Fortunately,relatively few traffic accidents happen in the Netherlands. Yet cars incur annual damage every year. Not only on the road, but also while parking orentering a driveway. Always consider whether it is wise to file a damage claim.After all, damage claims always have consequences for your insurance.
When not to claim
Minor damage:
It is not wise to claim a damage if the damage is minor. In this case it is better to bear the costs yourself because a claim will increase your premium and you will pay more. Each year that you do not file a claim entitles you to one claim-free year. Throughclaim-free years the insurer rewards not claiming on the car insurance with a discount on the premium so you pay less for your car insurance.
Note; when you have 15 or moreclaim-free years and you file a claim, you always fall back to 10 claim-free years.
Third-party liability insurance(WA):
If you only have third-party insurance, it does not make sense to file a claim for your car because this insurance only covers damage to the other party.
When to claim
Large damages and injuries:
When your repair costs are very high, it makes sense to file a claim. A large portion of the cost will then be covered by your car insurance company. This is also true if you are involved in a major accident and suffer personal injury. In this case, it will cover the high costs of medical treatment.
Liability other party:
If the other party is at fault for the accident, it is wise to hold their insurer liable for recovery costs and medical expenses.
All-risk insurance:
If you have all-risk insurance you can claim damage to your own car in most cases, it does not matter who caused the damage.
Winter months bring not only chilly weather and festive cheer but also increased risks on the road. Icy roads, snowfall, and poor visibility can significantly raise the likelihood of accidents. If you are involved in a winter accident, one of your first concerns might be: How will this affect my insurance premium?
Winter weather can be unpredictable and challenging for vehicle owners. From icy roads to heavy snowfall and hailstorms, winter conditions can cause significant damage to your car. Whether it's a cracked windshield, dents from hail, or even an accident due to slippery roads, knowing how to file an insurance claim for winter weather damage can save you time and money. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.