Iceland, a land of fire and ice, offers an adventure like no other. While you’re soaking in the majestic landscapes, it’s essential to know about the Icelandic Police—your partners in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Under the Ministry of Justice, the National Police Commissioner oversees the entire Icelandic Police Force, ensuring law enforcement and safety across this stunning country.
The Icelandic Police, known as “Lögreglan,” play a crucial role in maintaining peace and safety across the country. They are approachable, professional, and dedicated to helping both residents and tourists alike.
When and How to Contact the Iceland Police
In Case of an Emergency, call 112
For any urgent situation requiring immediate attention—be it an accident, a health crisis, or if you feel threatened—the number to remember is 112. This emergency number connects you directly to the national police and other emergency services, guaranteeing fast and professional assistance.
If you need Iceland police assistance, call 112
Photo by BBWM11 via Wikipedia/CC BY-SA 4.0
Car Accidents and Rental Concerns
As a traveller driving a rental from Hertz Iceland, it’s crucial to know the proper steps if involved in a car accident. If there are injuries or if the liability in the accident is unclear, it’s mandatory to call 112. The Icelandic police officers will arrive to manage the situation, facilitating any needed criminal investigation and ensuring that everyone’s safety is prioritized.
- Injuries Occur: If anyone is injured in an accident, call 112 immediately. Quick response from emergency services is crucial.
- Unclear Liability: In accidents where it’s difficult to determine fault, or the parties involved cannot agree, contacting the police will help resolve the situation. They conduct a criminal investigation if needed, document the scene, and provide a report for insurance purposes.
- Significant Damage or Obstruction: If the accident causes significant damage to the vehicles or obstructs traffic, police intervention is necessary to manage the scene and ensure safety.
Non-Emergency Situations
For non-emergency situations, the Icelandic Police offer several avenues for assistance:
- Local Police Stations: For less urgent matters, such as reporting lost items or minor incidents, contacting your nearest police station is advisable. Details and locations can be found on the Icelandic Police’s official website.
- Online Services: The official website https://www.logreglan.is/english/ also provides resources for various non-emergency services, including filing reports or seeking advice on legal matters.
If you are renting your car in Iceland with Hertz Iceland, we also offer non-emergency help with our breakdown service, let us know if you need help.
Availability of Police Assistance
- Operating Hours: While emergency services are available 24/7 through the 112 number, non-emergency services at police stations might have specific operating hours. It’s best to check the official website for the most accurate information.
- Language Assistance: The Icelandic Police provide assistance in multiple languages, ensuring that non-Icelandic speakers receive the help they need. When calling 112, operators can connect you with someone who speaks your language to facilitate clear communication.
Engaging with Icelandic Police
- Stay Calm: In any interaction with the police, staying calm and cooperative facilitates a smoother process for all involved.
- Have Documentation Ready: Especially in case of accidents, having your identification, rental car documents, and any relevant insurance information at hand is helpful.
- Use Non-Emergency Services Wisely: Reserve the 112 number for true emergencies. For all other inquiries or reports, utilize the non-emergency contacts provided by the police.
Understanding the Role of Icelandic Police
Community-Centric Approach
Iceland’s police force is renowned for its community-focused approach, emphasizing prevention and engagement over force. By fostering strong community relations, the Icelandic Police work towards resolving issues amicably, reinforcing Iceland’s status as one of the safest countries globally.
Do Icelandic Police Carry Guns?
A common question among tourists is whether Icelandic Police officers carry guns. The answer is, not usually. In Iceland, police officers do not regularly carry firearms. Instead, they are trained in conflict resolution and de-escalation techniques.
Specialized units are equipped with firearms and are called upon when necessary, but the general presence of police officers in Iceland is friendly and non-threatening.
Safety Tips for Travelers
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with local laws and customs.
- Emergency Number: Remember, 112 is the number to dial in case of any emergency.
- Respect Nature: Iceland’s nature is beautiful but can be dangerous. Always follow safety guidelines, especially when driving or hiking.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses and unexpected events. When renting a car, opt for MAX Rental car insurance to reduce your liability to 0.
Hertz Iceland: Here to Help
At Hertz Iceland, we prioritize your safety and comfort. Our fleet of rental cars is maintained to the highest standards, ensuring a safe and reliable journey across Iceland. Should you encounter any issues, including accidents involving your rental car, we are here to assist you.
Remember, in case of an accident in Iceland, call 112 immediately if there are injuries or if liability is unclear. For less urgent support, our Hertz Iceland team is always ready to help, ensuring you can focus on enjoying the breathtaking Icelandic landscapes.
In Conclusion: Your Safety, Our Priority
The Icelandic Police force plays a vital role in making Iceland a safe and welcoming destination for all. By understanding when and how to contact them, you can enjoy a stress-free adventure in this beautiful country.
Remember, whether you’re driving through the Iceland fjords, exploring the highlands, or witnessing the northern lights, safety comes first. And with Hertz Iceland, you have a trusted partner on your journey, ensuring you have the support you need, whenever you need it.
