What Happens if I Damage a Rental Car?
If you damage a rental car, stop using the vehicle if it may be unsafe, document what happened, contact the rental company immediately and follow its instructions. Do not attempt to hide the damage or arrange repairs yourself. Whether you have to pay anything depends on how the damage occurred, the insurance included with the rental, any applicable excess and whether the damage is excluded from cover.
Damage does not automatically mean that you must pay the full repair cost.
For example, the damage may be:
- Fully covered
- Covered but subject to an excess
- Caused by another identifiable driver
- Excluded from the insurance
- Caused through negligence or misuse
- Subject to additional investigation
With Blanca Cars, any damage caused by you or a third party must currently be reported immediately. The Blanca Cars FAQ states that failure to report damage can result in the renter becoming fully liable for the damage.
If another vehicle is involved, accident documentation becomes especially important. Blanca Cars requires the appropriate accident information to be collected and the incident reported according to its rental conditions.
Last reviewed: 29 August 2026
Reviewed by: Blanca Cars Operations Team
Applies to: Rental-car damage in Spain, with specific information about Blanca Cars rentals on the Costa Blanca
Quick Answer: What Should I Do if I Damage a Rental Car?
If your rental car is damaged:
- Stop somewhere safe.
- Check whether anyone is injured.
- Do not continue driving if the vehicle may be unsafe.
- Take photographs of the damage and surrounding area.
- Collect details from any other driver involved.
- Complete the European Accident Statement when another vehicle is involved.
- Contact the rental company immediately.
- Contact police or emergency services when required.
- Do not arrange repairs yourself unless authorised.
- Keep all documents and photographs.
For Blanca Cars customers, use the emergency contact information supplied with the rental.
The current Blanca Cars FAQ also lists the emergency contact number as:
Does Damaging a Rental Car Mean I Have to Pay for It?
Not necessarily.
The answer depends on:
- Who caused the damage
- What was damaged
- How the damage happened
- What insurance is included
- Whether an excess applies
- Whether the damage is excluded
- Whether you followed the rental conditions
- Whether the accident was properly documented
Consider three different situations.
Situation 1 — Another Driver Causes the Accident
Another driver collides with your rental car.
You obtain their details, complete the required accident documentation and report everything correctly.
The other driver’s insurance may ultimately be responsible.
Situation 2 — You Cause an Accident
You reverse into another vehicle.
Your rental insurance may still provide protection, but an excess can apply.
Situation 3 — You Damage an Excluded Item
You damage a wheel against a kerb.
If wheel damage is specifically excluded from your rental insurance, you may be responsible for the repair even though broader collision insurance is included.
The circumstances matter.
What Should I Do Immediately After Damage Occurs?
The first priority is safety.
If you have been involved in an accident:
Stop Safely
Do not continue driving simply because the vehicle still moves.
Look for:
- Fluid leaks
- Damaged tyres
- Broken lights
- Loose bodywork
- Steering problems
- Warning lights
- Smoke
- Significant mechanical noise
If you are uncertain whether the vehicle is safe:
Do not drive it.
Contact the rental company.
What if Someone Is Injured?
Call emergency services immediately.
The general emergency telephone number in Spain and throughout the European Union is:
112
DGT states that when people are injured following a traffic collision, emergency services or police should be contacted so that the injured can receive assistance and the incident can be properly managed.
Do not prioritise photographs or insurance paperwork over helping injured people.
Should I Photograph the Damage?
Yes.
Take photographs when it is safe to do so.
Useful photographs include:
- Entire rental vehicle
- Close-up of damage
- Other vehicle
- Registration plates
- Position of vehicles
- Road
- Junction
- Road signs
- Road markings
- Traffic lights
- Nearby objects
- Skid marks where relevant
Also photograph anything that helps explain what happened.
DGT recommends including photographs of an accident and resulting damage when possible.
Should I Contact Blanca Cars Immediately?
Yes.
The current Blanca Cars FAQ states that if the rental car is damaged because of your own error or that of a third party, the incident must be reported to Blanca Cars immediately.
The Terms similarly require the renter to immediately notify Blanca Cars following an accident or damage.
Do not wait until:
- The following day
- The end of your holiday
- Vehicle return
- Someone from Blanca Cars notices the damage
Report it when it happens.
How Quickly Must I Report an Accident to Blanca Cars?
