Declaring a car insurance claim : Steps to follow

A fender-bender, a collision, a broken windshield… Car accidents can happen anytime and are often stressful. Reacting properly and following the correct steps to declare a car insurance claim can make all the difference in getting fairly compensated.

1. Prioritize safety above all 

  • Secure the accident scene: Turn on hazard lights, set up the warning triangle if possible.

  • Think of people: If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately.

  • Don’t move the vehicles before recording everything or taking photos.

2. Fill out the accident report form

This is THE key document in any car accident, it helps your insurer understand the circumstances.

To do on-site with the other driver:

  • Note the date, time, location, and visible damages.

  • Tick the correct boxes describing the situation (parking, overtaking, etc.).

  • Draw a sketch and take photos of the scene.

  • Both parties must sign (once signed, it cannot be altered!).

💡Always carry a printed copy with you. Digital versions are also available via insurance apps!

3. Report the claim as soon as possible 

How to report:

  • Via your online client area or mobile app

  • By phone

  • By registered mail with the report and supporting documents

Documents to provide:

  • The completed accident report

  • Photos of the damage

  • A witness statement, if applicable

  • Your auto insurance policy number

4. Assessment and repair

Depending on the damage:

  • The insurer may assign an expert to assess the repairs.

  • You’ll then receive a compensation offer or approval for repair at an approved garage.

💡If your car is non-drivable, your policy may include assistance (breakdown, towing, courtesy car, etc.).

5. Compensation

Once the assessment is done:

  • Your insurer reimburses you according to your policy (comprehensive, third-party, etc.).

  • If you disagree, you can dispute the expert’s opinion or request a second opinion.

Links to online claim declarations for major Swiss insurers

Helvetia : https://www.helvetia.com/ch/web/fr/personnes-privees/contact/declarer-sinistre/sinistre-vehicule.html#/entry

La Mobilière : https://secure.mobiliere.ch/mcs-osm-b2c/mobi/public/osm/1?language=fr

Allianz : https://www.allianz.ch/crp/fnol/motor/ui/fr-CH#(fnol-retail:/start-new-claim)

Zurich : https://claims.zurich.ch/?_gl=1*7cza1l*_gcl_au*ODA1MTMwNTIuMTc0NDI3Mjk1OQ..*_ga*NjQyMDI2MjU4LjE3NDQyNzI5NTg.*_ga_RR5GJ1LRK6*MTc0NDI3Mjk1OC4xLjAuMTc0NDI3Mjk1OC4wLjAuMAAxa : https://www.axa.ch/fr/particuliers/sinistres/declarer-sinistre/declaration-sinistre-assurance-auto/form-car-nologin.html

Vaudoise : https://vm-claims.vaudoise.ch/declarer-type?lang=fr Baloise : https://www.baloise.ch/fr/clients-prives/contact-services/sinistre.html Generali : https://www.generali.ch/fr/applications/declarer-sinistre-assurances-auto Smile : https://www.smile-insurances.com/ch/main/fr/home/services/declaration-de-sinistre/damage-car.html

Written on 24 April 2025

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