Commentary on Judgment No. 15431 of 2024: The Presumption of the Friendly Accident Report

The recent ruling No. 15431 of June 3, 2024, issued by the Court of Cassation, focuses on a crucial topic in the context of civil liability arising from road accidents: the evidentiary value of the friendly accident report. This ruling provides important clarifications on how the signing of the report form by both parties involved can serve as a presumption in favor of the insured, thereby establishing a burden of proof on the insurer.

The Context of the Ruling

In the case examined, the Court of Rome had already addressed the issue, but the Court of Cassation wanted to further clarify the matter. The ruling's maxim states that:

Friendly accident report - Signing by both drivers - Presumptive value - Overcoming - Burden of proof to the contrary - On the insurer - Existing. In terms of civil liability from road accidents, the signing of the friendly accident report form by both drivers of the vehicles involved in the accident creates a presumption iuris tantum valid against the insurer, who bears the burden of providing contrary evidence that the facts occurred in a manner and with consequences different and incompatible from those indicated in that report by the parties.

Meaning of the Presumption iuris tantum

The presumption iuris tantum, as established in the ruling, implies that once the friendly accident report form is signed, the insurer cannot simply contest the assertions made in the document without providing concrete evidence to prove otherwise. This principle is based on the following aspects:

  • The signing by both drivers lends credibility to the information contained in the form.
  • The insurer has the burden of proving that the accident occurred differently from what was stated.
  • The rule is based on principles of good faith and fairness among the parties involved.

Practical Implications of the Ruling

This ruling has important practical implications for drivers and insurance companies. In particular, it emphasizes the need for insurers to be prepared to provide detailed and documented evidence in case of contestation of the information contained in the friendly accident report. Furthermore, drivers must be aware of the importance of correctly filling out the form, as this document will carry significant weight in case of a dispute.

Conclusions

In conclusion, judgment No. 15431 of 2024 represents an important step in clarifying the legal value of the friendly accident report and the burden of proof on the insurer. This principle not only protects the rights of the insured but also promotes greater responsibility and clarity in the dynamics of compensation for damages arising from road accidents.

Bianucci Law Firm