your main evidence.
Communication with the Other Party
An accident is stressful for everyone involved, so it is important to behave politely and correctly. Here are some recommendations:
- Stay calm: Start the conversation in a calm tone. Even if you believe the other party is at fault, avoid shouting or arguing. Take a few deep breaths and maintain a friendly tone. Your goal is to resolve the situation, not to release emotions.
- Be respectful: Address the other driver politely. In Georgia, people value courtesy and composure. If you do not speak Georgian, you may try Russian or English. Avoid direct accusations; instead, describe the situation neutrally.
- Exchange information calmly: Ask for the other driver’s name, phone number, insurance details, and license plate number, and provide your own information in return. Say something like, “Let’s exchange details for the insurance company.”
- Do not sign anything without understanding: If the other driver asks you to sign a document on the spot, do not rush. Politely state that you prefer to wait for the police and official documentation.
Friendliness and restraint work wonders even in unpleasant situations. A calm tone reduces tension and helps the process go faster and more smoothly.
How to Stay Calm in a Stressful Situation
Being involved in an accident is stressful, especially in a foreign country. Your main tools are calmness and a clear mind.
- Breathe deeply: Take slow, deep breaths to lower adrenaline and regain control.
- Follow the plan: Focus on completing each step one by one. A clear action plan reduces confusion.
- Do not overthink worst-case scenarios: Insurance and police procedures exist to resolve such issues. You are not alone – you have support from the police, insurance, and CabrioGE.
- Allow yourself to decompress: After completing the formalities, take a short break, drink water, and restore your breathing.
Stress is natural, but by acting step by step, you can keep emotions under control.
If the Other Party Is Uncooperative
If the other party behaves improperly, refuses to provide information, or attempts to leave the scene, act carefully:
- Avoid conflict: Do not respond with aggression. Wait for the police.
- Document everything: Record or photograph the license plate and vehicle. Do not pursue the vehicle yourself – call 112 immediately.
- Call the police promptly: Inform the operator about the behavior of the other party.
- Contact CabrioGE: You can always call CabrioGE for support, translation assistance, or further guidance.
CabrioGE Insurance and Police Report
All CabrioGE vehicles are insured under CASCO, meaning most damages are covered. However, proper documentation is required.
- A police report is mandatory. Always call 112, even for minor damage.
- Notify CabrioGE. Contact us immediately after ensuring safety.
- Collect all documents: Ensure the police report contains complete information and forward it to the insurance company promptly.
- Deductible and coverage: CASCO usually covers damages, though a deductible may apply. Proper documentation ensures financial protection.
In summary: police report + insurance notification = financial protection. Our car rental company in Georgia will do everything possible to ensure a smooth compensation process.
Conclusion
No one is fully insured against accidents, but knowing how to act will make the situation much easier. Georgia is a hospitable country, and assistance is readily available. The 112 service provides Russian- and English-speaking operators, and the CabrioGE team is always ready to support you.
We hope this guide gives you confidence. May your journeys be safe and filled only with pleasant memories. But if something unexpected happens, now you know what to do step by step. Calmness, politeness, and following the recommendations will help you handle any road situation quickly and without unnecessary stress. The CabrioGE team wishes you a safe journey and is always ready to assist you when needed. Have a great trip!
