Myths about third party liability insurance and accident compensation

Third party liability insurance is mandatory for all motorists in Bulgaria. It covers the driver's liability for damages caused to other persons when traffic accident (traffic accident). However, there are a number of myths surrounding it that often confuse victims and deter them from seeking the compensation they deserve. In this article, we look at the most common misconceptions and what the law actually says.

Myth 1: Compensation is only paid to the driver if he is not at fault

This is false. Third party liability insurance is activated when the driver is at fault and covers damages caused to third parties – including passengers, pedestrians, drivers of other vehicles. Even if you are not the driver, but for example a passenger, you are entitled to monetary compensation for damages suffered – regardless of who is at fault.

Myth 2: If the at-fault driver does not have insurance, there is no way to get compensation

Not true. In case the person at fault for the accident did not have valid motor third party liability insurance or is unknown (for example, he fled the scene of the accident), the responsibility for paying compensation may be assumed directly by the driver. If the driver is unknown, the responsibility may be assumed by The Guarantee Fund. This is an institution created specifically for the purpose of compensating victims in such situations.

More on the topic: The liability of the Guarantee Fund in case of road accidents

Myth 3: There is no right to compensation for minor bodily injury

False. The amount of compensation depends on the type and severity of the injury, but even minor bodily injury – for example, a bruise, sprain, minor fractures – can be grounds for a claim. The important thing is that the injury is medically documented and has a direct connection to the accident that occurred.

Myth 4: Insurance only covers material damage

Third party liability insurance covers both property damage (car repairs, medical expenses), as well as non-pecuniary damage – pain, suffering, mental trauma, loss of ability to work. Victims may also claim moral damages, especially in the case of more serious injuries or the loss of a loved one.

Myth 5: There is no need to collect medical documentation – the insurer has everything

This is a serious misconception. The insurer pays compensation based on submitted documents – medical records, epicrisis, prescriptions, invoices for treatment. Without them, your claim may be rejected or you may receive an understated compensation. Therefore, it is important to keep all evidence related to the accident and its consequences.

Myth 6: Once the insurer offers an amount, it is final.

Many victims accept the first offer from the insurer without knowing that they can dispute. These amounts are often underestimated. If you disagree with the assessment, you can request an independent expert opinion or file a lawsuit. With the right legal strategy, there is a real opportunity to get higher compensation.

Myth 7: I have a limited time to file a claim – only a few months

The deadline for filing a claim with the "Civil Liability" insurer is 5 years from the date of the accident. This means that even if you do not react immediately after the accident, you have enough time to consult a lawyer, collect documentation and file a claim. Exceptions are made only in special cases, for example, if it involves a crime.

Myth 8: I don't need a lawyer – the insurer will compensate me fairly

In practice, insurance companies often offer the minimum possible compensation. The role of the lawyer is to defend you, calculate the real amount of damages, collect the necessary evidence and, if necessary, file a lawsuit. This increases the chances of fair compensation many times over.

More on the topic: Motorists' civil liability – 4 important topics

There are many myths surrounding third party liability insurance and accident compensation, and they often harm the very people who need help the most. It is important to be well informed, know your rights, and not hesitate to seek legal protection. If you have been in a traffic accident, contact the team at Delikti.bg for consultation.