There are three main levels of cover. Comprehensive gives you the widest cover, but it's also the most expensive. To decide which level to go for, weigh up the cost of insuring your car against the costs of having to repair or replace it.
Third party only
This is the most basic level of cover. It fulfils your legal obligations by covering any injuries (including those to your passengers) and damage that you or your passenger cause to another person or their property in an accident. It won't pay out for any damage or injury to you or your car, but you could claim against the other driver's policy if the accident was their fault.
Third party, fire and theft
This is like third party cover but it also pays to repair or replace your car if it's stolen or damaged by fire. It might be suitable if your car won't cost much to replace should you write it off.
Comprehensive
With comprehensive insurance you get the same cover as third party, fire and theft, plus the insurer will pay out if you cause damage to your own car. Policies may also provide a range of additional benefits such as cover for windscreens, stereos, personal belongings, death or personal injury, and extended foreign travel cover. But, despite its name, a comprehensive policy won't cover you for everything. All policies carry exclusions, and different policies will offer different benefits. |