2023 Author: Eric Donovan | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 15:44
The driver should take care of minor damage to the car himself. In the insurance, the no-claims class is downgraded, which can be more expensive in the longer term.
Even if a car is insured against damage, it can be worthwhile not to use the services of the insurance company. Because after each payment, the contribution for the customer increases. Every reported damage leads to a downgrade in the so-called damage-free class (SF) regardless of the repair costs. The driver then has to pay higher premiums, often several hundred euros and that for several years at the same time - the amount of the additional costs can quickly exceed the repair costs. The rule of thumb is a damage amount of 500 to 1000 euros, for which it is worth paying for the repair out of your own pocket.
Paid discount protection helps
In principle, you should briefly consult with the insurance company to clarify what makes more financial sense. Small damage can often be "bought back" by the insurance company within six or twelve months - this way the discount class classification can still be saved afterwards. With liability insurance, such rules are almost standard today, with fully comprehensive insurance they are at least widespread.
In addition, many insurance companies offer discount protection, which is subject to a feeat. In the event of damage, you keep your previous no-claims class. In some cases even the upcoming Besser grading is not prevented. If you change your insurance, however, the rescue expires retrospectively, so that you are classified in the lower class. In addition, the discount protection can usually only be taken out from SF4, i.e. after four years of accident-free driving.
For drivers who have been driving for decades without a reported accident, some insurance companies offer so-called discount savers. In the event of damage, the SF class is then changed, but the contribution does not increase. In most cases, however, the limit is 25 accident-free years. (SP-X)
