Compensation for road-accident victims linked to refugees from the LPR and DPR to be funded by RAMI
According to Igor Yurgens, the president of the Russian Association of Motor Insurers (RAMI), compensation for individuals injured in traffic incidents involving refugees from the LPR and DPR will be drawn from RAMI’s compensation funds. This statement frames the mechanism by which victims may access relief through a centralized pool managed by RAMI, ensuring that compensation processes remain orderly and predictable for those affected on the road.
The initiative, introduced by State Duma deputy Konstantin Zatulin, has undergone discussion through the second and third readings and has reportedly passed with unanimous support. The next step involves review by the Federation Council, where observers anticipate a straightforward approval given the broad consensus and the public interest surrounding timely victim compensation.
In presenting the measure, the deputy noted that visitors from outside the country do not benefit from the traditional bonus-malus adjustment, which can result in higher policy premiums. For some applicants, the absence of a home policy can lead to premium costs approaching 15 thousand rubles, creating real hardship for those who find themselves homeless or financially strained. The proposed plan seeks to ensure that these individuals receive prompt compensation for damages incurred in traffic incidents, acknowledging that such guarantees lie at the core of a functioning mandatory vehicle insurance framework.
The proposal also revisits previous discussions about financing the program. Earlier considerations explored coverage by the Pension Fund of the Russian Federation, but the final arrangement shifted responsibility to the insurers in exchange for policy-makers backing anti-insurance-fraud measures. This shift underscores an emphasis on maintaining insurer accountability while safeguarding victims’ interests.
For context, there have been specific temporary exemptions. For instance, in 2022, car owners arriving from Ukraine and from the LPR and DPR territories were not required to submit an OSAGO policy within 90 days of entering Russia. Should an accident occur before January 1, 2023, victims could still receive compensation from the public safety organization. Nevertheless, the rule also states that these individuals remain obligated to obtain an OSAGO policy after the proposed grace period ends, preserving long-term coverage commitments for all drivers.
Image credit: Donat Sorokin/TASS