Private liability insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung) in Germany

In Germany the law is significantly different than in other countries as there is no limit on the damage has to be compensated if the person is announced to be responsible for an accident. That’s the reason that almost every German person has private liability insurance.Have you ever considered any of the following could happen to you? Or have happened already?

• Bumped into someone
• Crossed the road on a red light
• Your child accidentally damages someone else’s property
• Cycled on the pavement

By law you could be legally forced to pay a fix amount to cover any damage you caused accidently. (This could be an exceptionally high amount if you caused personal injury)Good thing is that the fees for this insurance is relatively cheap.

Real life examples showing you that you need to be careful in Germany

Please see some cases collected from Toytown (a forum for English speaking expats in Germany) about situations when persons were accused responsible and liable for thousands of Euros.Case 1: A hotel guest is being forced to pay damage caused on the hotel door.Case 2: A woman is responsible for hitting a car with her bike.Case 3: Regardless being hit by a tram and breaking her ankle a lady was accused of being negligent. She needs to pay for resulting damages. (tram and persons on board)Case 4: A child’s parents whose kid accidentally broke a guitar at school are being forced to pay the cost of replacement.

German Private liability insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung) is not expensive

It’s important that your policy covers key extras as private liability insurance could significantly vary.Complacency damage (Gefälligkeitshandlungen) is one of the key elements that is most of the time not included in the policies.This option provides you with coverage in the case of your friend accidently drops one of your expensive belongings whilst helping you move into your new apartment for instance.

Comparing German liability insurance policies

It is always important to compare the coverage of different policies. However, we can strongly recommend the liability insurance products from MIRASCON. They offer a range of flexible policies and a wealth of experience which you really can rely on. It's is also fast and easy to get a personal offer suitable for your needs. Interested individuals are encouraged to get in touch with them to learn more about their liability insurance options.