In Germany, the weather is often unpredictable — sunny in the morning, hail in the afternoon, and a thunderstorm by evening. For most of us, our cars are one of the most valuable things we own. But what happens when nature decides to test them?
Whether it’s hail dents, storm damage, flooding, or fallen trees — weather-related car damage is more common than you might think. And when it happens, understanding your car insurance coverage can save you a lot of stress, time, and money.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about weather and car insurance in Germany, explained simply, with real-life examples and practical tips.
Each year, thousands of cars in Germany are damaged by extreme weather. The German Insurance Association (GDV) reports that weather-related claims — especially hail and storm damage — cost insurers over €1 billion annually.
Typical weather risks include:
Example: During Storm Sabine (2020), insurance companies in Germany processed tens of thousands of claims for wind, hail, and fallen trees. Many drivers were surprised to learn their basic insurance didn’t cover all the damage.
In Germany, not all car insurance policies are the same. There are three main types:
This is the mandatory insurance every car must have in Germany. It covers damage you cause to others, not your own car. So, if your car is damaged by a storm or flood, liability insurance won’t help.
This is where weather coverage begins. Teilkasko usually covers: Hail damage, Storm damage (winds stronger than Force 8, around 62 km/h), Flooding, Lightning strikes, Fire, Broken windows from falling branches or objects. So, if a tree falls on your car during a storm, or hail cracks your windshield — Teilkasko pays for repairs.
💡 Tip: Always check your policy for the term “Unwetterschäden” (storm damage). That means weather events are covered.
Vollkasko includes everything from Teilkasko, plus: Damage from accidents you caused yourself, Vandalism. Some policies even cover “act of nature” claims like mudslides or landslides. If you drive a new or expensive car, Vollkasko is usually worth it — especially during Germany’s wild winter months.
Insurance companies don’t pay for every kind of bad weather. They only classify it as “storm damage” if the wind speed is at least Force 8 (62 km/h) — confirmed by the German Weather Service (DWD). So if your garden umbrella flies onto your car during a light breeze, it might not count. But if a strong storm like “Friederike” or “Sabine” caused the damage, you’ll be covered.
You can always attach an official DWD weather report when you file your claim — it helps prove the conditions at the time.
Flooding is one of the most expensive and devastating forms of car damage — and it’s becoming more frequent due to changing climate patterns in Europe. If water enters your car: Do not start the engine — that can cause total engine failure. Call your insurance immediately. Take photos of everything (waterline, interior, license plate). Teilkasko typically covers flood damage, but there’s a catch: If the car was parked in a known flood zone and you ignored warnings, your insurer might refuse to pay due to negligence.
Example: After the 2021 floods in western Germany, many drivers in affected areas received partial payments because insurers ruled the flooding as “avoidable.”
Hailstorms are one of Germany’s biggest weather-related insurance risks — especially in southern regions like Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. Even small hailstones can leave dozens of dents in car roofs, bonnets, and doors. In 2023 alone, German insurers paid over €600 million in hail-related car repairs. If your car is hit by hail: Take detailed photos as soon as possible. Do not repair anything yourself before the inspection. File your claim online or via your insurer’s app. You’ll usually get an appointment at a “Hagelzentrum” (hail repair center). Most Teilkasko policies will cover 100% of the cost, minus your deductible.
Germany is full of beautiful trees — until one of them falls on your car. If a storm knocks a branch or tree onto your vehicle: Teilkasko covers it if the storm was strong enough (wind force ≥ 8). Vollkasko covers it even if it happened without strong winds (for example, a weak tree collapsing). If the tree came from private property (like your neighbor’s yard), you can sometimes claim from their liability insurance — but only if negligence can be proven (e.g., dead tree not maintained).
Example: If you parked near an obviously damaged tree and it fell, insurers might say you shared responsibility.
Here’s what to do after your car suffers weather damage:
💡 Tip: Always ask your insurer about “Partnerwerkstätten” — approved repair shops that handle everything directly with the insurance.
Climate change is increasing extreme weather events across Europe. In Germany, we’re seeing: More sudden hailstorms, Frequent flooding, Stronger winds, Unpredictable temperature swings. That means weather insurance claims will continue to rise.
Some modern insurers are already offering AI-based weather prediction tools that alert you if severe weather is expected near your parked car — helping you move it in time. Companies like Allianz and WeFox are experimenting with this technology. In the future, weather-aware apps may automatically adjust your coverage for the day based on risk — smart, right?
Even with the best insurance, prevention is cheaper than repair. Here are quick steps to keep your car safe:
Simple actions can save thousands of euros — and a lot of frustration.
| Weather Event | Covered By | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Hail | Teilkasko / Vollkasko | Document dents before repair |
| Storm | Teilkasko / Vollkasko | Force 8 wind or stronger |
| Flood | Teilkasko | Don’t drive into standing water |
| Fallen Tree | Teilkasko / Vollkasko | Check for negligence issues |
| Lightning | Teilkasko | File claim for electronics damage |
Weather in Germany can change in minutes — from sunshine to storm. But with the right insurance coverage and a bit of preparation, you don’t have to fear the next thundercloud. Think of your car insurance as your umbrella for your vehicle. It might cost a little, but when the storm hits, it’s worth every cent.
So next time you check your weather forecast on our site, take one more minute to check your insurance, too. Stay safe, stay smart — and may your car always stay dry and dent-free. 🚗💨