The current Blanca Cars FAQ says customers involved in a collision must inform Blanca Cars or its partners within four hours of the accident using the emergency contact number.
However, the best approach is simpler:
Report the accident immediately.
The four-hour period should not be treated as a reason to delay contacting Blanca Cars.
What Happens if I Don’t Report the Damage?
This can seriously affect your financial responsibility.
The current Blanca Cars FAQ states:
Failure to report damage will result in the renter being fully liable for the damage.
The Terms also make proper accident reporting part of the insurance conditions. Repair costs may become the renter’s responsibility where the required accident or police report was not completed within the required period or did not accurately reflect what happened.
Therefore:
Never hide rental-car damage.
Even if the damage appears minor, report it.
What if Another Car Is Involved?
Collect as much information as possible.
You should normally obtain:
- Driver’s full name
- Contact information
- Vehicle registration
- Vehicle make and model
- Insurance information
- Witness details
- Photographs
You should also complete the relevant accident documentation.
DGT states that a European Accident Statement, also known in Spain as a Declaración Amistosa de Accidente, should contain information about the vehicles, damage and circumstances of the incident and should be provided to the insurer.
What Is the European Accident Statement?
The European Accident Statement is a standard form used to record a traffic collision.
It normally records:
- Date
- Time
- Location
- Drivers
- Vehicles
- Insurance details
- Circumstances
- Visible damage
- Diagram of the accident
- Signatures
Because the form uses the same numbered structure across much of Europe, it can be particularly useful for international visitors driving in Spain.
Read: How Do I Complete a European Accident Statement in Spain?
Do I Need to Sign the Accident Form?
Only sign a statement if you agree that the information recorded on it is correct.
DGT advises that signatures from the parties are important but says that where there is disagreement, it is preferable not to sign inaccurate information and to contact police instead.
Do not sign something simply because:
- The other driver pressures you
- You do not understand the language
- You want to leave quickly
Record the facts accurately.
Should I Admit That the Accident Was My Fault?
Focus on recording facts, not negotiating legal responsibility at the roadside.
For example, record:
- Direction each vehicle was travelling
- Location
- Vehicle positions
- Traffic signs
- Damage
- Witnesses
Allow the insurers and, where necessary, authorities to determine responsibility based on the evidence.
Do I Need to Call the Police?
It depends on the circumstances, but you should always follow the rental company’s accident instructions.
Police or emergency services are particularly important where:
- Someone is injured
- Drivers disagree about what happened
- The other driver refuses to provide details
- The other driver leaves the scene
- There is serious damage
- There is suspected alcohol or drug involvement
- Public property is damaged
- The road is blocked or dangerous
For Blanca Cars specifically, the current FAQ instructs customers involved in an accident to contact the appropriate police authorities as part of the reporting procedure.
What if the Damage Is Only a Small Scratch?
Report it.
Do not decide yourself that a scratch is too small to matter.
A scratch can involve:
- Paint
- Clear coat
- Plastic bumper
- Metal panel
- Multiple damaged panels
The current Blanca Cars Terms specifically mention body scratches and collisions with objects among damage circumstances that can trigger an applicable excess or repair charge.
Take photographs and contact Blanca Cars.
What if I Scratch the Car While Parking?
Parking and manoeuvring damage is specifically addressed in the current Blanca Cars Terms.
Examples include:
- Scraping a wall
- Hitting a bollard
- Hitting another vehicle
- Damaging a bumper
- Scratching a panel
The current Terms state that an excess can apply where damage results from the customer’s fault, including damage caused while parking or manoeuvring.
Read: What Should I Do if My Rental Car Is Damaged While Parked?
What if Another Driver Hits My Parked Rental Car?
Document everything.
If the other driver is still present:
- Obtain their details.
- Record their registration.
- Complete the accident form.
- Take photographs.
- Contact Blanca Cars.
If they have left:
- Photograph the damage.
- Photograph the surrounding area.
- Look for witnesses.
- Record any available registration information.
- Contact Blanca Cars.
- Follow instructions regarding police reporting.
Do not simply assume that because you were not driving, the damage will automatically be free of any renter responsibility.
The evidence identifying the responsible party matters.
What if the Damage Was Not My Fault?
Proper documentation is crucial.
