According to the Motor Insurance Act of 1988, it is mandatory to, at the very least, own a valid third-party insurance policy. Hence, whenever you buy a car, the first thing you ought to do before you take your new vehicle out for a spin is to purchase such a cover. Don’t worry, as the scope of car insurance plans exceeds basic, third-party coverage. Insurers across India offer different kinds of motor insurance policies, which you can customize to best suit your needs. Therefore, before you make your pick, it is important that you understand what each subtype entails.
Broadly, there are 3 types of car insurance plans sold across the country. Keep reading to understand more about the degree of coverage provided by each.
1. Third-Party Car Insurance
Also known as a ‘liability-only’ cover, it is mandatory to own this kind of car insurance. As the name suggests, this basic policy covers liabilities caused to an external party, other than the policyholder and the insurance provider. Listed below are the coverage benefits offered by third-party motor insurance:
- Repairs or replacement expenses of third-party vehicles
- Cost of treatment and/or hospitalisation of third-party individuals
- Death of third-party victims
The claim amount is decided by the honourable courts of India. On the other hand, the premium paid by the policyholder is set by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). However, please note that these rates are subject to revision every year, based on the insurer’s loss ratio, among other factors, as determined by the IRDAI.
2. Standalone Own Damage (OD) Cover
Having an own damage automobile insurance comes in handy when natural or man-made calamities strike. This might include earthquakes, floods, storms, riots, accidents, and terror attacks, among several other trying setbacks. Moreover, other minor damage caused to the insured’s vehicle is covered, too. Therefore, such plans help a policyholder address liabilities that aren’t covered by his/her pre-existing third-party car insurance. Please note that you can purchase such a policy only when you already own a third-party cover.
The claim amount is determined by calculating the insured vehicle’s Insured Declared Value (IDV), which, in turn, is determined by the car’s yearly depreciation in value. However, unlike third-party car insurance, the premium amounts payable by the policyholder are decided by the insurance provider, based on IRDAI’s predetermined rate range, the type of vehicle, its IDV, location, and year of purchase.
3. Comprehensive Car Insurance
A comprehensive car insurance policy is a blend of a third-party cover and an OD car insurance plan. Hence, in case of an accident, this subtype offers coverage to both the policyholder and the impacted third parties.
The premium amounts are fixed by your respective insurer. A lot of thought goes into fixing the same, as rates that are too high or too low have the potential to impact the profit margins of the insurance firm. Considered to be one of the best car insurance policies in the market, a comprehensive car insurance plan covers your beloved vehicle against damage caused by:
- Extreme weather
- Fire
- Floods
- Thefts
- Natural disasters
- Vandalism
You can do a simple vehicle insurance status-check online, by browsing the digital platform from where you bought your cover and entering your customer credentials. However, if you’re someone who still hasn’t finalized a motor insurance policy because you seek more coverage, then keep reading. Below, you’ll find information about the different riders that you can add to your comprehensive car insurance plan, to boost its benefits at a small price.
Personal Accident (PA) Cover
According to the regulation released by the India Motor Tariff’s advisory committee in 2002, it is mandatory for every car owner to purchase a PA cover. In essence, this plan helps the driver of the insured car to obtain coverage in case of bodily injuries, partial/permanent disabilities, or death.
Personal Baggage Cover
If your personal baggage or other valuable belongings get damaged due to an unforeseen mishap or accident, then this add-on cover helps you cover the loss.
Roadside Assistance Cover
The last thing you want to experience whilst on a soulful road trip is a vehicle issue that strikes right in the middle of nowhere. To tackle such unpredictable adversities, you can go for a roadside assistance cover. The add-on helps you obtain emergency services such as flat tire repair, urgent fuel delivery, towing, and so much more, around the clock!
Lock & Key Replacement Cover
If you often misplace your car keys, then this additional rider might be for you. As the loss of vehicle keys isn’t covered under a comprehensive car insurance policy, you can easily add them to your plan by opting for this add-on, which simultaneously offers coverage against broken/damaged car locks, too!
Zero Depreciation Cover
After selecting this rider, you can effectively say goodbye to reduced claim amounts! The cover entitles you to obtain the promised sum insured that you are eligible for, without being subjected to yearly IDV depreciations.
Engine Protection Cover
Engine repair and replacement expenses can burn a hole in your pocket, which is why it is advisable to go for this additional rider. At a small price, this add-on will help you obtain complete coverage against all hefty engine damage expenses.
