Italy
Italy's direct-indemnity system (CARD) means you claim from your own insurer, who recovers from the at-fault insurer. Strict statutory deadlines, mandatory pre-litigation mediation, and IVASS oversight all push insurers to settle promptly.
Your key rights
Direct indemnity (procedura CARD)
For most two-vehicle accidents you claim from your own insurer (Convenzione tra Assicuratori per il Risarcimento Diretto). This is faster than chasing the at-fault insurer.
Statutory payment deadlines
Material damage: settlement within 60 days of the offer becoming due. Personal injury: 90 days. Late payment automatically triggers statutory interest.
Mandatory pre-litigation mediation
For motor liability claims and amounts up to €50,000, you must attempt negoziazione assistita (assisted negotiation) before going to court.
Codice del Consumo protection
Any clause that excludes or limits consumer rights, or creates significant imbalance, is null and void — even if signed.
AGCM enforcement
The Italian Competition Authority actively investigates and fines insurers for unfair practices, including obstruction of access to the claim file or unjustified denial.
Compensable damages
Market value minus residual, plus rental car (when needed for work), loss of use, towing and legal-appraisal fees.
IVASS handles complaints against the insurer; if unresolved you may proceed to assisted negotiation and the courts.
Codice delle Assicurazioni Private (D.Lgs. 209/2005) · Codice del Consumo · Art. 1916 c.c.
2 years from the date of the accident
Article 2952 c.c. The clock can be interrupted by a formal written demand (raccomandata A/R or PEC).
Valofair is coming to your market
Be the first to know when Valofair launches. Join the waitlist and we'll reach out as soon as we're ready to take claims in your country.
Join the waitlist for ItalyOther markets we cover
Browse the brief for any country in our footprint.