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Current court judgement: HUK-Coburg and Check24

European Court of Justice strengthens consumer rights

A recent judgement by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) has set the insurance industry in motion: HUK-Coburg, Germany's largest motor insurer, can no longer defend itself against the fact that its rate offers are being used by comparison portals such as Check24 Public assessed and given grades become. For consumers, this means More transparency, better comparability - and clear orientation in the insurance jungle.

Important facts about the ECJ judgement against HUK-Coburg


What exactly happened?

On Thursday, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruled that Check24 no unauthorised comparative advertising when there are insurance offers - including from HUK-Coburg rated with school grades between 1.0 and 4.0.

HUK sued the portal in 2020. Their accusation: the awarding of grades constitutes a "comparative advertising among competitors" and damaged its reputation. The ECJ took a different view - and ruled in favour of Check24.

The decision is based on proceedings before the Munich Regional Court Iwhich had forwarded the case to Luxembourg for examination.

Why the judgement is important - also for accident victims

As Independent motor vehicle appraisers we see with Kukuk We regularly see how insurers try to influence claimants - be it by tying them to the workshop, cutting back on expert reports or targeted communication. This makes it all the more important that Neutral, comprehensible and publicly accessible insurance comparisons are.

The ECJ's decision strengthens exactly that:

  • Transparency for consumers

  • Assessability of tariffs and services

  • Protection against one-sided market communication by large providers

Focus on HUK-Coburg: No isolated cases

HUK-Coburg is repeatedly criticised - not only because of such legal disputes, but also because of questionable settlement practice in the event of a claim (more on this in our article: "What customers experience with HUK24 in the event of a claim").

Many of our customers report:

  • Long processing times

  • Arbitrary cuts

  • Pressure to use "in-house" partner workshops

This judgement could be a small but significant step in the direction of Fairness and consumer protection be.

Conclusion: Insurers have to be measured - and that's a good thing

The current ECJ judgement is certain: Insurers like HUK-Coburg must face up to independent assessment - and that is absolutely in the interests of consumers. Platforms such as Check24 may continue to rate tariffs with grades and thus create more transparency.

This is an important signal, especially in a market in which large providers are using their power in a targeted manner.

Are you in trouble with HUK or another insurance company after an accident?

We can help you. As Independent motor vehicle appraisers we stand on the side of the injured party - and ensure that your claim is correctly recorded, documented and enforced.

Frequently asked questions about the ECJ judgement

How does the judgement affect my insurance?

The judgement obliges insurers to accept tariff ratings from comparison portals such as Check24. This increases transparency and comparability for policyholders.

What advantages do I have as an accident victim?

Accident victims benefit from better comparability of tariffs, which can lead to fairer compensation.

Why is the judgement important for consumers?

It strengthens consumer rights by ensuring that insurers must accept independent ratings, which leads to more competition.

What does the judgement mean for the insurance industry?

Insurers must adapt to greater transparency and make their tariffs clearer and more comprehensible.

How can Kukuk help me?

We offer independent expert opinions and support you in asserting your rights against insurance companies.

Important advantages of the judgement

Why the judgement counts for you

Increased transparency

The judgement ensures greater transparency in the evaluation of insurance tariffs, making it easier for policyholders to make informed decisions.

Better opportunities for comparison

The acceptance of rate ratings simplifies and improves the comparison of insurance policies via portals such as Check24.

Strengthening consumer rights

Policyholders benefit from a stronger position vis-à-vis insurance companies, as independent assessments must be recognised.

Facilitated claims settlement

Accident victims can hope for a fairer and faster claims settlement as a result of the judgement.

Improved market overview

The judgement promotes a more comprehensive market overview as more tariff information is made publicly available.

Increased competitiveness

Insurers need to do more for their customers, which can lead to better offers and conditions.

Independent expert opinions

Our valuer service offers you independent valuations that now carry even more weight.

Legal support

In co-operation with lawyers, we offer you comprehensive support in enforcing your claims.

Experiences of our customers

Thanks to the judgement, I was finally able to gain clarity about my insurance rates. Kukuk's service was an invaluable help!

Anna M.

Kukuk's support helped me to successfully assert my claims against the insurance company. Highly recommended!

Thomas K.

I was impressed by the quick and professional help I received after my accident. Many thanks to the team at Kukuk!

Sabine L.

Enforce your rights!

Take the opportunity to assert your claims with the support of our experienced team of motor vehicle experts. Contact us today to ensure that your interests are protected.

Contact us

Phone

+49 (0) 2206 95 900

Email

info@kukuk.com

Address

Kaldauer Height 11-13
51491 Overath (Germany)

 

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