Car Insurance in the Netherlands
To protect potential victims, the Wet Aansprakelijkheidsverzekering Motorrijtuigen (WAM) was enacted in 1963. Since then, third-party liability car insurance (WA) has been mandatory in the Netherlands. However, there are additional types of car insurance (autoverzekering) you can get.
Car Insurance Providers in the Netherlands Here are some Dutch car insurance providers you can choose from:
- Centraal Beheer
- Univé
- European Insurance (Car insurance comparison in English)
Types of Car Insurance in the Netherlands There are three main types of car insurance available:
- WA-verzekering (Third-Party Liability Insurance) Every car owner in the Netherlands must have at least third-party liability insurance. This insurance covers damage to third parties only and is the least comprehensive and cheapest option.
- WA+ / Beperkt Casco (Limited Comprehensive Coverage) WA+ insurance, also known as Beperkt Casco, offers more than just third-party coverage. It also covers certain damages to your own car, including window damage, theft, break-in damage, and damage caused by storms or fire.
- Allrisk / Volledig Casco (Full Comprehensive Coverage) If you have a new car, it is generally advised to take out allrisk insurance, also called volledig casco. This is the most comprehensive car insurance, covering both third-party liability and damage to your own car, including self-inflicted damage.
Car Insurance in the Netherlands: What’s Included Here is an overview of what is included in the three main types of car insurance in the Netherlands:
- WA-verzekering: Covers damage to third parties only.
- WA+ / Beperkt Casco: Covers third-party damage, window damage, theft, break-in damage, and damage from storms or fire.
- Allrisk / Volledig Casco: Covers third-party damage and all damages to your own car, including self-inflicted damage.
Besides the three main types of car insurance, there are additional types you may want to consider when driving in the Netherlands:
Passenger Insurance (Inzittendenverzekering) This insurance covers injuries or death of passengers in your car due to an accident, as well as damages to personal belongings. While passengers are usually covered by the mandatory WA insurance of the driver or the party at fault, and medical expenses are covered by health insurance, passenger insurance offers faster claims handling and payment. It doesn’t consider who is at fault for the damages.
Legal Assistance Insurance (Rechtsbijstandverzekering Auto) In case of an accident, you might need legal assistance, especially if there’s a dispute about who caused the accident. Legal assistance can be taken out separately, but it’s often cheaper when included with your car insurance. Coverage is linked to the insured vehicle, regardless of the driver.
Road Assistance (Pechhulp) To avoid being stranded with a flat tire or other issues, road assistance is a good idea. It can be arranged through your car dealer, as additional cover to your car or travel insurance, or as a separate service.
No Claim Protection (No Claim Beschermer) If you don’t submit any claims, you can get a significant discount on your premium. With no claim protection, you can submit one claim per year without affecting your premium.
Special Dutch Car Insurance
There are also special types of car insurance:
Oldtimer / Youngtimer Insurance (Classic Car Insurance) If you own a classic car, it needs to be insured. Classic car insurance is cheaper than regular car insurance. Whether your car qualifies as a classic depends on its age, brand, and use. Your classic car must be appraised every three years by a recognized appraiser.
Caravanverzekering (RV Insurance) If you cause damage with your RV, it is often covered by your car insurance (WA) or private liability insurance (AVP). However, caravan insurance covers damage to the caravan itself, which is advisable if you own an expensive vehicle.
How to Choose Car Insurance in the Netherlands
When choosing car insurance in the Netherlands, consider the following:
Compare and Review Compare car insurance quotes to find the best fit for your needs. Read reviews to check for any complaints about the insurer.
Premiums Your premium depends on factors such as the type of cover, your age, place of residence, car type, annual mileage, and driving style. Generally, more accidents lead to higher premiums.
