Which motor vehicles are subject to compulsory insurance?
A motor vehicle is subject to an insurance obligation, but not in all cases. For example, a toy car with mechanical propulsion also falls under the definition of a motor vehicle. This is not subject to an insurance obligation. What about the electric bicycle? Are you also obliged to take out an insurance for it?
Anyone who has a car, motorbike or motor-assisted bicycle in their name is also obliged to insure the vehicle against third-party liability (WA). When causing damage with a motor vehicle, the injured party has a direct right of action against the insurer of the vehicle. The purpose of the legal obligation is to protect victims of damage caused by motor vehicles.
Compulsory motor insurance
All vehicles propelled by mechanical and/or electrical power fall under the definition motor vehicle. In summary, the following motor vehicles require third-party insurance:
- Car, truck and similar vehicles.
- Motorcycle, moped, three-wheeled motor scooter, moped, bicycle with auxiliary motor and scooter
- Other licensed vehicles registered in your name.
Insuring a registered number plate
It is often thought, wrongly, that cars that are not on public roads are not subject to compulsory insurance. You must also insure a number plate that is registered in your name. Is the car temporarily not in use? Then you have the option of suspending the licence plate. The RDW is responsible for checking whether the obligation to insure exists. They do this by comparing registers. Registration plates that are registered to you appear in the vehicle register. The same licence plates must also be registered by insurers. If this is not the case, it is assumed that the insurance obligation has not been met.
Is it compulsory to insure an electric bicycle?
There is a distinction to be made between the standard electric bike with pedal assistance and the fast electric bike. There is no insurance obligation if the pedal assistance stops at 25 kilometres per hour. The electric motor has a maximum power of 250 Watts. The fast electric bike can reach a speed of 45 kilometres per hour. The electric motor also has a larger capacity. For these electric bicycles there is an insurance obligation. These bikes must also have a license plate. From 2017, it will also be compulsory to wear a helmet.
Insurance is not compulsory for standard pedelecs with pedal assistance. In the event of damage, private liability insurance (AVP) can be taken out. This insurance is often taken out in combination with home and contents insurance. Bicycle insurance is not compulsory, but it is recommended.
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