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Injured after an accident? You are entitled to pain and suffering compensation

Anyone injured in a no-fault accident is entitled, in addition to compensation for material damage, to pain and suffering compensation, as a balance for pain, suffering and impairments. The amount depends on the individual case.

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Demand pain and suffering compensation

Your chances of getting your money back

For bodily and health damage suffered, you are entitled to appropriate pain and suffering compensation (§ 253 para. 2 BGB). It offsets pain, suffering and lasting impairments and is borne by the other party's liability insurer.
The amount depends on the type and severity of the injury, the duration of treatment and healing, permanent damage and the impairment of life. Pain-and-suffering tables from earlier rulings serve as rough guidance.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Document the injuries

    Collect medical certificates, diagnoses, the course of treatment and sick notes.

  2. 2

    2. Record the consequences

    Note restrictions in everyday life and work and possible permanent damage (with a medical assessment).

  3. 3

    3. Quantify the claim

    Orient yourself to comparable cases (pain-and-suffering tables) and report the claim to the other party's insurer.

  4. 4

    4. Do not settle too early

    With possible late consequences, be cautious with settlement declarations; when in doubt, seek legal advice.

Frequently asked questions

How high is the pain and suffering compensation after an accident?

That depends on the individual case: the type and severity of the injury, the treatment and healing duration, permanent damage and the impairment in everyday life are decisive. So-called pain-and-suffering tables with earlier rulings give rough guidance but do not replace an individual assessment.

Who pays the pain and suffering compensation?

In a no-fault accident, the liability insurer of the person who caused it. Important: document injuries and consequences carefully, and be cautious with blanket settlement or discharge declarations as long as late consequences are possible, otherwise you can lose later claims.

Take action now

We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.

General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.