What is Comprehensive Car Insurance in Germany?
Comprehensive car insurance (Vollkaskoversicherung) in Germany offers extensive protection beyond the mandatory liability insurance (Haftpflicht). It covers damages to your own vehicle, even if the accident was your fault, as well as incidents such as vandalism, theft, fire, and natural disasters.
Key Benefits of Comprehensive Car Insurance
- Coverage for Self-Caused Accidents – Unlike basic insurance, Vollkasko covers damages to your own car in case of an accident, even if you were at fault.
- Protection Against Vandalism – Covers intentional damage caused by third parties.
- Hit-and-Run Protection – If your vehicle is damaged and the responsible party is unknown, your insurance will still compensate you.
- Extended Coverage for New Cars – Some policies offer full compensation for a new car if total loss occurs within a specific period (e.g., 6 months to 2 years).
How Much Does Comprehensive Car Insurance Cost?
The price of Vollkaskoversicherung depends on several factors:
- Driver’s Experience – New drivers (with one year of experience) are classified under SF1/2 in the “Schadenfreiheitsklasse” (no-claims class), meaning they may pay 85%–95% of the standard premium.
- Type of Car – Luxury or high-performance cars generally have higher premiums.
- Location – Insurance rates vary depending on accident statistics and crime rates in your city.
To find the best deal, you can compare offers from different insurers using platforms like Check24.
What Happens in Case of a Total Loss (Totalschaden)?
If your car is declared a total loss (when repair costs exceed the vehicle’s value), your insurance will compensate you based on:
- Market Value Before the Accident – The insurer will pay the estimated price your car was worth just before the damage.
- New Car Replacement (Optional) – Some policies offer a “new-for-old” clause, covering the full purchase price of a new vehicle if the accident happens within a certain timeframe.
How Long Does It Take to Receive an Insurance Payout?
Once you submit a claim with all required documents, insurers in Germany typically process and settle payments:
- Within 15 days for personal claims.
- Up to 45 days for corporate claims or complex cases.
Delays may occur if additional investigation is required.
Legal and Expert Fees in Insurance Claims
If you need legal assistance or an official damage assessment, here are the estimated costs:
- Attorney Fees – Depending on the claim amount, legal fees range from €745 to €1,200 for cases around €10,000. Some insurance policies cover legal expenses under a legal protection plan.
- Expert Appraisal (Gutachter Fees) – Independent assessors charge between €400 and €800, depending on the severity of the damage. Many insurers cover these costs, but it’s advisable to confirm with your provider.
Final Thoughts
Comprehensive car insurance in Germany provides essential financial protection for vehicle owners, offering coverage for various risks that standard liability insurance does not. Whether you are a new driver or have years of experience, choosing the right policy can save you from significant expenses in the event of an accident or total loss.
For the best insurance options, compare offers online and read the fine print to ensure your policy meets your needs.