The Insurance Process for Traffic Accidents in Germany: A Step-by-Step Roadmap

Dealing with a traffic accident in Germany can feel overwhelming, especially if you are unfamiliar with the insurance system. Whether you live in Germany or are simply driving through, understanding the correct steps can save you time, money, and stress. This guide provides a clear, user-friendly, and fully structured roadmap—from the first moments after an accident to the final insurance settlement.

1. Initial Steps After a Traffic Accident

Right after an accident, safety and documentation come first. Germany has a strict protocol, and following it helps both legally and for insurance claims.

1.1 Ensure Safety and Secure the Scene

• Turn on hazard lights.
• Place a warning triangle 50–100 meters behind your vehicle (on highways even further).
• Wear a reflective vest.

1.2 Check for Injuries and Call Emergency Services if Needed

• Emergency number: 112
• Police number (non-emergency): 110

If anyone is injured or if there is major property damage, the police must be involved.

1.3 Exchange Information

Even in minor accidents, exchanging details is necessary for insurance processing.

• Full name and address
• Vehicle registration number
• Insurance company and policy number
• Driver’s license details (optional but helpful)

2. Documenting the Accident for Insurance

The more evidence you collect, the smoother your insurance claim will be. German insurers highly value accuracy and clarity.

2.1 Take Photos and Videos

• Damage to all vehicles involved
• The overall accident scene
• Skid marks or broken parts on the road
• Traffic signs or signals in the area

2.2 Use the European Accident Report (Europäischer Unfallbericht)

This standardized form is accepted by all insurers in the EU. It includes fields for diagrams, statements, and personal details.

• Both parties should fill it out.
• Both parties must sign it.
• Signing does not admit guilt—it only confirms information accuracy.

2.3 Involving Witnesses

Witness statements can strongly support your claim. Collect their names, phone numbers, and short summaries of what they observed.

3. Reporting the Accident to Your Insurance Company

German law requires reporting an accident to your insurer as soon as possible—ideally on the same day or within 24 hours.

3.1 Types of Car Insurance in Germany

Understanding which insurance covers what helps set realistic expectations.

3.2 How to Report the Accident

• Online claims form on your insurer’s website
• Insurance hotline
• Mobile app (if provided)
• Email with full documentation

Be prepared to provide:

• Date, time, and location of the accident
• Descriptions of how the accident happened
• Photos, videos, and the accident report

4. The Insurance Investigation and Assessment

After reporting the accident, the insurer begins an assessment process to determine liability and repair costs.

4.1 Appointment of a Claim Adjuster (Gutachter)

In many cases, especially if damages are significant, you or the insurer may hire a certified expert to evaluate the vehicle.

• If you are not at fault, you may choose your own adjuster.
• If fault is unclear, insurers may appoint a neutral expert.
• Small damages may not require a full report—just a cost estimate from a workshop.

4.2 Determining Liability

German insurance evaluates fault based on:

• Police reports
• Accident diagrams
• Witness statements
• Traffic laws and responsibility rules

Liability percentages can vary—sometimes both drivers share responsibility (e.g., 70/30 or 50/50).

5. Repair and Compensation Options

Once liability is determined, the insurer will inform you about your compensation options.

5.1 If You Are Not at Fault

• The at-fault driver’s insurance covers repairs.
• You may choose any repair shop.
• You may receive a rental car or monetary compensation.
• You can claim “Nutzungsausfall”—payment for lost vehicle usage.

5.2 If You Are Fully or Partially at Fault

• Vollkasko covers damages to your own car.
• Haftpflicht covers damages you caused to others.
• You may lose your no-claims bonus (Schadenfreiheitsklasse).

5.3 Total Loss (wirtschaftlicher Totalschaden)

If repair costs exceed the car’s value, insurers may declare a total loss. In that case:

• You receive the car’s pre-accident market value.
• Subtract the salvage value if you keep the damaged car.

6. Receiving Your Final Settlement

After all documentation and assessments are complete, the insurer issues payment. This may take from a few days to several weeks, depending on complexity.

• Simple cases: Typically 1–2 weeks
• Cases with disputes: Several weeks or months

A clear and thoroughly documented claim helps avoid delays.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I always have to call the police?

No, but you must call if there are injuries, major damages, or disputes about fault.

2. Can I repair my car before the insurance decision?

It is not recommended. Wait until the insurer approves the cost estimate or the expert’s report.

3. What happens if the other driver refuses to share details?

Call the police immediately. Their report will replace the missing information.

4. Do rental car costs get reimbursed?

Yes, if you were not at fault. Otherwise, coverage depends on your insurance type.

5. How long do I have to report an accident?

Ideally within 24 hours. Delayed reporting can negatively affect your claim.

Conclusion

The insurance process for traffic accidents in Germany is systematic, structured, and evidence-driven. By following a clear step-by-step roadmap—securing the scene, gathering documentation, reporting promptly, and understanding your insurance coverage—you significantly increase your chances of a smooth and fair outcome. Whether you are at fault or not, staying organized and informed ensures you navigate the process with confidence.