A Personal Accident Insurance (POV) provides financial security in case of permanent disability or death as a result of an accident, without the question of fault playing a role. This makes it an essential addition to your insurance package in Westland.
What does a POV entail?
The Personal Accident Insurance is a type of fixed-sum insurance that pays out in case of permanent injury or death due to an accident. Unlike liability insurances, it is not necessary to identify a liable party.
POV versus damage insurance
| Criterion | POV (fixed-sum insurance) | Liability claim |
|---|---|---|
| Payout | Fixed percentage of insured amount | Damage based on actual costs |
| Fault issue | Not applicable | Fault must be proven |
| Own responsibility | No influence on payout | Possible reduction of payout |
| Claim process | Often quick and uncomplicated | Prolonged and complex |
What does a POV cover?
A POV includes various coverage options with specific conditions for payouts.
Key coverage types
Permanent disability
In case of permanent disability, you receive a percentage of the insured amount, depending on the degree of disability according to the Gliedertaxe or functional loss:
- Complete disability: 100% of the insured sum
- Loss of an arm: 70-75% of the sum
- Loss of a leg: 60-70% of the sum
- Loss of an eye: 30-35% of the sum
- Partial disability: proportional payout
Death due to accident
If death occurs within a specified period (often 1-3 years) after the accident, the insured sum is paid out to the survivors or beneficiaries.
Additional coverage options
Many insurers offer supplementary coverages, such as:
- Reimbursement for medical treatments
- Daily allowance for hospital stay
- Dental costs due to an accident
- Costs for aesthetic procedures
When can you expect a payout?
The policy conditions define what constitutes an 'accident' and when you are entitled to a payout.
Definition of an accident
An accident is generally regarded as an unexpected, sudden external event that causes medically demonstrable injury.
Possible points of dispute
| Scenario | Often covered | Often excluded |
|---|---|---|
| Traffic incident | ✓ | |
| Sports injury | ✓ (in case of sudden event) | Chronic wear and tear |
| Fall from stairs | ✓ | |
| Heart attack | ✓ (not an accident) | |
| Back complaints (hernia) | ✓ (degenerative cause) |
How is disability determined?
The payout depends on the established percentage of disability.
Medical assessment
An independent physician assesses the degree of permanent disability, usually after a stable medical situation (often after 1-2 years).
Assessment criteria
- Gliedertaxe: fixed percentages per body part
- Functional loss: evaluation of the impact on functions
- AMA guidelines: global standards for disability assessment
POV and personal injury claims in Westland
A payout via a POV is independent of a possible personal injury claim against a liable party.
Combination possible
In Westland, you can receive both a POV payout and compensation from a liable party, without these being offset against each other.
Advice for POV claims
- Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible
- Keep all relevant medical documents
- Submit your claim in time due to limitation periods
- Have the disability percentage verified if uncertain
- Consider a combined claim with liability
Contact and support in Westland
For legal assistance with a POV claim, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Westland. In case of disputes, the District Court of The Hague (district) may play a role.
Frequently asked questions about POV in Westland
When will I receive a payout from my POV?
You will receive a payout in case of permanent disability or death due to an accident, provided it meets the policy conditions. It must involve a sudden, external event, such as a fall or traffic accident. Illnesses or wear and tear are often excluded from coverage. Report the accident immediately and retain medical evidence.
How is my disability percentage determined?
An independent physician determines this, usually after 1-2 years when your situation is stable. Methods such as the Gliedertaxe (fixed percentages per body part) are used, for example 70% in case of loss of an arm.