Articles
Tips and guidance on claim forms, traffic accidents and insurance
Side 5
Who is at fault in lane changes and sideswipe accidents?
🚗 Sideswipe in a lane change? The main rule is that the one changing lanes must be absolutely sure before merging.
🔍 Small details matter: impact point, road markings, witnesses, and whether both changed lanes simultaneously.
📸 Document wisely at the scene: pictures of position in lane, close-ups of damage, and note witnesses.
✍️ Disagree? Write down the facts and each party's explanation – no arguing at the scene, let the insurance assess.
Who is at fault in lane changes and sideswipe accidents?
Should you write a damage report if there are only minor damages?
🚗 Minor dents can end up being more expensive than you think – sensors and paint make "small" quickly become significant.
📸 Documentation is key: photos, time/place, and correct contact info can stop word against word.
📝 Feel free to fill out a damage report even if you want to settle privately – then you have a safety line.
🛑 Contact the police in case of personal injury, suspicion of intoxication, or if the other party refuses to provide info.
✍️ Digital signing and one shared version with the other party makes the process tidy and quick.
Should you write a damage report if there are only minor damages?
What happens if I don't report to the insurance?
🚗 Not reported damage? It can be more expensive than you think – especially if the documentation becomes weak.
🧾 Late reporting can lead to more disputes and in the worst case, reduced compensation because evidence disappears.
⚖️ The other party can report first: Then "word against word" can tip the case in the wrong direction.
📸 Pictures, sketch, and a joint description from the scene make the settlement much easier.
✍️ Fill it out together and sign digitally, so you have one common damage report ready for the insurance company.
What happens if I don't report to the insurance?
What do I do in case of a traffic accident abroad?
🚗 Accident on vacation? Here’s what to do in the first 10 minutes.
📸 Documentation that actually helps: photos, witnesses, and correct information.
📝 Fill out the accident report together with the other party – before you drive away separately.
📞 Roadside assistance, workshop, and rental car: what should you clarify with insurance first?
What do I do in case of a traffic accident abroad?
Does an accident affect my bonus?
🚗 Bonus loss is primarily about liability – not just that there was damage.
🧾 Good documentation can prevent shared fault and thus save your bonus.
🛡️ Bonus protection can help but always comes with conditions and exceptions.
✍️ Fill out the accident report together and sign digitally to reduce disputes afterward.
Does an accident affect my bonus?
Do I have to pay a deductible if I am not at fault?
🚗 You may have to pay a deductible – even without fault – while liability is clarified.
📝 Good documentation (photos, sketches, and witnesses) makes it easier to get your deductible back.
🤝 Fill out the damage report together with the other party for fewer misunderstandings and faster settlements.
👮 Contact the police in case of personal injury, suspicion of intoxication, or if someone refuses to provide information.