Damage and insurance
You hope you never have to use insurance, but an accident can happen. We ourselves have had to deal with damage such as hail in Northern Italy, problems with the Adblue system or a broken wing mirror. Then you hope to be well insured with just as good roadside assistance.
What does your insurance cover?
- Third party liability insurance: Only damage that you cause to others.
- Limited Casco: Plus coverage against theft, fire, storm, glass damage, etc.
- Fully Comprehensive (All Risk): Also damage to your own camper caused by your own fault.
Specific points of interest.
- Contents: Often not included as standard! Check separately or take out additional coverage.
- Accessories (awning, solar panels, etc.): Sometimes these must be specified separately with the insurance company.
- Breakdown assistance: Is it included? If not, consider separate breakdown assistance insurance.
- Value of your camper: Sometimes the compensation is based on current value, new value, or appraisal value. This makes a difference in case of damage or total loss.
- Replacement transportation or accommodation: Coverage may vary, useful to know if you are on the road
Deductible and bonus-malus
- Deductible: Check how much you have to pay yourself in the event of damage.
- Bonus-malus scheme: Damage can reduce your no-claims discount → premium often increases.
Do you have damage?
- Safety First: Keep yourself and others safe.
- Note everything: Take clear photos of the damage, the situation, the vehicles involved and any traces.
- Fill out a claim form: Especially when others are involved. Make sure both parties sign.
- Collecting witnesses: Recording names and contact information can be very helpful later.
Reporting damage
- Report the damage as soon as possible: Often required within 24 to 48 hours.
- Call your insurer or intermediary: Some also have a handy app.
- Provide full information: Date, location, cause, other party, photos and damage report.
Damage abroad
- Green card at hand: This contains emergency numbers and what is insured where.
- European Accident Report Form: International standard form, useful and often mandatory.
- Language problems? Make sure you have a translator like Google translate on your phone. Always make your own notes next to the form.
