What to Do in Case of an Accident with a Rental Car in Bulgaria: Step-by-Step Guide
When hiring a car for a holiday, a business trip, or as a temporary replacement vehicle, an accident is the last thing you want to think about. However, the reality is that even the most cautious driver can encounter an unexpected situation on the road.
In moments like these, having a reliable and transparent partner makes all the difference. At DL Rent, we believe that clarity and personal support are essential. That is why full insurance is always included in our prices with zero hidden fees, and our dedicated team is on standby 24/7 to assist you.
Here is exactly what you should do if you are involved in a rental car accident in Bulgaria, how to respond safely, and how your insurance coverage works.
First Steps: Stay Calm and Secure the Scene
It is completely natural to feel stressed during an incident. Remind yourself that property damage can always be fixed, human safety is the absolute priority.
Check for injuries: Make sure you, your passengers, and anyone else involved are unhurt.
Secure the area: Switch on your hazard lights, put on your high-visibility reflective vest, and place your reflective warning triangle at least 30-50 meters behind the vehicle (or at least 100 meters on motorways and high-speed roads).
Stay at the scene: Leaving the scene of an accident is an offense under the Bulgarian Road Traffic Act and can invalidate your insurance coverage.
Contact the DL Rent Team Immediately (24/7 Support)
Once everyone is safe and the scene is secured, get in touch with us. Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to support you.
Please call us even if the damage seems minor (such as a small scratch or a flat tire). We will guide you step-by-step on:
Whether you need to notify the police / traffic authorities;
How to properly complete the necessary paperwork on-site;
How to proceed with the vehicle safely.
When Is Calling the Police (Tel. 112) Mandatory
In Bulgaria, minor incidents do not always require a police presence, but calling the emergency services (112) is legally mandatory if:
Anyone has been injured;
The vehicle is immobilized and cannot be driven safely;
The other driver is uncooperative, aggressive, or lacks valid documentation;
There is any suspicion of alcohol or drug impairment;
The other party involved leaves the scene;
There is a dispute over who was at fault.
Useful Tip: For minor collisions involving two vehicles with no injuries and clear agreement between drivers, a Joint European Accident Statement (bilateral report form) can be completed. If you are unsure how to fill it out, simply call our 24/7 hotline and we will walk you through it.
What NOT to Do After an Accident
To protect your insurance coverage and avoid unexpected costs, keep these crucial rules in mind:
DO NOT leave the scene before the police arrive or before the mutual accident statement is fully completed and signed.
DO NOT attempt to repair the vehicle yourself or at an unauthorized service shop.
DO NOT conceal any damage – inform us immediately so we can handle the situation quickly.
DO NOT sign documents you do not understand (especially if they are in a language you are not fluent in).
DO NOT allow an unauthorized driver to operate the vehicle if they are not explicitly named in your rental agreement.
What Does Insurance Cover at DL Rent
At DL Rent, we operate with complete transparency - there are no confusing insurance clauses or hidden surprises.
Full Insurance Included: Every booking includes full insurance coverage for road accidents, theft, and natural disasters.
No Hidden Fees: The price you see during booking is the final price you pay (including no extra airport fees for Sofia Airport or Plovdiv Airport).
Roadside Assistance: We organize towing and roadside service whenever needed.
Replacement Vehicle: If necessary, we arrange a replacement car immediately or within 48 hours, depending on your location and vehicle availability.
What Is Not Covered by Insurance?
It is important to note that, as with any insurance policy, coverage is void if the incident involves driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating substances, or if the car was driven by someone not named in the rental agreement.
Coverage is voided in cases of:
Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or narcotics;
Operation by an unauthorized driver not named in the contract;
Gross negligence or intentional interior damage;
Leaving the scene of an accident (violating Act (Art. 123) of the Road Traffic Act);
Failing to obtain an official police report or signed Joint Accident Statement.
Transparency and Care When You Need It Most
Accidents are unpleasant, but how your car rental company responds determines whether your trip is ruined or quickly resolved.
At DL Rent, you get exactly the well-maintained car you booked, clear terms, and personal support from start to finish. Explore our fleet of impeccably maintained models with full insurance included and no airport service fees in Sofia and Plovdiv.
Check availability and book online, or get in touch with our team for questions about rental terms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happens to my security deposit in the event of an accident?
Your deposit remains fully protected as long as you follow the standard procedure: notify us immediately and provide a completed Mutual Accident Statement or an official police report. In these cases, our full insurance covers the damage and your deposit is not affected. Your deposit is only withheld in cases of gross negligence, driving under the influence, unauthorized drivers, or failure to secure an official police protocol/accident statement.
What should I do if I only cause a minor scratch?
Simply call our 24/7 hotline. We will advise you whether you need to complete a Mutual Accident Statement or call the police. It is important to inform us right away so that the cosmetic damage can be properly covered under the insurance terms.
About the Author
Gergana Ivanova – Category B Driving Instructor & Co-founder of DL Rent.
With extensive experience in driver training and fleet management, Gergana ensures that DL Rent customers receive transparent service, impeccably maintained cars, and complete peace of mind behind the wheel.
