The atestado is the official document that records what happened; it is the primary piece of evidence for insurance claims or legal proceedings. In Málaga, the process varies depending on which force attended the scene (Local Police or Guardia Civil).

Here is your roadmap to obtaining it:

 

1. If it occurred within the city limits (Málaga Local Police)

If the accident took place on city streets, the process is handled through the Town Hall (Ayuntamiento).

  • Online (Recommended):
    • Access the Málaga Town Hall Electronic Office (Sede Electrónica).
    • Search for the procedure: "Solicitud de Información de Siniestro Vial" (Request for Road Traffic Accident Information).
    • You will need a digital certificate or Cl@ve (electronic ID).
    • Cost: Recently, fees are no longer applied to Traffic Reports from the Local Police.
  • In Person:
    • You must go to the GIAA (Grupo de Investigación de Accidentes y Atestados).
    • Address: Calle Actriz Rosario Pino, 18 (Distrito Centro).
    • Advice: Call 092 beforehand to confirm if the report is finished, as it usually takes approximately 20 days following the accident.
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2. If it was on a dual carriageway or motorway (Guardia Civil)

If the accident occurred on the A-7, MA-20, A-45 or secondary roads, the police report (atestado) falls under the jurisdiction of the Traffic Division of the Guardia Civil.

  • Online:
    • Via the Guardia Civil Electronic Office, in the "Traffic" (Tráfico) section.
    • Cost: It is free of charge.
  • In Person:
    • You must go to the Málaga Traffic Detachment (Andalusia Sector).
    • Location: Málaga Guardia Civil Headquarters (Av. de Arroyo de los Ángeles).

 

3. What details do you need to request it?

Regardless of the police force involved, you will be asked for:

  1. Exact date and time of the accident.
  2. Location (street and number, or the kilometre point of the road).
  3. Number plates (registration numbers) of the vehicles involved.
  4. Case reference number (if the officers gave you a card or reference at the time of the accident).

 

4. Special Cases

  • If there is a court case: If the accident was serious and legal proceedings are underway, the report is sent directly to the Duty Court of Málaga (Juzgado de Guardia). In this instance, it must be requested through the specific court to which the criminal proceedings have been assigned.
  • Proof of involvement: If you only need a quick document for work or insurance to confirm you were present (without the technical details of the full report), you can request a "Justificante para Implicado" (Proof of Involvement) on the Town Hall website. These are usually issued immediately, provided the Málaga Local Police were the competent authority at the scene.