WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE INVOLVED IN A SERIOUS
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ACCIDENT ABROAD OBefore making a trip abroad make sure you are covered for all eventualities, including liability for third-party injuries. Your basic insurance may not cover this, so check with your broker.
*Take a European Accident Statement form. It may not help you escape blame, but it will establish the facts for the police and your insurer. These are available from brokers.
• If going to Spain you will need a bail bond by law. Again, contact your broker.
• if you are an international haulier think seriously about joining a trade association.
Not only can they provide you with expert advice on laws and insurance requirements before you make a journey to a particular country, they can also help in a crisis.
The Road Haulage Association, as well as smaller organisations such as Owner Operators UK and Unit 91, can put you in touch with local solicitors or make phone calls on a member's behalf.
Jenny Ayres from the international desk of the Freight Transport Association frequently has to come to the rescue of members whose drivers are involved in accidents abroad, but says that if an operator is prepared before a trip there are very rarely problems.
*Stay calm after an accident. Never drive away from the scene except to get help in an emergency, and never admit liability.
• If the occident is fatal get in touch with the nearest consulate. Under EC low the police should put you in con
Bob Elder: people gathered round following the fatal accident, but nobody turned nasty.
tact with the consul who will provide limited advice and help you find a local solicitor. The Foreign Office in London (071-270 3000) will also be able to give you consulates phone numbers.
• If your truck is impounded, but you are not arrested, get out of the country. In the past 12 months transport law expert Colin Ward has dealt with eight cases of truck drivers involved in fatal accidents. He says many drivers are reluctant to leave their trucks: "If you have been in touch with your insurer, you have nothing to worry about if your vehicle is being held by the police. The only place a national can find solace with the system is in his own country."