THE ESSENTIALS
Before you start
- The rule concerns acceptance of liability contrary to the position stated in the accident report.
- The additional-information period is five working days from the relevant communication.
- Submitting information does not guarantee a changed decision or replace help with a dispute.
Five working days in a legally identified situation
Article 36(4) of Decree-Law 291/2007 allows the policyholder or insured to submit information for reassessment when the insurer intends to accept liability contrary to an accident report in which that person denies responsibility. The period is five working days from the communication described in paragraph 1(e).
This is not a universal deadline for challenging every coverage refusal or proposed amount. Tiago should compare his statement with the notice received. The accident date, assessor’s visit and decision communication are different references; preserve the document and communication evidence.
A final communication follows the information
Paragraph 5 requires the final decision on that situation to be communicated to the policyholder or insured in writing or electronically within two working days after submission of the information. This does not require the insurer to agree with it.
Paragraph 6 halves certain periods in paragraph 1(b)–(e). Do not automatically halve the five days in paragraph 4 because a joint accident declaration exists. Articles 31–32 and the specific bodily-injury provisions delimit the framework; seek help to establish application to the actual case.
Identify what affects the assessment and its evidence
As an organisational method, Clara suggests three lines: the point Tiago disputes; the fact he wants to clarify; and the supporting evidence. An original photograph might show a sign’s position, or an image sequence might help place a manoeuvre. Evidence is useful according to what it actually shows.
Attach originals and identify them without changing dates, removing relevant details or filling gaps with assumptions. Point to a specific inconsistency between the notice and report, rather than merely writing that you reject blame. Witness details belong in the private claims channel, never in public comments.
Keep the answer and distinguish the different deadlines
Preserve the submission, its delivery evidence and the final decision. If the applicable period is unclear or has passed, or disagreement remains, obtain appropriate clarification and help without delaying action on notices. This mechanism alone does not determine all other rights or time limits in a dispute.
For an existing accident, use RMACHADO’s Policy support and claims route with the case reference. To compare future protection, select Motor insurance under Request a quote. A new quotation does not change liability for a previous accident or constitute legal representation.
KEEP THESE QUESTIONS
Your checklist for the next conversation
- Compare the accident-report position with the insurer’s notice.
- Keep the communication and establish the period for this legal mechanism.
- Link each new item to a fact and original supporting evidence.
- Keep the submission and final decision and seek help if disagreement remains.
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.