The current Blanca Cars Terms state that where an accident involving another vehicle is not the customer’s fault, full coverage applies when the required damage report or police report is provided, subject to the rental conditions.
For example:
Another driver hits you.
You obtain:
- Driver details
- Registration
- Accident report
- Photographs
You notify Blanca Cars immediately.
This gives the insurer the evidence needed to deal with the responsible party.
What if the Accident Was My Fault?
The Blanca Cars insurance still provides protection, but an applicable excess can arise.
The current Terms state that an accident where the customer is at fault can carry a:
minimum €300 + IVA excess
with the exact amount depending on the vehicle model.
This means:
At-fault damage does not automatically mean paying the entire value of the car.
But it can result in an excess according to the rental agreement.
Read: What Is a Car Hire Excess?
What if I Hit a Wall, Post or Other Object?
This is normally treated differently from a collision where another identifiable driver caused the damage.
Examples include:
- Wall
- Bollard
- Garage pillar
- Gate
- Tree
- Roadside object
The current Blanca Cars Terms state that accidents against objects and body scratches can be subject to a minimum €150–€350 plus IVA excess depending on the vehicle under the circumstances described in the Terms.
Report the damage immediately.
What if I Don’t Have an Accident Report?
Missing accident documentation can change the insurance treatment significantly.
The current Blanca Cars Terms specifically identify incidents involving another driver without the required accident report or police report as situations where a minimum excess can apply.
The FAQ also warns that failure to complete the required claim documentation can result in the insurer withdrawing cover, potentially leaving the renter liable for the damage.
This is why the paperwork matters almost as much as the physical damage.
Can I Repair the Rental Car Myself?
No, not unless Blanca Cars authorises it.
Do not:
- Visit a body shop independently
- Buy touch-up paint
- Replace damaged parts
- Arrange your own tyre replacement
- Attempt mechanical repairs
- Ask a friend to repair the vehicle
The rental company owns the vehicle and must control how repairs are handled.
Contact Blanca Cars and follow its instructions.
Should I Try to Hide a Scratch Before Returning the Car?
No.
Trying to hide or repair damage can:
- Make the damage worse
- Interfere with insurance
- Make the circumstances harder to establish
- Breach the rental agreement
Report the damage accurately.
Rental-car insurance works best when the customer is transparent about what happened.
Does Full-Cover Insurance Mean Damage Is Free?
No.
Blanca Cars includes broad insurance, but full cover is still subject to:
- Excesses
- Exclusions
- Accident-reporting requirements
- Driver responsibilities
- Rental conditions
For example, the Terms identify specific responsibilities involving:
- At-fault accidents
- Parking damage
- Tyres and wheels
- Lost keys
- Wrong fuel
- Interior damage
- Negligence
- Misuse
Read: What Does Full-Cover Car Hire Mean?
What Damage May Not Be Covered?
Insurance exclusions depend on the rental company.
Under the current Blanca Cars Terms, specifically excluded or restricted items currently include areas such as:
- Tyres
- Wheels
- Replacement keys
- Wrong fuel
- Personal belongings
- Certain interior damage
- Damage caused by prohibited off-road use
- Damage caused through negligence or misuse
- Certain damage where required reports are missing
Read: What Damage May Not Be Covered by Rental-Car Insurance?
What if I Damage a Tyre or Wheel?
Tyre and wheel damage is specifically excluded under the current Blanca Cars Terms.
If you:
- Get a puncture
- Hit a kerb
- Damage a wheel
- Experience a blowout
stop safely and contact Blanca Cars.
Do not continue driving on a flat tyre because doing so can damage:
- Wheel
- Suspension
- Bodywork
and potentially increase the cost.
Read: What Should I Do if My Rental Car Gets a Flat Tyre?
What if I Damage the Interior?
Interior damage can remain the renter’s responsibility.
The current Blanca Cars FAQ says customers are liable for damage and severe soiling of the vehicle interior.
Examples can include:
- Torn seats
- Broken trim
- Burns
- Serious stains
- Dashboard damage
- Headlining damage
- Boot damage
The Terms also specifically include interior damage among circumstances where an excess or repair costs can apply.
What if I Damage the Car While Loading Luggage?
Take care around the rear bumper and luggage compartment.
The current Blanca Cars Terms specifically identify damage to the rear bumper or luggage area while loading or unloading suitcases as a circumstance where an applicable excess and/or repair cost can arise.
