A foreigner injured in a traffic accident in Serbia has the same right to compensation as a Serbian citizen. Where the claim is filed depends on whether the at-fault vehicle is insured in Serbia, abroad or not insured at all.
Immediately after the accident
- If anyone is injured, call the police and an ambulance.
- For minor accidents without injuries, the drivers fill in and exchange the European accident report.
- Photograph the scene, the vehicles and the number plates, and note the details of the driver, the owner, the insurance policy and witnesses.
- If you are injured, see a doctor as soon as possible and keep all medical records.
Where to file the compensation claim
- At-fault vehicle insured in Serbia: directly with the insurance company that insures the vehicle.
- Vehicle with foreign plates: with the insurance company authorised by the Association of Serbian Insurers to handle such claims under the green card system. If it does not pay compensation within 60 days, the claim is filed with the Association, and if the Association does not pay within 30 days either, a lawsuit can be filed.
- Uninsured or unknown vehicle: with the Guarantee Fund. For an unknown vehicle, the fund pays property damage only if someone in the accident was seriously injured and treated in hospital.
Deadlines for the insurer
Within 14 days of receiving a complete claim, the insurer must establish liability and the amount of damage and send a reasoned offer. If that is not possible, the deadline is 45 days for property damage and 90 days for personal injury. The undisputed part must be paid as an advance. If the insurer does not send an offer or a reasoned reply within 90 days, the injured party can file a lawsuit.
What damage you can claim
Compensation covers damage to the vehicle and belongings, medical costs, lost earnings, and non-material damage for physical pain, fear and reduced quality of life. If the offer is not accepted, the court determines the amount, usually with an expert opinion.
Limitation periods
A compensation claim becomes time-barred three years after the injured party learned of the damage and of who caused it, and at the latest five years after the damage occurred. If the damage was caused by a criminal offence, longer periods may apply.
Proceedings from abroad
An injured party who returned home after the accident can pursue the claim through a representative in Serbia. Medical records from abroad are submitted with a translation.
Common questions
Note: This text is general information and is not legal advice for a specific case. It reflects the regulations at the time of the page's last update (October 2026). Assessing a particular situation requires reviewing the documents and circumstances of the case.
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Contact
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