Hunting in Germany is a long-standing cultural tradition that is subject to strict legal rules. Anyone who wants to hunt in Germany needs a hunting licence (Jagdschein), which is issued only after passing the hunter's examination. This comes with a legal duty to take out hunting liability insurance (Jagdhaftpflichtversicherung). It is mandatory for all licence holders in Germany and protects against the financial consequences of damage that can arise in connection with hunting.
Hunting liability insurance is a specialised form of liability insurance designed for the particular risks of hunting. Unlike general private liability insurance, which expressly excludes hunting, hunting liability insurance covers all typical hunting risks. These include personal injury from the use of firearms, damage to vehicles caused by game, and damage caused by hunting dogs. These specific risks make a separate, specialised policy essential.
Cover for wildlife accidents is especially relevant. If a hunter drives game onto the road and a traffic accident results, the hunter can be held liable for the damage. Without suitable insurance, such compensation claims could threaten a person's livelihood. Hunting liability insurance steps in in such cases and protects the policyholder from far-reaching financial consequences, whether or not they are personally at fault.
The insurance is for all holders of a valid hunting licence in Germany, whether they hunt actively or only hold a practice licence. Guest hunters who hunt in someone else's territory should also make sure they have adequate cover. Many hunters belong to a hunting club that offers collective insurance, but it is advisable to know the exact scope of cover, since club schemes do not always cover every individual risk adequately.
When choosing hunting liability insurance, hunters should pay particular attention to the sum insured. A minimum of 5 million euros for personal injury is recommended, since compensation claims after serious accidents can be very high. The territorial scope is also important: anyone who hunts abroad now and then may need international cover. This should definitely be clarified before the contract is signed.
We are glad to help you find the right protection for your hunting activity. The right cover is a legal requirement and also shows responsibility towards yourself and others. That lets you pursue your passion without worry and within the law.
Hunting liability insurance: benefits
Compulsory insurance for all hunters in Germany. A requirement for the hunting licence.
Smart line: Compensation for personal injury, property damage and financial loss; defence against unjustified claims in court; environmental damage (remediation costs); insured use of weapons and accidental misuse; cover for uncollectable claims; worldwide cover abroad for up to 5 years; sum insured up to 50 million euros.
Komfort line: Sum insured up to 75 million euros; hunting dog cover (up to 5 dogs, also private use); drone cover up to 7.5 million euros (e.g. fawn rescue); damaged third-party hunting weapons up to 75,000 euros; loss of equipment.
Tax-deductible as a provision expense. Also recommended: accident insurance (Unfallversicherung) and occupational disability insurance (Berufsunfähigkeitsversicherung, BU).