Minor Damage to a Car: What Counts as Minor Damage – and How Do I Behave Correctly?

A quick bump in the parking lot, a shopping cart rolling against the car, a small bump when reversing – at first glance, the damage is often “not worth mentioning”. But it is precisely this seemingly harmless damage that can be legally explosive. This is where the often underestimated issue of minor damage begins.

What Is Minor Damage?

Minor damage is small, superficial damage that does not affect any safety-relevant vehicle parts. Typical examples are

• Paint scratches
• Small dents in the sheet metal
• Broken plastic parts (e.g. on the bumper)
• Scratched rear-view mirrors

The rule of thumb: If the damage is less than around 750 euros, experts and insurers often refer to it as minor damage. But be careful: this limit is not set by law but is a rough guide.

Do I Have to Call the Police in the Event of Minor Damage?

Basically: No, you do not necessarily have to call the police if the damage is obviously minor and the question of fault is clear.

However:

• If the injured party is not on site (e.g. in the case of parking lot damage)
• If there is a dispute about the course of the accident
• If the damage is greater than expected

Then you should always contact the police to be on the safe side legally. This will help you avoid trouble with the insurance company or even hit-and-run proceedings later on.

What Counts as Minor Damage?

Not everything that looks small is minor damage. A few examples for orientation:

✅ Minor Damage:

• Slight scratch in the paintwork
• Minor dent without paint damage
• Loose mirror housing

❌ Not Minor Damage:

• Deformations on the bumper
• Crack in a headlight
• Damage to load-bearing or safety-relevant parts (e.g. chassis)

Tip: If you are unsure – have the damage assessed in a workshop or by an expert.

Settling Minor Damage Without Insurance?

Especially in the case of minor damage, many drivers decide to settle the claim without involving the insurance company. This can make sense in order to avoid a downgrade in the no-claims bonus class.

Important here:

• Have the damage confirmed in writing.
• Record all agreements in a damage report.
• Do not pay without proof – proof protects both sides.

Hit and Run with Minor Damage – a Major Risk

A common misconception: “A note on the windshield is enough for such minor damage.”

Wrong. If the injured party is not present, you must wait a reasonable amount of time (approx. 30 minutes) and then inform the police. A note alone does not protect you from criminal prosecution.

Hit and run is considered a criminal offense in Germany – even for minor damage. The consequences can be:

• A fine or even imprisonment
• Points in Flensburg
• Revocation of driving license
• Higher insurance premiums

Good to Know: The case law is clear here. Anyone who simply drives away after a minor accident is liable to prosecution – even if the damage appears minor.

How High Are the Costs for Minor Damage?

That depends on the damage, of course. A small scratch in the paintwork can cost between 150 and 400 euros. A small dent without paint damage can often be repaired with Smart Repair for less than 200 euros.

A visit to the garage provides clarity – and saves you from unnecessary costs or legal problems.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is minor damage to a car?
Minor damage that is not safety-relevant – usually less than 750 euros in repair costs.

Do I have to call the police in the event of minor damage?
Only if the question of fault is unclear, if the injured party cannot be found or if the damage could be greater than expected.

What is the limit for minor damage?
Standard value: approx. 750 euros – may vary depending on the region and assessment.

Can I simply drive away after a minor claim?
No. Without contacting the injured party or the police, it is a hit and run – even for minor damage.

Who pays if I cause minor damage to someone else's car?
As a rule, your motor vehicle liability insurance – provided you have reported the damage correctly.
 

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Conclusion: Small, but Not to Be Underestimated

Minor damage may seem superficial and harmless – but care is still required. Even minor damage can have legal consequences if it is not reported or documented correctly. It is important to make a clear distinction between minor and relevant accident damage, stay on the safe side legally and make a conscious decision as to whether a private settlement or an insurance claim makes more sense. Because even a minor scratch can have major consequences – if you underestimate it.