New driving licence holders in Germany have to pass a two-year probationary period, during which special rules apply. In the event of a road accident during the probationary period, nerves are accordingly frayed. In our guide, we explain what consequences you can expect as a novice driver after an accident during the probationary period and why a hit-and-run is a very bad idea.
- If you are not at fault for the traffic accident, you do not have to expect any further consequences.
- If you are partly at fault or have caused the accident, this can be very expensive for you as a novice driver.
- If you commit an offence, you could lose your driving licence.
- We at faire-Regulierung will help you reliably and 100% free of charge with any questions you may have about your claims settlement.
The crucial question: Who is to blame?
In order to be able to answer what consequences a road traffic accident during the probationary period will have for you, the question of fault must first be clarified. There are three possibilities here:
- You are not to blame for the accident.
- You are partly to blame.
- You caused the road accident.
If you are not at fault for the traffic accident as a novice driver, you do not have to fear any probationary period measures. However, if you are partially at fault or caused the accident, for example by disregarding the right of way, you must expect consequences.
NoteUnder no circumstances should you commit a hit-and-run as a novice driver! If you hit and run, you could lose your driving licence and face a hefty fine or even a prison sentence. It is therefore always better to speak to the other party involved in the accident, exchange contact details and, if necessary, report the accident to the police. You can find out more about hit and run here.
What are the consequences of an accident during the probationary period?
The consequences of an accident during the probationary period for your driving licence depend very much on the type of offence and whether people were injured.
An accident during the probationary period only has consequences for the novice driver if they are at least partially at fault for the accident. The offences are divided into more serious offences (also known as A offences) and less serious offences (B offences).
If you commit an offence as a novice driver, such as speeding, and cause an accident as a result, the consequences are governed by the catalogue of fines. This contains a specific fine for each offence and also defines penalties such as points in Flensburg or driving bans. In principle, the penalties depend on the cause of the accident and the severity of the damage.
Accident during the probationary period due to an A offence
These include, for example, disregarding the no overtaking rule or a right of way offence. These are the serious offences. A offences result in an extension of the probationary period by two years, as well as attendance at an advanced seminar for novice drivers. If there is a further A offence during the probationary period extension, there is a warning and the recommendation of a traffic psychology consultation. If there is a further A offence, the driving licence may be revoked.
NoteIf the person concerned refuses to attend an advanced training seminar, their driving licence may also be revoked.
Accident during the probationary period due to a B offence
B offences include, for example, driving with worn tyres or overstaying the main inspection, which are then less serious than the A group. You do not have to expect any effects on the probationary period.
NoteIf you commit another B offence, you must expect the same consequences as for an A offence.
Consequences under criminal law
If the accident results in injuries, you may be charged with negligent bodily harm or even negligent homicide during the probationary period. These offences are also A offences. However, the consequences for your probationary period are not as serious compared to the criminal consequences. According to Section 229 of the German Criminal Code (StGB), you can expect a prison sentence of up to three years or a fine for a negligent bodily injury offence. In the case of involuntary manslaughter, even up to five years. This also applies to experienced drivers.
Important! If you commit a criminal offence in road traffic, such as negligent bodily injury, a hit-and-run or failure to render assistance, you must expect your driving licence to be revoked.
What does a fender bender mean for insurance cover?
In principle, the no-claims class is upgraded in the event of an accident during the probationary period, meaning that the vehicle owner will have to pay higher premiums in future. This upgrade is independent of whether a serious or minor offence led to the accident.
The right steps for fair claims settlement
Are you a new driver and got into an accident during your probationary period through no fault of your own? Then it's best to report it quickly to faire-Regulierung.de. The safe procedure at a glance:
- You report the accident to us risk-free and free of charge by telephone on 0800 30 111 60 or even faster online.
- Our competent team will examine your case immediately and explain how to proceed.
- The claims settlement is initiated and you no longer have to bother with tedious paperwork.
The licensed specialists from the faire-Regulierung network handle the tasks involved and take care of your claims for damages, competently, reliably and safely for you.
