Reporting · assessor · repair
The claims process for car damage
The process is fixed. Where you have influence is at the start: what you record and how quickly you report it.
Deze pagina in het Nederlands: Het schadeproces bij autoschade.
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Step one: recording the facts
Complete the European Accident Statement together and both sign it. You are signing for the factual circumstances, not for fault.
Make photos of both vehicles, the position on the road, the traffic signs and the road surface, and take the details of any witnesses.
Step two: reporting
Report it to your insurer or to us, even if you think the other party is at fault. Article 7:941 DCC requires you to report as soon as reasonably possible.
Reporting late can prejudice the insurer's position on recovery and affect your payout.
Step three: assessment
For larger claims, a loss adjuster who establishes the extent of the damage. If you disagree, you are entitled to a an independent loss adjuster acting for you; those costs are usually reimbursed.
If there is doubt about how the accident happened, further investigation may follow; that lengthens the process.
Step four: repair and settlement
Repairs often go through an approved accident repair centre, which may reduce the excess. You are usually free to choose your own, but different conditions may then apply.
With total loss is paid on the basis of replacement value as new, purchase value or market value, depending on the age of the car and your policy.
Frequently asked questions
The questions we are asked most often about this.
What do I do immediately after a collision?
Fill in the accident statement form, take photographs, note down witnesses and do not accept liability.
How quickly must I report a claim?
As soon as reasonably possible, under Article 7:941 of the Dutch Civil Code.
What if I disagree with the loss adjuster?
You are entitled to an independent loss adjuster acting for you; those costs are usually paid.
May I choose my own repairer?
Usually yes, but through an approved repairer the excess is often lower.
What do I get if the car is a total loss?
Replacement value as new, purchase value or market value, depending on the age of the car and the policy.
Do I lose no-claims years?
Yes for an at-fault claim; for a small claim, paying yourself can be cheaper.
What is covered and what is not
What is covered
| Situation | Third-party liability | Comprehensive |
|---|---|---|
| Your car is written off by someone else who admits liability | Yes | Yes |
| The other party refuses to sign the accident statement form and there are no witnesses | Provided that | Yes |
| The cost of an independent assessor you engage because you disagree with the assessment | Provided that | Yes |
| A hire car for the two weeks your car is in the workshop | Provided that | Provided that |
| You only report the damage after three months, when the other party can no longer be traced | No | No |
| The diminution in value because your car now has an accident history | No | No |
Who caused the damage determines whether the payment runs through your own policy or through the other party's.