THE ESSENTIALS
Before you start
- Disputed facts call for clear records, not an invented shared account.
- The form does not require an admission of fault.
- Keep copies and delivery evidence through the indicated channels.
ASF guidance on separate statements
ASF says that without agreement each driver should complete and sign their own form and deliver it to the other vehicle's insurer. It recommends identifying those involved, vehicles, policies and witnesses and adding photos. Police should be requested for bodily injury. Completing the statement does not require admitting fault.
Sources: ASF — O que fazer em caso de acidente?, orientação pública consultada em 28/10/2026 ↗
Separate observations from unresolved questions
A useful note records location, direction of travel, the manoeuvre observed and contact points. Mark unknown details rather than filling them with assumptions. A simple diagram and legend should explain lanes, positions and movement.
In the fictional example, Tiago says he was stationary while the other driver describes a lane change. Clara suggests separating what Tiago observed from what he heard later. Before signing, he should read the circumstances, sketch and comments; agreeing with a registration or identification detail does not mean agreeing with an arrow he considers wrong. The story does not determine which account is correct.
List the available evidence
Where safe and possible, organise wider views of the scene and close-ups of damage, retaining original files. Identify what each image shows and the sequence of collection. Do not edit away an inconvenient detail or post documents or number plates on social media to seek support.
Tiago needs the car to get to work, but urgency about transport should not change the collision account. Clara suggests a separate list of towing or travel questions so they are not confused with the collision facts. Witness contacts remain in the private file; providing contact details does not prove that a witness endorsed Tiago’s interpretation.
Confirm delivery and outstanding questions
Check your own policy's reporting obligations too and ask your insurer or intermediary about recipients and channels. Keep the signed version, attachments and delivery evidence. Disagreement at the scene should not leave the report unattended.
For RMACHADO, raise administrative questions with the case reference through the indicated channel. Receipt of a report is not acceptance of liability, repair authorisation or a payment promise. Emergency assistance and authorities' instructions take priority over completing a form.
KEEP THESE QUESTIONS
Your checklist for the next conversation
- Prioritise safety and request authorities when necessary.
- Describe observations and mark unknowns.
- Organise statements, photos and contacts for the process.
- Confirm recipients, delivery and your policy's obligations.
FROM THE ARTICLE TO YOUR SITUATION
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Sources and transparency
Content updated on .
Consultation dates are stated in individual references when available.
Numerical examples are fictional and explain concepts. Editorial interpretations are identified in the text.
Information from RMACHADO GROUP. This is not an insurance offer or individual advice. Covers, acceptance, exclusions, sums insured and costs depend on the policy. The intermediary does not underwrite the risks.