In Sweden, understanding traffic insurance laws is essential for every vehicle owner. The Swedish insurance system has its own unique features and requirements that differ from other countries. This guide will help you navigate the complex landscape of mandatory insurance requirements in Sweden.

Mandatory Traffic Insurance (Trafikförsäkring)

In Sweden, all motor vehicles must have traffic insurance (Trafikförsäkring). This is regulated by the Traffic Damage Act (Trafikskadelagen) and is a legal requirement for any vehicle that is registered for use on public roads.

The mandatory traffic insurance covers:

• Personal injury: Compensation for personal injuries sustained by anyone involved in an accident, including passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers.
• Property damage: Damage to other people's property, such as other vehicles or roadside structures.

It's important to note that this mandatory insurance does not cover damage to your own vehicle or property. For that, you would need additional coverage.

Penalties for Driving Without Insurance

If you drive without valid traffic insurance in Sweden, you could face significant penalties:

• A daily fee enforced by Trafikförsäkringsföreningen (the Swedish Motor Insurers) for each day your vehicle remains uninsured
• Potential fines imposed by the police
• Personal liability for any damage or injuries caused in an accident

Additional Insurance Options

While traffic insurance is mandatory, it offers limited protection. Most Swedish drivers opt for additional coverage to ensure comprehensive protection:

Half Insurance (Halvförsäkring)

Half insurance includes traffic insurance plus:

• Fire insurance: Covers damage to your vehicle from fire
• Theft insurance: Provides coverage if your vehicle is stolen or damaged during a theft attempt
• Glass insurance: Covers repair or replacement of windshields and windows
• Legal assistance: Helps with legal costs related to vehicle disputes
• Roadside assistance: Provides help if your vehicle breaks down

Full Insurance (Helförsäkring)

Full insurance includes everything in half insurance plus:

• Collision damage: Covers damage to your own vehicle in a collision, regardless of who is at fault
• Vehicle damage: Covers other types of damage to your vehicle, such as vandalism

Special Considerations for Foreign Residents

If you're moving to Sweden with a foreign-registered vehicle, you should be aware of the following:

• Vehicles imported to Sweden must be insured with a Swedish insurance company
• You typically have one week from the date of customs clearance to obtain Swedish traffic insurance
• The Green Card system applies in Sweden, allowing temporary coverage from your home country insurance in some cases

The Swedish Bonus System

The Swedish insurance system typically includes a bonus-malus system, which rewards safe drivers with lower premiums and penalizes those involved in accidents with higher premiums:

• Every year without claims increases your bonus class, potentially lowering your premium
• Filing a claim may reduce your bonus class, potentially increasing your premium
• Some insurance companies offer bonus protection, which allows you to make a claim without losing your bonus

How to Choose the Right Insurance

When selecting car insurance in Sweden, consider the following factors:

• Vehicle value and age: Newer, more expensive vehicles typically benefit from full insurance
• Deductible amounts: Higher deductibles generally mean lower premiums
• Additional coverage options: Consider add-ons like rental car coverage or new value compensation
• Insurance company reputation: Research customer service ratings and claim handling efficiency

Conclusion

Understanding Swedish traffic insurance laws is essential for compliance and adequate protection. While traffic insurance is the legal minimum, most drivers benefit from more comprehensive coverage. Assessing your specific needs and circumstances will help you select the right insurance package for your vehicle.

At SwedishAutoGuard, we offer tailored insurance solutions that meet the legal requirements while providing the additional protection you need. Contact us to discuss your options and ensure you have the right coverage for your vehicle.