The WAM insurance (Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance Act) is a compulsory insurance for all motor vehicles in Westland and beyond. Victims of a traffic accident can file a claim directly with this insurance.
What does the WAM insurance entail?
According to the WAM Act, owners of motor vehicles must have insurance that covers damage to third parties:
- Damage to persons (injury)
- Damage to property (material damage)
- All damage caused by the use of the vehicle
Mandatory minimum coverage
| Type of damage | Minimum coverage |
|---|---|
| Personal injury | € 6,070,000 per incident |
| Property damage | € 1,300,000 per incident |
Direct claim as a victim
As a victim, you can file a damage claim directly with the WAM insurer of the counterparty:
- It is not necessary to first approach the driver
- This principle is called 'direct action'
- The insurer handles your request directly
For which vehicles does the WAM apply?
The WAM insurance is mandatory for, among others:
- Passenger cars
- Motorcycles
- Mopeds and scooters
- Speed pedelecs
- Agricultural vehicles on public roads
What if there is no WAM insurance?
In the case of an uninsured vehicle, you can:
- Claim damage via the Motor Traffic Guarantee Fund
- Hold the owner personally liable
- Know that driving uninsured is punishable
Can I as a passenger file a claim with the car's insurance?
Yes, as a passenger you have the right to file a claim with the WAM insurer of the vehicle you were in, regardless of whether the driver is an acquaintance or family member.What if the insurance does not cover enough?
If the insured amount is insufficient, you can try to recover the remaining amount from the liable driver. However, this can be legally complex.Is the WAM also valid outside the Netherlands?
Yes, the WAM provides coverage in all countries listed on the green card. Note: the minimum coverage may vary per country.Questions about WAM insurance in Westland
Is WAM insurance needed if my vehicle is only on private property?
Yes, as soon as your vehicle goes on the public road, even for a short trip, WAM insurance is mandatory. If the vehicle is permanently on enclosed property, it is not needed. Contact your insurer for specific situations.
How do I claim damage from a WAM insurer?
Contact the insurer of the liable party directly. Gather evidence such as photos, witness statements and a completed damage form. Indicate what damage you have and follow the insurer's instructions. In case of problems, you can seek legal assistance via the Juridisch Loket Westland.
What if the counterparty is uninsured?
In the case of an uninsured vehicle, you can appeal to the Motor Traffic Guarantee Fund. You must prove that the other party is liable. In addition, the owner can be prosecuted criminally.
Does the WAM also cover damage to my own vehicle?
No, the WAM only covers damage you cause to others. For own damage, you need additional comprehensive insurance, which is not mandatory but can be advisable.
Can I terminate my WAM insurance when not in use?
Only if you officially suspend or deregister the vehicle with the RDW, can you cancel the insurance. In case of temporary standstill, you can sometimes agree on a lower premium with your insurer. Ask about the options.
What is the difference between WAM and WA?
Both terms refer to the same compulsory liability insurance for motor vehicles. WAM stands for the Act, WA for Statutory Liability.
For legal questions about WAM insurance in Westland, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Westland or the District Court of The Hague (district).