Vehicle Accident Affidavit: What to Include for Insurance Claims

Been in a car accident? One of the most important documents for your insurance claim is a vehicle accident affidavit. This sworn statement provides your account of what happened and is crucial for processing your claim. Here's what you need to know.

Why You Need a Vehicle Accident Affidavit

Insurance companies require an affidavit because it:

• Provides your official sworn account of the accident
• Documents key details while they're fresh in your memory
• Serves as legal evidence if disputes arise
• Helps establish fault and liability
• Is required for most insurance claims in South Africa

What to Include in Your Affidavit

A comprehensive vehicle accident affidavit should contain:

Your personal details:

• Full name and ID number
• Contact information
• Driver's license number

Accident details:

• Date and time of the accident
• Exact location (street names, suburb)
• Weather and road conditions
• Speed you were travelling

Vehicle information:

• Your vehicle registration, make, and model
• Other vehicle's registration (if obtained)
• Other driver's name and contact details

Description of events:

• What happened before, during, and after the collision
• Direction of travel for all vehicles
• Any injuries sustained
• Witness information (if available)

Tips for Writing Your Statement

• Be factual: Stick to what you observed, not assumptions
• Be specific: Include exact times, distances, and speeds if known
• Be honest: Don't exaggerate or omit important details
• Don't admit fault: Let the insurance company determine liability
• Keep it chronological: Describe events in the order they happened

Time Limits for Insurance Claims

Most insurance policies require you to report an accident within a specific timeframe:

• 24-48 hours: Report to your insurance company
• 24-72 hours: Report to police (if required by your policy)
• 30 days: Submit full claim documentation including affidavit

Check your policy wording for exact requirements - missing deadlines can affect your claim.

What to Do at the Scene

Before you write your affidavit, gather this information at the accident scene:

• Take photos of all vehicles, damage, and the scene
• Get the other driver's details and insurance information
• Collect witness names and contact numbers
• Note the exact location and time
• Don't admit fault or sign any documents

When to Report to Police

You should report the accident to SAPS if:

• Anyone was injured
• There's significant vehicle damage
• The other driver was intoxicated
• The other driver fled the scene
• Your insurance policy requires a police report

A police case number can strengthen your insurance claim.

Next Steps After the Affidavit

1. Get the affidavit commissioned at a police station
2. Submit a copy to your insurance company
3. Keep the original for your records
4. Follow up with your insurance assessor
5. Get quotes for repairs as requested