The WAM insurance, or Wet Aansprakelijkheidsverzekering Motorrijtuigen, is a compulsory insurance for all motor vehicles in the Netherlands, including Zoetermeer. Victims of a traffic accident can file a claim directly with this insurance.
What does the WAM entail?
The WAM imposes on owners of motor vehicles the obligation to be insured for damage they cause to others:
- 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 claim directly with the WAM insurer of the at-fault party:
- You do not need to first approach the driver yourself
- This process is called 'direct action'
- The insurer handles your damage claim
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?
If a vehicle is uninsured, you can:
- Claim damage from the Motor Vehicle Guarantee Fund
- Hold the owner personally liable
- Know that driving without insurance is a criminal offence
Can I as a passenger file a claim with the car's insurance?
Yes, as a passenger you can file a claim with the WAM insurer of the vehicle you were in, even if the driver is a family member or acquaintance.What if the insurance coverage is insufficient?
If the maximum amount is not enough, you can try to recover the remaining amount from the liable driver. However, this is often a complex process.Is the WAM also valid outside the Netherlands?
Yes, the WAM provides coverage in countries listed on the green card. Note: the minimum coverage may vary per country.Frequently asked questions about WAM in Zoetermeer
Is WAM insurance needed if my car is only on private property?
Yes, as soon as your vehicle goes on the public road, even occasionally, WAM insurance is mandatory. If your car is permanently on enclosed private property in Zoetermeer, insurance is not required. Consult your insurer to rule out risks.
How do I claim damage from a WAM insurer after an accident?
Contact the other party's insurer immediately. Gather evidence such as photos, witness statements and complete a damage form. Specify what damage you have (bodily or material) and follow the insurer's instructions. In case of problems, you can seek help from the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.
What to do if the at-fault party has no WAM insurance?
For an uninsured vehicle, you can appeal to the Motor Vehicle Guarantee Fund for compensation. You must prove that the other party is liable. In addition, the owner can be prosecuted criminally via the Rechtbank Den Haag.
Does WAM also cover damage to my own vehicle?
No, WAM insurance only covers damage you cause to others. For own damage, you need additional comprehensive insurance, which can be useful especially in a busy city like Zoetermeer.
Can I terminate my WAM insurance if I am not using my car?
Only if you officially deregister or suspend your vehicle with the RDW can you cancel the insurance. For temporary non-use, you can arrange an adjusted scheme with your insurer in Zoetermeer, such as a lower premium.
What is the difference between WAM and WA?
Both terms refer to the same compulsory liability insurance for motor vehicles. WAM stands for the law, while WA (Wettelijke Aansprakelijkheid) refers to the insurance itself.