Amicable settlements can now be filed online; higher damage ceiling for digital claims
Drivers involved in minor road accidents can submit their amicable agreements online. This initiative has been developed by the National Financial Market Commission. The document also outlines an increase in the limits for material damages.
For paper forms, the compensation ceiling will now increase to 25,000 lei, while for electronic verification, the limit will be 50,000 lei. The current maximum ceiling is 15,000 lei.
Expanded and digitalized mechanism
Since 2019, police officers no longer intervene in minor accidents when drivers reach an agreement on the spot. Initially, this mechanism applied to damages not exceeding 10,000 lei. However, the limit has since been increased, and more drivers are opting for amicable settlements.
For example, in 2024, over 24,000 drivers received compensation from insurance companies, with nearly 40 percent of them reaching agreements directly at the scene of the accident.
According to representatives of the CNPF (National Commission of Financial Markets), an online form will be available by the end of the year via the EVO application, developed in collaboration with the Electronic Governance Agency.
CNPF Vice President Adrian Gheroghiță stated that this digitalization effort aims to reduce the risks of fraud.
"We set out to improve this mechanism, working closely with the Electronic Government Agency, to provide citizens the option to complete this form online through the EVO application."
"It is expected that geolocation, photos, and the relevant individuals' data will be transmitted through the EVO application, significantly minimizing the risk of fraud when using the amicable settlement method through electronic completion."
Drivers' reactions
Currently, amicable findings are prepared on paper and submitted to the insurance company of the at-fault driver.
Some drivers believe that an online version of this process will simplify the procedure. One driver stated, "It will be more convenient because it will be digitalized and controlled. With the electronic signature and other features, everything that happened can be verified."
Others acknowledge that while the initiative is positive, it requires careful analysis. As one driver remarked, "It's a great idea, but there are pros and cons to consider. There are many nuances that need to be analyzed. Overall, though, it’s a good concept."
Many drivers also think that digitalization will help reduce traffic jams and waiting times. One driver said, "I agree that it would relieve traffic congestion, especially in situations where an accident has blocked the road."
Another added, "If people can resolve things on the spot, why call the police?"
A third driver pointed out, "You won't have to wait as long, and there won't be as many traffic jams."
Increased limit for digital submissions
The proponents of this initiative argue that the risk of fraud against insurance companies is reduced with online filing. As a result, the maximum amount for material damage claims submitted in digital format will be set at 50,000 lei, which is double the limit for claims submitted on paper.
This project will undergo public consultations.
