Car or traffic accidents in Germany are handled through a structured legal and insurance system. Here’s a clear breakdown of what you need to know:
🚗 Car or Traffic Accidents in Germany – Complete Guide
📌 1. What To Do Immediately After an Accident
- Stop immediately – It’s illegal to drive away.
- Secure the scene – Turn on hazard lights, put out a warning triangle.
- Call the police (110) if:
- Someone is injured.
- There’s major damage.
- The other driver refuses to share info.
- Exchange Information:
- Name, address, license number.
- Vehicle registration & insurance details.
- Take Photos – Document the scene, vehicle positions, damage, road signs, etc.
- Get Witness Statements if possible.
🛡️ 2. Insurance System in Germany
- Germany uses a mandatory liability insurance system (Kfz-Haftpflichtversicherung).
- Every vehicle must be insured.
- The at-fault party’s insurance pays for damage to others.
Types of Insurance:
| Insurance Type | Covers |
|---|---|
| Haftpflicht (Liability) | Required by law. Covers damage to other persons, cars, or property. |
| Teilkasko (Partial Coverage) | Fire, theft, glass, storm, animal strikes. |
| Vollkasko (Comprehensive) | Includes Teilkasko + damage to your own car (even if you’re at fault). |
⚖️ 3. Claiming Damages
You can claim:
- Vehicle damage (repair or market value if total loss)
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering (Schmerzensgeld)
- Loss of income (Verdienstausfall)
- Rental car costs or mobility damages
Who Pays?
- The at-fault driver’s insurer covers the above.
- If fault is shared, compensation is reduced accordingly.
👨⚖️ 4. Legal Help: Accident Lawyer (Unfallanwalt)
You should hire a lawyer if:
- The fault is disputed.
- There are injuries.
- Insurance is denying payment.
- You don’t speak fluent German.
The at-fault party’s insurance often pays your lawyer’s fees, especially if you’re the innocent party.
🕒 5. Deadlines & Reporting
- Report accident to your insurance within 7 days (some require 24 hours).
- File personal injury claims usually within 3 years.
📌 Extra Tips:
- ADAC membership provides help at accident scenes + legal advice.
- Use Gutachter (independent vehicle assessor) for damage evaluation if your car is badly damaged.