Make the scene safe
After a road accident, check for injuries and immediate danger before thinking about the vehicle. If anyone is hurt, there is a fire or another urgent hazard, call 112 and follow the operator’s instructions. Turn on hazard lights if it is safe. Do not stand in a live traffic lane, and move yourself and passengers to a protected place when possible. Never put yourself in danger to take photographs or exchange details.
Do not try to drive a vehicle with serious damage, leaking fluids, a damaged wheel, steering problems or warning signs that make it unsafe. Even apparently minor damage can affect roadworthiness. If there is doubt, stop driving and arrange suitable recovery. Do not move injured people unless there is an immediate danger and follow emergency guidance. Instructions from services at the scene take priority over organising vehicle collection.
Follow the reporting process
The appropriate steps depend on what happened and whether anyone was injured. In Latvia, a European Accident Statement can be used when the circumstances meet the applicable requirements and participants agree on the facts. If there are injuries, disagreement or other circumstances requiring police involvement, contact the police and follow their directions. When unsure, ask the responsible services rather than assuming that an informal arrangement is enough.
Exchange necessary details and record the location, time, registrations and contact information. Photograph vehicles, damage, road layout and relevant signs only when safe. Keep your account factual: do not guess about speed, fault or the collision’s cause. Preserve original images and documents. Do not sign statements you do not understand or that do not reflect your account; ask for clarification before agreeing to the description.
Arrange towing without adding risk
Once people are safe and reporting steps are under control, consider whether the vehicle can be moved. If it cannot be driven safely, a tow truck can take it to a workshop or another agreed destination. Tell the operator about collision damage, locked wheels, the vehicle’s position and access restrictions. A damaged vehicle may require different equipment and handling from one with a simple mechanical fault.
Napolo offers straightforward towing from €30; accident recovery and locked wheels also start from €30. We confirm the exact price by phone with no hidden surcharges. Based in Pārdaugava, we prioritise Pārdaugava, Jūrmala, Babīte, Piņķi and Mārupe and work 24/7. All Riga is served, with nationwide and international transport at a fixed price quoted before departure. Call +371 27 23 24 23 or send your location via WhatsApp.
Contact your insurer
Notify your insurer as soon as practical and ask what documents and next steps it requires. If another insurer may be involved, ask how to submit information and where the vehicle should be inspected. Keep the accident statement, police information where applicable, photographs, repair estimates and towing documents. Record the date and reference number for conversations, and retain written guidance so the agreed process is clear.
Do not assume towing, storage, repairs or a particular destination are automatically covered. Coverage depends on the policy, circumstances and applicable limits or conditions. Before authorising non-urgent work, ask whether the insurer needs to inspect the vehicle or approve a repairer. If immediate recovery is necessary for safety, keep the invoice and explain why it was arranged. The recovery operator cannot guarantee reimbursement or determine your insurance entitlement.
Keep the process organised
Write down a short timeline while details are fresh, separating personal observations from what others told you. Preserve correspondence and receipts together. If you later notice pain or other symptoms, seek medical advice; the initial roadside impression may not tell the whole story. If you feel overwhelmed, ask someone you trust to help with calls and paperwork. Avoid repair or disposal of damaged parts until the insurer’s requirements are clear.
When requesting collection, provide the exact location, make, model and destination, and mention gates or restricted access. Do not inspect unsafe parts just to answer technical questions. Agree movement with any police or road services present. A calm sequence helps: secure people, contact emergency services when needed, record facts safely, arrange recovery and speak to the insurer. Call Napolo on +371 27 23 24 23 for vehicle assistance; rely on your insurer for coverage decisions.