Winter in Germany can be stunning, but it can also be harsh on vehicles. Heavy snowfall, icy roads, freezing temperatures, and falling snow from rooftops often lead to car damage. This raises a very common and important question among residents, expats, and tourists:
Does car insurance cover snow damage in Germany?
The answer is yes, but only in certain situations and only if you have the right type of insurance. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about snow damage, German car insurance types, what is covered, what is not, and how to make sure your claim is approved.
Why Snow Damage Is Common in Germany
Germany experiences significant snowfall between November and March, especially in regions like Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, Saxony, and the Alpine areas. Snow-related car damage usually happens due to:
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Skidding on icy or snow-covered roads
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Accidents caused by poor visibility
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Frozen windshields, mirrors, or doors
Because of these risks, understanding winter car insurance coverage in Germany is essential.
Types of Car Insurance in Germany
Before we talk about snow damage specifically, it’s important to understand the three main types of car insurance in Germany.
1. Kfz-Haftpflicht (Liability Insurance – Mandatory)
This is the minimum legal requirement for all vehicles in Germany.
What it covers:
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Damage you cause to other vehicles
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Injury or property damage to other people
What it does NOT cover:
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Any damage to your own car
If you slide on snow and hit another vehicle, Haftpflicht insurance will pay for the other car but not for yours.
2. Teilkasko (Partial Comprehensive Insurance)
Teilkasko is optional but very common in Germany. This is where some snow damage coverage starts.
Typically covered under Teilkasko:
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Snow or ice falling on a parked car
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Damage caused by natural events (similar to storm or hail damage)
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External forces beyond your control
For example, if snow falls from a roof and dents your car, Teilkasko usually covers the repair.
3. Vollkasko (Full Comprehensive Insurance)
Vollkasko provides the highest level of protection, especially in winter.
What Vollkasko covers:
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Everything included in Teilkasko
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Self-caused accidents
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Accidents caused by skidding on snow or ice
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Damage even if no other vehicle is involved
If you lose control on an icy road and hit a barrier, only Vollkasko will cover your car.
Does Car Insurance Cover Snow Damage in Germany?
Situations Where Snow Damage IS Covered
Snow or Ice Falling on a Parked Car
If snow or ice falls from:
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A building roof
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A tree
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Another structure
and damages your parked vehicle, this is generally considered external natural damage.
Covered by:
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Teilkasko
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Vollkasko
Natural Hazard–Related Snow Damage
Heavy snowfall may be classified under natural hazards depending on your insurer.
This can include:
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Structural damage from snow weight
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Weather-related falling debris
Covered by:
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Teilkasko (policy-dependent)
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Vollkasko
Always check your policy wording under Naturgewalten.
Skidding or Sliding Accidents on Snowy Roads
If you skid on ice or snow and:
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Hit a pole
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Crash into a wall
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Damage your car without involving another vehicle
Covered by:
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Vollkasko only
Teilkasko does not cover self-caused driving accidents.
When Snow Damage Is NOT Covered
Negligence During Winter Driving
German insurers take negligence very seriously.
Claims may be reduced or rejected if:
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You were driving without winter tires
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Snow was not cleared from windows or roof
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You ignored weather warnings
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You parked in a clearly unsafe location
Germany has a situational winter tire law. If roads are icy, snowy, or slushy, winter tires are mandatory.
Engine Damage Caused by Snow
If engine damage occurs because:
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You drove through deep snow
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Snow entered the engine compartment
This type of damage is often not covered, even with Vollkasko, unless explicitly stated in your policy.
Normal Wear and Tear
Insurance does not cover:
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Frozen door seals
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Dead batteries due to cold
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Worn wipers or minor winter wear
These are considered maintenance issues.
Accidents Involving Other Vehicles in Snow
You Cause an Accident Due to Snow
If you slide on snow and hit another car:
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Haftpflicht pays for the other party’s damage
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Your car is covered only if you have Vollkasko
Another Driver Hits You on Snowy Roads
If another driver crashes into your car:
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Their Haftpflicht insurance covers your damage
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Snowy conditions do not change liability rules
Common Questions People Ask (Especially on Reddit)
Does German car insurance cover snow damage?
Yes, with Teilkasko or Vollkasko, depending on the situation.
I slipped on ice and hit a pole. Am I covered?
Only if you have Vollkasko.
Snow fell from a roof and damaged my car. Is it covered?
Yes, usually under Teilkasko.
Can insurance reject winter claims?
Yes, if negligence is proven.
How to Make Sure Your Snow Damage Claim Is Approved
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Take clear photos immediately
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Capture weather conditions
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Inform your insurer within 24–48 hours
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Do not repair the vehicle before inspection
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File a police report if required
Car Insurance for Expats in Germany During Winter
Expats often face claim issues because:
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They are unaware of winter tire laws
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They choose only Haftpflicht insurance
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They misunderstand German policy terms
For expats, Vollkasko is strongly recommended, especially during the first few winters.
Is Vollkasko Worth It for German Winters?
Vollkasko is worth it if:
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Your car is new or expensive
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You live in heavy snowfall regions
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You are not experienced with winter driving
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You want maximum financial protection
Final Answer: Does Car Insurance Cover Snow Damage in Germany?
Yes, snow damage can be covered — but only with the right insurance.
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Haftpflicht → No coverage for your own car
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Teilkasko → Covers certain snow-related damages
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Vollkasko → Best protection for all winter scenarios
Choosing the right policy before winter can save you thousands of euros and a lot of stress.
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