Heavy luggage should be lifted rather than dragged across painted surfaces.
What if I Put the Wrong Fuel in the Car?
Incorrect fuel is not treated like an ordinary insured collision.
The current Blanca Cars Terms make the renter responsible for costs caused by incorrect refuelling, including recovery and emptying the tank where required.
If you realise you have used the wrong fuel:
Do not start the engine.
If the engine is already running, stop safely as soon as possible.
Then contact Blanca Cars.
Read: What Happens if I Put the Wrong Fuel in a Rental Car?
What if I Lose or Damage the Key?
Replacement keys are excluded from the current Blanca Cars insurance provisions.
The FAQ currently states that a €300 fee applies to loss of a rental-car key.
Contact Blanca Cars immediately if:
- Key is lost
- Key is stolen
- Key breaks
- Electronic key stops working after being damaged
Do not independently order a replacement.
What if I Damage the Underside of the Car?
This is especially relevant when driving to:
- Remote beaches
- Rural villas
- Mountain areas
- Unmade tracks
The Blanca Cars Terms prohibit driving outside the national road network or on unsuitable terrain and specifically exclude damage to the underside or mechanical components resulting from inappropriate use on such roads.
If a road looks unsuitable for a normal car, turn around.
A navigation application recommending the road does not override the rental agreement.
What if I Damage the Car Through Negligence?
Negligence can change the insurance position.
The current Blanca Cars Terms state that an excess applies where damage results from:
- Customer fault
- Negligence
- Misuse
- Failure to follow traffic rules
- Failure to follow rental conditions
Examples might include:
- Driving on a flat tyre
- Ignoring a serious warning light
- Using the wrong fuel
- Driving on unsuitable terrain
- Allowing an unauthorised person to drive
What if I Ignore a Warning Light?
Stop safely and contact Blanca Cars.
A warning light can indicate:
- Overheating
- Low oil pressure
- Brake problem
- Tyre-pressure problem
- Engine fault
Continuing to drive can turn a minor technical problem into major mechanical damage.
If additional damage results from ignoring an obvious warning, it may be considered negligent use under the rental conditions.
What if an Unauthorised Person Damages the Car?
Only authorised drivers should drive a rental vehicle.
The Blanca Cars Terms state that the drivers listed in the rental contract are the people authorised to drive the vehicle.
The FAQ similarly says additional drivers must be listed on the contract and must provide their driving licence before becoming authorised drivers.
A valid driving licence alone does not make someone an authorised rental driver.
Read: Can Someone Else Drive My Rental Car?
What if the Rental Car Is Stolen Rather Than Damaged?
Contact police and Blanca Cars immediately.
The current Blanca Cars Terms state that vehicle theft is covered with €0 excess when the vehicle key is returned, subject to the rental conditions.
You should:
- File a police report.
- Contact Blanca Cars.
- Follow the instructions provided.
- Return the vehicle key in your possession.
Personal belongings inside the vehicle are treated separately and are not insured under the current Blanca Cars Terms.
What if Someone Breaks Into the Car?
Report the break-in.
You may need to provide:
- Police report
- Photographs
- Details of the damage
- Details of stolen items
The current Blanca Cars Terms state that personal belongings left inside the vehicle are not insured. They also provide that the renter can be responsible for certain vehicle repair costs where belongings left inside the vehicle contribute to a break-in.
Do not leave valuable items visible inside the car.
Will Blanca Cars Give Me Another Car?
It depends on why the vehicle needs replacing.
The current FAQ says replacement vehicles are provided in qualifying circumstances such as certain technical defects or collisions for which the customer was not responsible.
However, replacement is not necessarily included following:
- At-fault collision
- Tyre puncture
- Technical problems caused by negligent use
Availability and the individual circumstances matter.
What if the Car Is Still Drivable?
Contact Blanca Cars before deciding what to do.
Some damage may look cosmetic but could affect:
- Lights
- Sensors
- Tyres
- Wheels
- Steering
- Safety systems
- Body panels
Do not decide yourself that the vehicle is safe simply because the engine starts.
Describe the damage and follow the instructions given.
What if the Car Cannot Be Driven?
Move to a safe location if possible without creating additional danger.
Then contact Blanca Cars using the emergency information supplied with your rental.
Blanca Cars currently includes roadside assistance under its standard rental package, with the exact coverage depending on the reason assistance is needed.
