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Tips & Advies

Recording Evidence After a Collision in Delft: Checklist for Strong Claims

In Delft many claims arise after cycling accidents on canal paths or near the TU campus. Photos, witnesses and medical recording within 72 hours make the difference. Avoid social media and early apologies. A personal injury lawyer on the Phoenixstraat provides assistance free of charge.

3 min leestijd

Delft features narrow canal paths and busy cycling routes along the Oude Delft and the Mekelweg near the TU campus. Accidents involving expats and students occur regularly in these locations. The first hours thereafter determine whether your file will hold up with the insurer or before the Rechtbank Den Haag.

First steps after a collision in the city centre

At the scene

  • Photos and videos — record final positions, damage, road surface, skid marks and traffic signs before anything is moved
  • Witnesses — note contact details and make a short voice memo of what they observed
  • Police — involve them in case of injury; request the proces-verbaal number immediately
  • European accident statement form — complete in full and have it signed, or note that no agreement has been reached

Within 24 hours

  • Medical recording — visit your GP or the emergency department, even for minor complaints that may worsen later such as whiplash
  • Start a diary — record complaints, limitations and sleep deprivation; this builds evidence for damages for pain and suffering (smartengeld)
  • Inform your employer in writing — stating the date and reason for absence

Within 72 hours

  • Notice of liability (aansprakelijkstelling) — send by registered post to the other party or their WAM insurer to interrupt the limitation period
  • Injury photos — record bruises and aids with the date before they disappear
  • Obtain advice — contact a personal injury lawyer (letselschadeadvocaat); the costs are often borne by the opposing party

Mistakes that can undermine your claim

  1. Do not post on social media — insurers check accounts; a photo of an outing can undermine your pain complaints
  2. Do not apologise at the scene — a polite “sorry” is often used against you
  3. Do not accept a low offer immediately; initial offers are often well below what is achievable
  4. Do not sign a settlement agreement (vaststellingsovereenkomst) without legal review; otherwise you lose rights to future complaints
  5. Do not speak only with your own insurer if the other party is liable
  6. Avoid doctor shopping — too many changes weaken the consistent picture of your complaints

Reconstructing evidence when time is pressing

Weeks later it is more difficult, but still possible. Request CCTV footage from shops along the Phoenixstraat or the station. Check cycling apps for times and request attendance logs from your employer. A personal injury lawyer at Phoenixstraat 16, 2611 AL Delft (070 - 4500 300) knows which traces remain usable and can also refer you via Juridisch Loket Delft.