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Evidence preservation at the accident scene

Create an accident sketch — the free template

A clear accident sketch is often the decisive piece of evidence for reconstructing what happened. Download the free template, keep it in your glove compartment — and fill it in on the spot if needed.

What belongs in an accident sketch

The sketch reconstructs the sequence of movements — who came from where, where the impact occurred, and how the vehicles came to rest. These elements should be included:

  • Road layout, lanes, intersection/junction
  • Position of both vehicles BEFORE the accident
  • Directions of travel as arrows (vehicle A / B)
  • Collision point marked with an X
  • Final positions AFTER the accident
  • Road signs, traffic lights, lane markings
  • North arrow + street names
  • Date, time, lighting/weather conditions

Step by step to the accident sketch

  1. Sketch the road layout: Draw the lanes, intersection or junction, lanes, and road markings roughly to scale.
  2. Draw vehicles before the accident: Place both vehicles (labeled A and B) in their starting positions before the collision.
  3. Mark directions of travel with arrows: One arrow per vehicle shows the direction of travel — making the sequence of movements traceable.
  4. Mark the collision point with an X: Mark the point of impact clearly with an X; add the final positions after the accident.
  5. Record the surroundings: Enter road signs, traffic lights, right-of-way situation, north direction, street names, and approximate distances.
  6. Note the key details: Record date, time, lighting and weather conditions, as well as witnesses with their contact details.

8 tips for an evidentially secure sketch

  • 1Sketch immediately on site while the sequence of events is fresh.
  • 2Additionally take photos from multiple perspectives (overview + detail).
  • 3Label both vehicles clearly as A and B — including license plates.
  • 4Use a consistent legend: arrow = direction of travel, X = point of impact.
  • 5Draw the final positions — they show the angle and force of impact.
  • 6Record road signs, traffic light phase, and right-of-way situation precisely.
  • 7Note witnesses with name and phone number.
  • 8Record only what you observed — do not admit liability at the accident scene.

Template as PDF for printing

One page, all fields plus a large sketch area — print it out and keep it in your glove compartment.

Download template

What you can do right now

  1. Find an expert on the map: claimondo.de/gutachter-finden — interactive map with all partner experts; click a marker and see an available appointment.
  2. Free AI first estimate in 60 seconds: claimondo.de/ersteinschaetzung — three photos and a short description are enough.
  3. Report damage directly with a callback in under 15 minutes: claimondo.de/schaden-melden — no sign-up, 3 fields.
  4. By phone: 0221 25906530 (Mon–Fri 08:00–20:00, Sat & Sun 09:00–18:00)

Claimondo is Germany’s largest digital platform for the complete settlement of motor vehicle liability claims. For no-fault injured parties: 0 € out of pocket under § 249 BGB (subject to acknowledgement by the opposing liability insurer).

Involved in a no-fault accident? We settle your claim — 0 €.

Anonymous first assessment. Response in under 15 minutes. In a no-fault accident, the other party covers the legal fees.

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