Do not independently authorise a tow unless instructed.
Will I Have to Pay an Excess?
It depends on the circumstances.
For Blanca Cars, the current Terms state that an excess can apply where damage results from:
- Customer fault
- Negligence
- Misuse
- Traffic-rule breaches
- Rental-condition breaches
For an at-fault accident, the current Terms state a minimum €300 plus IVA excess depending on the vehicle model.
Other specified incidents can carry a minimum €150–€350 plus IVA, depending on the vehicle and circumstances described in the Terms.
Read: What Is a Car Hire Excess?
Can I Be Charged More Than the Excess?
Potentially, particularly where the damage or cost falls outside the insurance cover.
For example, separately excluded items can include:
- Tyres
- Wheels
- Replacement keys
- Wrong fuel
An excess is therefore not necessarily the maximum amount you could ever owe under every possible circumstance.
Insurance exclusions and contractual responsibilities operate separately.
Does No Deposit Mean I Cannot Be Charged for Damage?
No.
A deposit is financial security.
Damage liability is determined by the rental agreement and insurance.
A rental can therefore have:
Standard deposit: €0
but later have:
Applicable excess or repair cost: Yes
if qualifying damage occurs.
Read: Can You Hire a Car Without a Deposit in Spain?
Can Blanca Cars Charge My Card for Damage?
The current Blanca Cars Terms state that, by signing the rental agreement, the renter authorises Blanca Cars or its partners to charge the provided debit or credit card for agreed or outstanding amounts attributable to the renter, including damage not covered by insurance, with a breakdown of charges communicated.
This does not mean that every mark automatically results in a charge.
Any charge should depend on the applicable rental terms and circumstances.
Should I Inspect the Car Before I Start the Rental?
Yes.
Spain’s European Consumer Centre recommends inspecting a rental car carefully before signing the contract and ensuring any existing damage is documented in writing.
Check:
- Front
- Rear
- Both sides
- Bumpers
- Wheels
- Tyres
- Windscreen
- Mirrors
- Interior
Take photographs if useful.
This protects you from disputes over damage that was already present.
Should I Photograph the Car When I Return It?
Yes.
Spain’s European Consumer Centre recommends taking photographs of both the interior and exterior of the vehicle at return.
Useful photographs include:
- All four sides
- Bumpers
- Wheels
- Interior
- Fuel gauge
- Mileage
Where possible, follow the normal Blanca Cars return or collection procedure.
Example: Another Driver Hits You
You are driving normally through Altea.
Another vehicle enters your lane and collides with your rental car.
You:
- Stop safely.
- Photograph both vehicles.
- Obtain the driver’s details.
- Complete the European Accident Statement.
- Contact Blanca Cars immediately.
- Provide the documentation.
If the evidence establishes that the other driver was responsible, the current Blanca Cars Terms provide full coverage subject to the required documentation and rental conditions.
Example: You Reverse Into a Wall
You are parking at your holiday accommodation.
You reverse into a low wall.
The bumper is damaged.
No one is injured and no other vehicle is involved.
You should:
- Stop.
- Photograph the damage.
- Contact Blanca Cars.
- Explain exactly what happened.
- Follow the instructions provided.
Because the current Terms identify parking and manoeuvring damage as a situation where an excess or repair cost can arise, renter responsibility may apply.
Example: Car Damaged While Parked
You return to the car and discover a damaged door.
You do not know who caused it.
You should:
- Photograph the damage.
- Photograph the location.
- Look for witnesses.
- Check whether any identifying information is available.
- Contact Blanca Cars.
- Follow the instructions regarding police documentation.
Do not wait until the end of the rental to report it.
Example: Small Scratch on the Bumper
You scrape the bumper while parking.
The scratch appears minor.
Do not:
- Ignore it
- Paint over it
- Polish it out
- Wait for Blanca Cars to discover it
Instead:
- Photograph it
- Report it
- Follow Blanca Cars’ instructions
Small damage should still be reported.
Example: Tyre and Wheel Damage
You hit a high kerb and damage both the tyre and alloy wheel.
Under the current Blanca Cars Terms, tyre and wheel damage is specifically excluded from standard insurance.
You should still contact Blanca Cars immediately and follow the roadside-assistance instructions.
Example: Accident Without Documentation
Another driver hits your rental car.
