Passenger Injury Insurance (SVI): Protection for Drivers and Passengers

A passenger damage insurance (SVI) compensates the actual damage suffered by both the driver and passengers after a traffic accident — even if no one else is liable or if the accident was (partly) caused by the driver's own fault. The SVI thus supplements the mandatory third-party liability coverage, which only compensates damage to third parties.

Why choose passenger damage insurance?

Although an SVI is not mandatory, this insurance offers important benefits for anyone who regularly hits the road:

1. Extensive protection for all occupants

In the event of an accident, passengers are usually well protected by car insurance. The situation is different for the driver: you cannot hold yourself liable for damage you cause to yourself.
With passenger damage insurance, you are insured for your own personal injury and material damage — regardless of who caused the accident.

Many people purchase a SVImainly to protect their passengers. But it is the driver who has the most interest in this additional coverage. If you as a driver cause an accident, the passengers can usually recover damages through car insurance. You, on the other hand, are left with your own costs, because you cannot hold yourself liable. TheSVItherefore ensures that not only your passengers, but also you as a driver are fully covered in the event of personal injury and material damage.

2. Compensation for actual damage suffered

The SVI does not pay out a fixed amount, but reimburses the actual damage up to the insured maximum. Consider:

• Medical costs, deductible and rehabilitation

• Loss of income and missed pension accrual

• Domestic help or alternative informal care

• Additional transport and travel costs

• Study delay or training damage

• Penalties (often included in the coverage)

• Statutory interest on the damage

💡 Read also: Smartengeld in case of personal injury

3. Security for your loved ones

Do you regularly transport family, friends or colleagues? With an SVI you know that everyone in your car is properly insured, regardless of who caused the accident.

What is often reimbursed under an SVI?

In addition to the above-mentioned damage items, the following costs are usually also covered:

• Personal damage: medical costs, loss of income or permanent disability

• Death costs: such as funeral costs

• Damage to personal property: luggage, clothing or other valuables

• Injury to pets: veterinary costs for injuries to accompanying pets

• Costs for damage assessment: for example legal and medical advice costs (usually up to €25,000 per event)

⚖️ Please note: coverage varies per insurer. Always check the insured amount (usually up to €1,000,000 per event) and any exclusions, such as driving under the influence or deliberate risky behavior.

Common misconceptions about coverage

1. “My car insurance already covers everything.”
   Not quite: third party liability insurance only covers damage that you cause to others. Your own injury or material damage is not included.

2. “Passenger accident insurance (OIV) is the same as SVI.”
   No. The OIV pays out a fixed amount, regardless of the actual damage. The SVI actually compensates for the actual damage — often much more favorable in the case of serious injuries.

3. “The SVI only applies in the Netherlands.”
   The coverage usually applies in all countries listed on the green card. Always check this in the policy conditions.

Examples: when is an SVI crucial?

• One-sided accident: you leave the road, without an opponent. Only an SVI reimburses your own personal injury. See also who pays for damages in the event of a one-vehicle accident.

• Own debt or shared debt: the SVI prevents you from being stuck with costs.

• Employer's situation: When commuting or using a company car, the SVI limits the risk of high employer liability in the event of accidents.

How is the premium determined?

The premium for passenger damage insurance depends on:

• the type of vehicle (passenger car, van, etc.);

• the number of occupants;

• the chosen coverage (maximum amount);

• and whether the SVI is taken out as a separate module or as part of a car insurance policy.

On average, an SVI costs only a few euros per month — a small investment for broad protection.

How do you conclude an SVI?

You can easily take out or add passenger damage insurance through your current car insurer. When closing, please note:

• the maximum amount per event;

• which damage items are explicitly insured;

• exclusions (such as alcohol use or intent);

• and the countries in which the insurance is valid.

Do you want to know whether your SVI offers sufficient coverage or legal advice in the event of damage?
At Arslan Lawyers we check your policy free of charge and assess whether your insurer is settling the damage correctly.

Conclusion

Passenger damage insurance is not an unnecessary luxury, but an important addition to your standard car insurance. You prevent yourself — as a driver or passenger — from being left with significant costs after an accident.

Do you have personal injury after a traffic accident and are you unsure whether your SVI offers coverage?
Contact ArslanLawyers. We will assess your case free of charge and recover the damage from the insurer or liable party.