Car Insurance in Sweden

Traffic insurance (trafikförsäkring) is the minimum legally required insurance for all vehicles used on Swedish roads. It covers damage you might cause to other people or their property, but not damage to your own vehicle. Driving without traffic insurance is illegal and can result in fines.

The bonus/malus system rewards safe driving with lower premiums. Each claim-free year moves you up a bonus class, reducing your premium. Making claims can lower your bonus class and increase your premium. Most insurers start new policies at a neutral level (around 50-60% of the base premium) and adjust annually based on your driving record.

Yes, winter tires are legally required in Sweden between December 1 and March 31 when winter road conditions exist. If you're involved in an accident during winter conditions without proper winter tires, your insurance claim might be reduced or denied, as this could be considered negligence.

If you hit wildlife (such as moose, deer, or wild boar), you are legally required to mark the location and report the incident by calling 112, even if there's minimal damage. Most half and full insurance policies cover wildlife collisions, often with a separate deductible. Many insurers offer "wildlife collision deductible elimination" as an optional add-on.

Foreign drivers who have recently moved to Sweden may initially pay higher premiums due to lack of Swedish driving history and bonus rating. However, some insurers will consider your claims history from your home country if you can provide documentation. After establishing a claims-free history in Sweden, your premiums should normalize.

Some Swedish insurance companies will consider your no-claims history from other countries, particularly from within the EU. You'll need to provide documentation from your previous insurer showing your claims history. Not all insurers offer this, so it's worth shopping around if you have a good driving record from abroad.