You exchange telephone numbers but do not record:
- Registration
- Insurance
- Accident statement
- Police report
The other driver later denies responsibility.
This can significantly affect the insurance claim.
The Blanca Cars Terms specifically connect missing accident documentation with potential renter liability and excess provisions.
Example: Damage Caused by an Unauthorised Driver
You allow a friend to drive.
Your friend is not listed on the rental agreement.
They damage the vehicle.
Even if your friend has a perfectly valid driving licence, the rental terms only authorise properly named drivers.
This can have serious consequences for insurance coverage and renter liability.
Damage vs Normal Wear and Tear
Not every tiny sign of normal vehicle use is necessarily treated the same way as actual damage.
Rental companies distinguish between vehicle condition and damage according to their inspection and rental procedures.
However, customers should not decide independently whether a mark is:
- Normal wear
- A scratch
- A dent
- Chargeable damage
If something occurs during your rental, report it.
Transparency avoids uncertainty later.
Spanish Consumer Guidance on Rental-Car Damage
Spain’s European Consumer Centre recommends that rental customers:
- Inspect the vehicle before accepting it
- Ensure existing damage is recorded
- Contact the rental company immediately after an accident
- Complete an accident report
- Have third parties complete the relevant sections where applicable
- Return the vehicle in a way that allows inspection where possible
- Photograph the interior and exterior at return
DGT also confirms the importance of completing the European Accident Statement and providing accurate information about the vehicles, damage and circumstances of a collision.
Spanish Rules vs Blanca Cars Policy
Spanish Road and Accident Rules
Spanish law and official procedures govern:
- Road safety
- Emergency response
- Traffic accidents
- Police intervention
- Motor insurance
- Driver responsibilities
Blanca Cars Policy
The rental agreement determines:
- Damage-reporting procedure
- Insurance package
- Excess
- Exclusions
- Authorised drivers
- Repair procedures
- Replacement vehicle conditions
- Card charges for valid contractual costs
Therefore:
What happens financially after rental-car damage depends on both the circumstances of the accident and the rental agreement.
Common Mistakes After Damaging a Rental Car
Not Reporting the Damage
This can affect insurance protection.
Waiting Until Return
Report damage immediately.
Not Taking Photographs
Evidence can be extremely useful.
Leaving Without Another Driver’s Details
Always collect the required information.
Not Completing the Accident Statement
Missing documentation can affect coverage.
Automatically Admitting Liability
Record facts instead.
Signing an Incorrect Accident Statement
Only sign information you believe is accurate.
Arranging Your Own Repair
Contact Blanca Cars first.
Continuing to Drive an Unsafe Vehicle
Stop and request assistance.
Assuming Full Cover Means Everything Is Free
Excesses and exclusions can still apply.
Assuming No Deposit Means No Damage Liability
They are separate issues.
Allowing an Unauthorised Driver to Use the Car
This can seriously affect insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I damage a rental car?
Report the damage immediately, document what happened and follow the rental company’s instructions.
Whether you have to pay depends on the insurance, excess, exclusions and circumstances.
Do I have to pay for every scratch?
Not automatically.
The circumstances and rental conditions determine whether a charge applies, but any new damage should still be reported.
What should I do if I damage a Blanca Cars vehicle?
Contact Blanca Cars immediately and follow the instructions supplied with the rental. The current FAQ says damage caused by either the renter or a third party must be reported immediately.
What happens if I don’t report damage?
The current Blanca Cars FAQ states that failure to report damage can result in 100% liability for the damage.
What if the accident was not my fault?
Collect the other driver’s details and complete the required accident documentation.
The current Blanca Cars Terms state that full coverage applies for a non-fault accident involving another vehicle when the appropriate damage or police report is provided, subject to the rental conditions.
What if the accident was my fault?
The current Blanca Cars Terms state that an at-fault accident can carry a minimum €300 + IVA excess depending on the vehicle model.
What if I hit a wall or bollard?
Report the damage immediately.
The current Terms contain an applicable minimum excess provision for certain collisions with objects and body scratches.
Do I need an accident form?
If another vehicle is involved, proper accident documentation is extremely important. DGT recommends completing the European Accident Statement, and Blanca Cars requires accident documentation under its current conditions.
Do I need to call the police?
