Cancelling Accident Insurance: Deadlines, Rights and Smart Alternatives for 2025
19 May 2025
6
Minutes
Katrin Straub
CEO at nextsure
Are you considering cancelling your accident insurance? Many policyholders are uncertain about deadlines and procedures. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to cancel your accident insurance properly or exceptionally and what you need to consider.
The topic in brief and concise terms
The regular notice period for accident insurance is usually <strong>three months</strong> at the end of the contract; an extraordinary termination is possible, for example, in the case of premium increases without performance enhancements.
A termination must be done in writing; keep proof of dispatch (e.g. registered mail with return receipt).
Before cancelling, consider alternatives such as changing your tariff or suspending contributions to avoid gaps in coverage.
Understanding the Basics of Cancelling Accident Insurance
Terminating an accident insurance policy is a formal process with specific rules. Typically, the regular notice period is three months before the end of the insurance year. If you miss this deadline, your contract automatically extends for another year. Therefore, it is crucial to know the exact main due date of your policy; often this is the first of January. A termination should always be in writing, ideally by registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt, to have proof. Before you compare and cancel your accident insurance, carefully check your contract documents. These contain all relevant information on terms and deadlines. Knowing these details is the first step to a successful termination.
Ordinary termination: The standard way out of the contract
A formal termination of your accident insurance does not require a specific reason. You can simply cancel it if the contract no longer suits your life circumstances or you have found a better offer. The notice period is generally three months before the end of the insurance year. For contracts with a term of, for example, one year that began on the first of October, the termination must be received by the insurer by the thirtieth of June of the following year at the latest. For contracts with a duration of more than three years, termination is often first possible at the end of the third contract year, thereafter annually. It is important to submit the cancellation actively and in writing. An automatic termination usually only occurs in the event of the death of the sole insured person. Carefully consider whether accident insurance is necessary before taking this step.
Special termination rights: When you can terminate extraordinarily
Under certain circumstances, you can also cancel your accident insurance outside the regular deadlines. This special right of termination applies, for example, if there is an increase in premiums by the insurer without any improvement in the services of the accident insurance. In this case, you usually have one month after receiving the notification to cancel the contract without notice. Another reason for extraordinary termination can be the settlement of a claim. If you are dissatisfied with the settlement or the insurer rejects the claim, you can cancel within one month after the process is completed. A reduction in benefits without a corresponding adjustment in premiums can also justify a special right of termination. It is important to specify the reason for extraordinary termination in your letter.
The following situations often allow for extraordinary termination:
Increase in premiums without simultaneous improvement in benefits (Notice period: one month after notification).
After the settlement of a regulated claim (Notice period: one month after the decision on the benefit).
Reduction in insurance coverage by the insurer without premium adjustment.
Disappearance of the insured risk (e.g., giving up a dangerous hobby, if this was the basis for a special tariff).
Always check your individual contractual terms (AVB), as the exact regulations are recorded there. Knowing your special right of termination can help you respond flexibly to changes.
Termination by the insurer: That is also possible
Not only you as the policyholder, but the insurer can also terminate the accident insurance contract. A common reason for this is unpaid premiums. If the policyholder fails to make a payment despite a reminder within the set deadline, the insurer can terminate the contract without notice. Another reason for termination by the insurer may arise after the settlement of a claim. If the insurer has provided a service, they can terminate the contract with a notice period of usually one month. Incorrect information at the time of concluding the contract or fraudulent misrepresentation can also lead to the contract being contested or terminated. It is therefore important to always provide accurate information and pay premiums on time. The exact conditions for this can also be found in your General Insurance Terms and Conditions.
Practical Tips: How to Write Your Resignation Correctly
A cancellation of your accident insurance should always be made in writing. A simple letter suffices, but it should include certain information to avoid misunderstandings. Always state your full name, address, and insurance number. Clearly specify in the subject line that it concerns the "Cancellation of Accident Insurance." A sentence like "I hereby cancel my accident insurance with contract number [] at the earliest possible date" is sufficient. For extraordinary cancellations, you should explicitly state the reason for cancellation (e.g., "due to the premium increase on []"). Request written confirmation of the cancellation, including the termination date. Sending by registered mail with return receipt provides you with important proof of timely receipt. Drafting an insurance letter correctly is crucial here.
Our expert tip: Consider alternatives before cancelling. Sometimes a tariff adjustment or a temporary premium suspension during financial difficulties is a better solution than completely giving up protection. A sensible accident insurance can be essential in an emergency.
Expert Depth: Legal Aspects and Pitfalls
The Insurance Contract Act (VVG) forms the legal basis for cancellations. For instance, § 40 VVG governs the right of special termination in the event of premium increases. Be aware that termination of dynamic contracts with automatic performance and premium adjustments often does not trigger a special right of termination in the case of scheduled increases. Another point is the surrender value: In pure risk accident insurance, there is usually no refund of premiums upon cancellation. The situation is different for accident insurance with a guaranteed premium refund (UGBR); here, a (often small) surrender value may arise. In the event of the policyholder's death, the contract automatically ends if this was the only insured person. In the case of family policies, other insured persons can often take over the contract. Also, check whether your accident insurance is tax-deductible before making decisions.
After the termination: What happens now?
After sending your cancellation, you should wait for the insurer's written confirmation. This should state the exact end date of the contract. Your insurance cover remains valid until this date. This means that accidents occurring up to the contract's end date are still covered and can be reported. Use the remaining time to take out a new, more suitable insurance policy to avoid any gaps. A cost comparison for accident insurance can be worthwhile here. Remember that health questions may become relevant again when taking out a new policy. Early planning is therefore advisable to ensure continuous coverage. Also consider whether accident insurance is mandatory or a voluntary, but important, form of protection.
Consider alternatives to termination
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More useful links
Deutsche Gesetzliche Unfallversicherung (DGUV) provides statistics and facts about occupational accidents and diseases in Germany.
Statistisches Bundesamt (Destatis) delivers statistics on causes of death, including accidents, in Germany.
Gesetze im Internet provides the legal text of the German Insurance Contract Act (VVG).
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin (BAuA) publishes statistics on fatal occupational accidents in Germany.
Deutsche Rentenversicherung provides information about the rehabilitation services it offers.
Bundesministerium für Gesundheit offers information on medical care and health insurance services in Germany.
Gesetze im Internet contains the legal text of the German Occupational Health and Safety Act.
FAQ
What is the standard notice period for an accident insurance?
The standard (ordinary) notice period is usually <strong>three months</strong> at the end of the insurance year. You can find the exact period in your contract documents.
When can I terminate my accident insurance extraordinarily?
An extraordinary right of termination exists, for example, in the event of a premium increase without a corresponding improvement in benefits, after a regulated claim, or if the insurer reduces the benefits. The notice period is usually <strong>one month</strong>.
Does the termination of the accident insurance need to be in writing?
Yes, a termination should always be in writing. It is advisable to send it by registered mail with acknowledgment of receipt to have proof.
What happens if I miss the notice period?
If you miss the standard notice period for termination, your contract will generally be automatically extended by another year. You will then only be able to terminate it at the next regular date.
Does the accident insurance automatically end in the event of death?
Yes, if the policyholder is the only insured person, the contract automatically ends upon their death. Policies with multiple insured parties (e.g., family) often have different regulations.
Are there alternatives to cancelling my accident insurance?
Yes, alternatives can include an internal tariff change, a reduction in the sum insured, or a temporary contribution exemption. It is best to discuss this with your insurer or an independent advisor.
