Haftpflicht

Haftpflicht, in the insurance context often called Haftpflichtversicherung, is a liability insurance that covers damages for which the insured is legally responsible to third parties due to negligence or accidental wrongdoing. The contract transfers the financial risk of third‑party claims to an insurer, helping to cover compensation and defense costs in civil proceedings.

There are several common forms. Privathaftpflichtversicherung covers private individuals and household members for accidental injury to people or damage to others’ property. Berufshaftpflichtversicherung insures professionals against claims arising from their professional activities. Betriebshaftpflichtversicherung protects businesses from third‑party claims resulting from operations. In many countries, motor vehicle liability insurance (Kfz-Haftpflichtversicherung) is mandatory for vehicle owners; other Haftpflicht types are typically voluntary.

What is covered generally includes bodily injury, property damage, and financial losses caused by the insured to others, as well as defense costs and settlements up to policy limits. Policies typically exclude intentional acts, damages to the insured’s own property, and certain professional or regulatory risks; many policies also apply deductibles and sub-limits for specific risk categories. Some insurers offer worldwide coverage or extensions for household members and travel.

Premiums depend on risk factors such as occupation, income, number of insured individuals, and desired coverage limits. Many people obtain Haftpflicht as a standard risk‑management measure, with annual renewal and optional endorsements for higher limits or specialized risks.

In German‑speaking countries Haftpflicht is a widely used form of consumer protection and risk management. While not always legally required, it is considered essential for residents and businesses to guard against potentially substantial third‑party claims.