A traffic accident may raise separate questions about compensation, insurance and alleged traffic offences. Under section 7 StVG, vehicle-holder liability can arise for harm caused in the operation of a motor vehicle. Whether a claim exists depends on the facts and the applicable requirements and exceptions.
Record the accident and its consequences
Keep photographs, the accident report, contact details of witnesses and correspondence with insurers. Repair estimates, invoices and medical documents may help establish the effects of the incident. Distinguish observed facts from assumptions about fault.
Separate different proceedings
A compensation claim and administrative-offence or criminal proceedings follow different rules. Identify each letter, authority and stated deadline separately. The applicable legal basis may include the Road Traffic Act and the Civil Code; no outcome follows from the accident description alone.
Legal sources and further information
Sources in German.