Non-material Damage due to Earthquakes in Groningen, the Netherlands. Earthquake Damage: Lawyer Fees are Reimbursed.
The court in Assen recently ruled that NAM is liable for the non-material damage resulting from the earthquakes in Groningen. A condition is that someone has been personally affected and that there is an impairment of living enjoyment. In addition, there must be a direct link between physical complaints and the earthquakes.
It is advisable to report medical complaints to your general practitioner. Based on the registration of your complaints in your GP’s journal and information from your potential healthcare providers, a medical advisor can make a statement about the causal link between the earthquakes and your complaints. If the medical advisor you engaged believes there is a causal link and NAM disagrees, an independent medical expert can be called in.
What is Personal Injury?
The starting point is that the compensation paid is sufficient to put you in the situation as if the accident never happened. In that case, you are restored to the “old situation” and the damage is compensated. Your representative will collect all damage items in a statement of damages.
Pain and suffering compensation (smartengeld) is a collective term for other non-material damage. For example, you may no longer be able to pursue certain hobbies or have permanent visible injuries.
Material Damage
This includes damage to vehicles, personal contribution to medical costs, clothing and telephone costs, travel expenses for family members, etc.
Frequently asked questions
Can I receive compensation for pain and suffering for earthquake damage in Groningen?
Yes. The court has ruled that the NAM is liable for non-material loss caused by the earthquakes, provided you are personally affected and there is an impairment of your enjoyment of your home.
What conditions apply for compensation?
There must be a direct link between your physical complaints and the earthquakes. Report complaints to your GP so a medical adviser can assess the causal link.
What does recovering earthquake damage cost?
The compensation protocol provides that the reasonable costs of legal assistance are reimbursed; a specialised lawyer can handle the case for you at no cost.