Follow the Blanca Cars accident procedure. Police or emergency services are particularly important if anyone is injured, drivers disagree, details cannot be obtained or the situation presents a safety issue.
The current Blanca Cars FAQ instructs customers involved in an accident to contact the appropriate police authorities.
Can I repair the car myself?
Do not arrange repairs without Blanca Cars’ approval.
Contact the company and follow its instructions.
Are tyres and wheels covered?
Not under the current Blanca Cars standard insurance provisions.
Is interior damage covered?
The current FAQ says damage and serious soiling of the interior can remain the renter’s responsibility.
Does full cover mean I never pay for damage?
No.
Excesses, exclusions, negligence and other contractual responsibilities can still apply.
Does no deposit mean damage is free?
No.
A deposit is financial security. Damage responsibility is a separate contractual issue.
Can Blanca Cars charge my debit or credit card for damage?
The current Terms authorise charging the provided card for valid outstanding amounts attributable to the renter, including damage not covered by insurance, with a breakdown of charges communicated.
What emergency number should I use if somebody is injured?
In Spain, call:
112
for emergency services.
The Simple Answer
If you remember only one thing from this guide, remember this:
If a rental car is damaged, do not hide it or repair it yourself. Make the situation safe, document everything and contact the rental company immediately. Proper reporting can be crucial to your insurance protection.
With Blanca Cars:
Damage must be reported: Yes
Report immediately: Yes
Accident documentation important: Yes
Photographs recommended: Yes
Non-fault accident can be covered: Yes, subject to documentation and conditions
At-fault accident can have an excess: Yes
Current minimum at-fault excess: €300 + IVA depending on vehicle
Other specified damage can carry an excess: Yes
Tyres and wheels automatically covered: No
Wrong fuel automatically covered: No
Replacement keys covered: No
Interior damage automatically covered: No
Unauthorised driver can affect cover: Yes
Can you arrange repairs yourself? Not without approval
Failure to report can create full liability: Yes, under the current FAQ
Blanca Cars Damage Policy
The clearest way to describe the current Blanca Cars procedure is:
Any new damage should be reported immediately. If another vehicle is involved, collect the other driver’s details, complete the required accident documentation and provide it to Blanca Cars. The insurance treatment depends on fault, documentation, the type of damage and whether any exclusion or excess applies.
The current Blanca Cars FAQ specifically states that unreported damage can result in full liability.
The current Terms further explain that:
- Non-fault accidents with the necessary documentation receive full coverage under the stated conditions.
- At-fault accidents can carry a minimum €300 + IVA excess depending on the vehicle.
- Certain scratches, collisions with objects and undocumented incidents can carry a minimum €150–€350 + IVA excess depending on the vehicle.
- Tyres, wheels, replacement keys and wrong fuel are among the specified exclusions.
- Negligence, misuse and breaches of the rental conditions can create additional responsibility.
Related Blanca Cars Guides
Continue with:
- What Should I Do if I Have an Accident in Spain?
- How Do I Complete a European Accident Statement?
- What Does Rental-Car Insurance Normally Cover?
- What Damage May Not Be Covered by Rental-Car Insurance?
- What Does Full-Cover Car Hire Mean?
- What Is a Car Hire Excess?
- What Is a Car Rental Deposit?
- What Should I Do if My Rental Car Is Damaged While Parked?
- What Should I Do if My Rental Car Gets a Flat Tyre?
- What Happens if I Put the Wrong Fuel in a Rental Car?
- What Happens if I Lose My Rental-Car Key?
About This Guide
This guide explains what to do if a rental car is damaged in Spain and separately identifies the current accident, damage, insurance and excess procedures published by Blanca Cars.
Damage circumstances vary considerably.
A minor parking scratch, a non-fault road accident, a damaged tyre and wrong fuelling may all involve completely different insurance rules.
The most important steps are always:
- Make the situation safe.
- Document what happened.
- Obtain third-party information where applicable.
- Report the damage immediately.
- Follow the rental company’s instructions.
For Blanca Cars customers, the confirmed rental agreement and current Terms & Conditions should always be treated as the final source for the damage, insurance and excess provisions applying to an individual rental.
Published by: Blanca Cars
Reviewed by: Blanca Cars Operations Team
Last reviewed: 29 August 2026
Review frequency: At least annually and whenever Blanca Cars accident, damage, insurance or excess procedures change.