Best Car Accident Lawyers in Thivais

About Car Accident Law in Thivais, Greece

Car accident cases in Thivais are handled under Greek national law, with local enforcement by the Thivais Traffic Police and courts in the Boeotia region. Greece follows a fault-based system. Every vehicle must carry compulsory third-party liability insurance, and injured parties usually claim compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurer. When injuries occur, the police must be notified and a formal report prepared. For minor collisions with property damage only, drivers often use the European Accident Statement form and may rely on the Friendly Settlement System used by insurers in Greece. Claims can cover medical expenses, lost income, repair or replacement of the vehicle, and non-pecuniary damages such as moral harm.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Many cases seem straightforward but become complex once liability, injuries, or insurance coverage are contested. You may need a lawyer if fault is disputed, injuries are serious or long-term, there is a fatality, an uninsured or hit-and-run vehicle is involved, you are a tourist or foreign driver, there are multiple vehicles or commercial vehicles, the insurer delays or denies the claim, you face contributory negligence arguments, or there is a possible vehicle defect or road maintenance issue. A local lawyer can coordinate evidence, medical experts, and negotiations with insurers, protect you in police proceedings, and file suit within strict legal deadlines.

Local Laws Overview

Compulsory insurance - Every vehicle in Greece must carry third-party liability insurance. Injured victims have a direct claim against the at-fault driver’s insurer. Where the at-fault vehicle is uninsured or unidentified, claims can be brought against the Auxiliary Fund administered by the Motor Insurers Bureau of Greece.

Fault and contributory negligence - Greece applies a fault-based system. If you are partly at fault, compensation can be reduced proportionally under the principle of contributory negligence.

Damages - Recoverable damages may include medical expenses, rehabilitation and care, lost income and reduced earning capacity, repair or replacement of the vehicle and personal property, and compensation for moral harm. In fatal cases, close relatives may claim for moral damages and funeral costs.

Deadlines - Claims against the at-fault driver typically have a longer limitation period under tort law, while claims against the liability insurer have a shorter limitation period that can be as short as two years from the accident date. Limitation rules are technical and exceptions exist, so prompt legal advice is essential.

Police reporting - If anyone is injured, you must call the police and emergency services and remain at the scene. For minor damage-only collisions, you should still exchange details and complete the European Accident Statement. Insurers often require prompt notice of the accident, commonly within a few days as stated in the policy.

Alcohol and traffic rules - The legal limit is generally 0.50 g per liter of blood or 0.25 mg per liter of breath. For novice and professional drivers, the limit is lower. Seat belts are mandatory, as are helmets for motorcyclists. Violations can affect fault and insurance coverage.

Evidence - Police reports, medical records, photographs, repair estimates, and witness statements are key. Dashcam footage may be considered by insurers and courts if obtained lawfully and respecting privacy rules.

Settlement systems - The Friendly Settlement System allows participating insurers to handle and pay certain straightforward property damage claims directly, speeding resolution when both drivers sign the joint accident statement. Serious injury cases normally require a full investigation and often legal representation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Thivais

Check safety, call 112 for emergencies if anyone is hurt, and request police attendance. For medical emergencies you can also call 166 for EKAV ambulance. Do not admit fault at the scene. Exchange details, take photos, note witnesses, and complete the European Accident Statement if appropriate. Seek medical evaluation even if symptoms seem mild. Notify your insurer promptly according to your policy terms.

Do I need to call the police for every accident

If there are injuries, call the police and remain on scene. For minor property damage only, many drivers complete the European Accident Statement and inform their insurers. However, calling the police can help preserve evidence, especially if fault is disputed, the other driver is uninsured, or there is significant damage.

How is fault determined in Greece

Fault is based on the Greek Highway Code, witness accounts, physical evidence, police reports, and expert opinions. Insurers assess liability for settlement purposes. If parties cannot agree, a court decides. Any breach of traffic rules, such as speeding or failing to yield, weighs heavily in determining fault.

Should I sign the European Accident Statement

Sign only if you understand and agree with all entries. The form is important evidence and is used by insurers to process claims quickly. If you are unsure, note your reservations on the form or wait to consult a lawyer. Always keep a copy or clear photos of the completed form.

What are the time limits to bring a claim

Tort claims against the at-fault driver generally have a longer limitation period, while direct claims against the liability insurer can expire much sooner, sometimes in as little as two years from the accident date. Contractual deadlines in your insurance policy for notifying the insurer can be even shorter. Get legal advice quickly to avoid missing any deadline.

Can I recover compensation if I was partly at fault

Yes. Under contributory negligence, compensation is reduced proportionally to your share of fault. Insurers often dispute percentages. A lawyer can challenge unfavorable allocations and present evidence supporting a fair apportionment.

What compensation can I claim

You may claim medical expenses, rehabilitation and therapy, medication and travel for treatment, lost wages and reduced earning capacity, vehicle repair or replacement, personal property loss, and moral damages for pain, suffering, and loss of life enjoyment. In fatal accidents, eligible relatives may claim moral damages and funeral costs.

What if the other driver is uninsured or flees the scene

You can pursue a claim with the Auxiliary Fund for uninsured or unidentified vehicles, subject to specific procedures and proof requirements. Report the accident to the police immediately and obtain the police report. Your own policy may offer additional coverages, such as uninsured motorist or personal accident benefits.

I am a tourist or foreign driver. Does anything change

Your claim will follow Greek law and procedures. If your vehicle is insured abroad, Greek insurers and the Motor Insurers Bureau can coordinate under European and international systems. Keep your Green Card or insurance certificate, driver’s license, and identification. Seek local legal advice to navigate jurisdiction, language, and evidence issues.

How long will my claim take

Straightforward property damage claims under the Friendly Settlement System may resolve within weeks. Injury claims often take several months or longer depending on medical stabilization, evidence gathering, insurer negotiations, and whether litigation is necessary. Complex or disputed cases can take significantly more time.

Additional Resources

Thivais Traffic Police Department - for accident reporting, police reports, and investigations.

Hellenic Police - emergency number 100 for immediate police assistance.

European Emergency Number 112 - unified number for police, ambulance, and fire services.

EKAV National Emergency Medical Service - ambulance dispatch via 166 and post-accident medical coordination.

Motor Insurers Bureau of Greece and Auxiliary Fund - coordination for cross-border claims and compensation when vehicles are uninsured or unidentified.

Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport - traffic regulations, vehicle standards, and driver licensing information.

Private Insurance Supervision at the Bank of Greece - oversight of insurance companies and consumer information on insurance practices.

Consumer Ombudsman of Greece - assistance with disputes between consumers and companies, including insurance claim handling.

General Hospital of Thivais - emergency and follow-up care after road accidents.

Local Bar Association in Boeotia - referrals to lawyers experienced in motor accident and insurance law.

Next Steps

Prioritize medical care and follow all treatment recommendations. Gather and organize documents, including the police report number, European Accident Statement, photos, witness details, medical records and receipts, and repair estimates. Notify your insurer within the time limits stated in your policy. Avoid written or recorded statements to insurers before you understand your rights, and do not sign releases or settlement agreements prematurely.

Consult a lawyer who handles car accident cases in Thivais and the Boeotia region. Ask about experience with injury valuation, insurer negotiations, and court practice. Discuss fees and expenses in writing. Your lawyer can calculate losses, preserve evidence, communicate with insurers, and file claims before deadlines expire. If necessary, they can initiate court proceedings and arrange expert evaluations to support your case.

This guide provides general information only and is not legal advice. Laws and procedures change and may apply differently to your situation. For specific guidance on a car accident in Thivais, consult a qualified Greek lawyer without delay.