Drivers in Germany must obtain Kfz-Haftpflichtversicherung coverage on their motor vehicles to protect others if any damages they cause result from driving them. This type of policy protects other people or property against damages that result from your actions, such as damaged caused to other people and their properties by you.
Germany offers various kinds of car insurance policies, such as third-party, partial, and comprehensive policies.
Motor vehicle third-party liability insurance
If traveling to Germany, it is strongly advisable that you purchase third-party liability insurance for your vehicle. Not only is it required by law, but this insurance also protects from financial risks should an accident happen.
Based on your vehicle and type of coverage desired, Germany offers numerous insurance options that may best meet your needs. Some can be more cost effective than others – to help make sure you choose wisely, use an online car insurance comparison tool!
Insurance costs depend heavily on factors like a driver’s age and no-claims bonus, as well as vehicle type and model. A beginning driver often pays more than experienced ones; newer cars tend to incur greater insurance costs; and drivers living in urban areas often incur a surcharge than those located elsewhere.
Comprehensive insurance
Comprehensive car insurance provides protection in the event of an accident, as well as providing extra coverage against vandalism and damage from wild animals.
Germany provides various comprehensive insurance policies that meet different needs; you should select one which best meets yours. Policy costs depend on factors like Typklasse (car type class), the severity and frequency of damage or accidents sustained to it and your driving experience.
Consider also your deductible amount when selecting an insurance policy. A higher deductible could help to lower premium costs in case of an accident, saving money in premium costs and keeping more savings for yourself!
Germany requires drivers to carry third-party liability insurance on their vehicles. The minimum level of cover known as teilkasko only covers damages to other people’s cars in an accident situation.
Green Card
The Green Card issued by your car insurance provider shows proof that you have adequate motor vehicle third-party liability cover when driving abroad. It’s an internationally recognised document that can save a great deal of time if and when it comes time to claim on your policy while traveling abroad.
Green Cards can also come in handy during collisions or accidents, showing law enforcement officials that you have adequate insurance for both your car and other vehicles on the road. Simply contact your insurer and request one – usually free.
Your insurer can issue you a Green Card either online or in person, depending on their policy. Please bring along all relevant insurance documents, such as an insurance certificate and copies of drivers license or passport for verification purposes.
Establishing residency can be a lengthy and complex process, so it is wise to start as soon as possible. Simply complete an application form and arrange an appointment at your local immigration office.
No-claims bonus
One of the primary factors in calculating insurance costs is your No-Claim Bonus (Schadensfreiheitsclass/Schadensfreiheitsrabatt SFR). This incentive rewards drivers who remain accident free.
There is an insurance discount system in Europe which gives long-standing policyholders an incentive for being claim free, typically transferred from insurers abroad onto your German policy.
Example: A British driver who goes three years without making any claims will receive a 30% discount off their premiums. This works out to 10% per year – but can be cumulatively earned over multiple years!
Your vehicle class can also have an effect on your insurance costs. According to statistics, certain models are more prone to theft or being involved in traffic accidents, which is why some insurers offer additional cover for them.