#CarInsurance: noves normes de la UE per protegir millor les víctimes d'accidents de carretera

On 13 February, MEPs will vote on a proposal to millorar la directiva actual d'assegurances de vehicles in order to better protect road accident victims.  The new rules will guarantee fair compensations for victims, discourage the use of uninsured cars and ensure equal treatment of policyholders from different EU countries.

MEPs are also working on better road safety rules to reduce the number of victims in road accidents.

Higher level of protection of victims

Currently victims of road accidents may not receive compensation or experience payment delays when the insurer of the responsible vehicle is insolvent . Under the new rules, responsibility for compensation in such cases would default to member states. MEPs also propose that compensation is granted within a maximum period of six months.

People across the EU would benefit from the same minimum level of protection. For personal injuries, victims will be entitled to an insurance coverage of at least €6,070,000 per accident, irrespective of the number of victims, or €1,220,000 per victim. For damage to property, the minimum amount of coverage will be €1,220,000 per claim, irrespective of the number of victims. Member states will be allowed to set higher amounts.

More affordable insurance premiums

anunci

The new rules will urge insurance companies to allow a claim history i to be transferable, allowing a consumer who moves to another EU country to continue to enjoy benefits, on the same basis as domestic policyholders. That should mean EU citizens have access to more advantageous premiums and potential discounts, irrespective of their nationality or previous member state of residence.

Clamping down on uninsured vehicles

Uninsured driving is a growing problem within the EU, which costs millions of euros and increases premiums for paying consumers. Parliament’s proposal would allow EU countries to conduct systematic cross-border insurance checks through unobtrusive technologies, such as number plate recognition, and to impose penalties.

Which vehicles will be included in the new directive?

The rules would cover most vehicles. E-bikes, segways and electric scooters would be excluded as they are smaller and cause less damage to people and property. In addition, the application of motor insurance rules might discourage their use. Motorsports are also omitted, as in general they are covered by other forms of liability.

Propers passos

After the new rules have been approved by the Parliament, MEPs will have to negotiate with the Council before they can enter into force.

Once the new rules are implemented, the European Commission will have to evaluate their application with regards to cotxes d'auto-conducció.