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Traffic accident abroad: settling the damage correctly

An accident abroad is particularly demanding, because foreign law, other insurers and language barriers are added. For EU cases, however, there are simplifications with which you can often enforce your claims from Germany as well.

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Your chances of getting your money back

For accidents in EU foreign countries you can often turn to a claims representative of the opposing insurer in Germany. The central call of the car insurers helps to determine the correct insurer.
The Green Card and the system of claims representatives make the handling easier. Depending on the case, however, the amount of the compensation is governed by the law of the place of the accident.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Document the accident

    Fill out the European Accident Statement and secure photos, witnesses and data.

  2. 2

    2. Determine the insurer

    Use the central call of the car insurers to find the opposing insurer.

  3. 3

    3. Report the damage

    Turn to the claims representative in Germany.

  4. 4

    4. Observe the law

    Note that the claim is often governed by the law of the accident country.

How to spot the scam

  • Important evidence at the accident site is not secured.
  • The particularities of the foreign law are overlooked.
  • Deadlines for asserting claims pass.

Frequently asked questions

How do I settle an accident abroad?

For EU cases you can often turn to the claims representative of the opposing insurer in Germany. The central call of the car insurers helps to determine the responsible insurer. This way much can be handled from Germany.

Which law applies to my damage?

Often the amount of the compensation is governed by the law of the country in which the accident happened. That can lead to different results than in Germany, for example with damages for pain and suffering or loss of use. A classification of the individual case is important.

What is the Green Card?

The Green Card (International Insurance Card) proves the motor-vehicle insurance cover abroad and makes the damage handling easier. Carry it on trips abroad; it helps to quickly identify the insurer in the event of a claim.

Take action now

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

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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.