Last week, one of our operating companies, Van Ameyde Nederland, hosted a Client Event where René Gharibeh, Managing & Operational Director for Van Ameyde Austria, Hungary and Croatia, shared key developments shaping the world of cross-border claims. From road traffic accidents to complex skiing incidents, he showed how familiar claim types are evolving – and why consistent, evidence-based handling remains essential in an increasingly connected Europe.
Determining liability remains one of the most challenging aspects of international claims. In road traffic accidents, adjusters rely on national traffic regulations, supported by the European Accident Report, police documentation, and witness statements. Skiing collisions, however, often lack statutory guidance, and courts frequently turn to the FIS Rules as behavioral standards. This makes structured evidence — from sketches to medical documentation — essential to reconstruct events reliably.
Across Europe, repair costs continue to rise due to labor, parts and specialized services becoming more expensive. These shifts place greater emphasis on clear assessments, transparent reasoning, and consistent reporting between jurisdictions.
Bodily injury compensation is developing through case law, with courts refining how non-material damages are evaluated — including psychological impacts such as grief or shock. These trends call for careful expert input and accurate reserving practices.
While the fundamentals of cross-border claims handling remain steady, the environment around them is shifting. Legal frameworks evolve, costs rise at different speeds across markets, and expectations for transparency increase.
René’s insights illustrate a consistent theme: effective cross-border claims management relies on technical expertise, structured evidence, clear communication and human judgement — elements that remain essential as the landscape continues to change.
For organizations navigating this evolving landscape, partnering with a connected, experienced claims network like Van Ameyde can make all the difference.
Stay tuned — we’ll soon be sharing a full knowledge session with René, diving deeper into the developments shaping cross-border claims. What you’ve just read is only a brief snapshot of a few key themes.
Would you already like to tap into the expertise of the Van Ameyde Austria team?
