Owning a four-wheeler in Kerala comes with responsibilities, including getting proper insurance. Car insurance in Kerala isn’t just a legal requirement – it’s a financial protection against accidents, theft and natural disasters. Kerala’s unique geography with coastal areas, highlands, torrential monsoons and dense urban centres makes insurance a safety net, especially as the state is prone to landslides and floods.
Read on to know the features, benefits, types and tips for buying the best car insurance in Kerala.
Features of car insurance
Getting insurance for car in Kerala allows you to avail these important features:
- Financial protection: Covers repair costs after accidents, thefts, irreparable damage and natural disasters.
- Legal protection: Meets the mandatory insurance requirements under the Motor Vehicles Act 1988.
- Third-party liability: Covers damages to other vehicles, properties and individuals.
- Personal accident cover: Provides compensation for disability or death.
- 24/7 Roadside assistance: Offers roadside help, such as free towing, tyre change or battery recharge.
- Customisable add-ons: Offers options like zero depreciation, tyre, engine and pillion rider coverage or enhanced roadside assistance.
- Cashless claims: Allows cashless repairs at network garages across India.
- No-claim bonus: Rewards claim-free years with premium discounts of up to 50%.
Types of car insurance policies in Kerala
There are four types of car insurance in Kerala:
- Third-party car insurance
This is basic insurance, legally mandatory and covers damages to other vehicles and injury to individuals. However, it does not cover your own vehicle.
- Standalone own-damage insurance
This policy covers damages to your own car due to unforeseen incidents. It can be purchased alongside third party car insurance.
- Comprehensive Car Insurance
This all-inclusive policy offers complete protection, covering:
- Own vehicle damage
- Third-party legal liabilities
- Personal accident coverage
- Natural disasters (floods, landslides)
- Man-made disasters (riots, vandalism, theft)
- Zero depreciation cover
The best car insurance in Kerala generally offers this add-on cover. Under this, the insurer fully compensates the claim amount without deducting the depreciation value of the damaged parts.
Benefits of car insurance policies in Kerala
Investing in car insurance offers several advantages:
- Natural calamities: Kerala’s monsoons can lead to floods and water damage. Comprehensive car insurance often includes engine protection for such scenarios.
- Theft: Rising theft cases make insurance a crucial investment.
- Accident: Covers repair costs for damages after accidents.
- Legal protection: Keeps you compliant with Kerala’s motor laws.
- Peace of mind: Knowing you and the additional rider are financially covered reduces stress during emergencies.
Platforms offering car insurance online Kerala allow easy comparison of these benefits across providers.
Coverage offered under car insurance in Kerala
Coverage depends on policy type, insurer and add-ons. Standard car insurance policies include:
- Repairs or replacement after collisions.
- Compensation if the car is stolen.
- Coverage for fire and explosion.
- Protection against floods, landslides and cyclones.
- Cashless repairs at network garages.
- Third-party injury or property damage.
- Compensation for injury or death of the policyholder.
- Optional coverages like engine, expensive components and zero depreciation.
How to buy car insurance online in Kerala?
Purchasing car insurance Kerala online is made easy by insurers through discounts, digital payments and EMIs on premiums for luxury cars. Here are the steps:
- Research plans: Compare different insurers’ policy features, premium amounts and claim-compensated-ratio on platforms offering online car insurance Kerala.
- Visit website: Visit the website of your chosen insurance provider or aggregator.
- Enter details: Add details like make-model, registration number, address and engine and chassis number.
- Choose a policy: Select third-party or comprehensive based on your needs.
- Select add-ons: Choose additional covers if required.
- Make payment: Get your quote and verify all details. Complete the transaction securely. You will receive the policy softcopy in your email and the hard copy will arrive in 5-7 working days.
FAQs
- Is car insurance mandatory in Kerala?
Yes, at minimum, third party car insurance is mandatory as per Indian law. Driving without it leads to a fine of Rs 2000 or 3-months imprisonment (As of March 1, 2025).
- What documents are needed to buy insurance for car in Kerala?
You need your car’s registration number, ID and address proofs and previous policy (if any).
- How do I renew my car insurance in Kerala?
You can renew online through the insurer’s website or app. Remember to renew before expiry to avoid policy lapse and maintain your no-claim bonus.
Conclusion
Whether you are driving through Munnar’s lush landscapes or braving Wayanad’s monsoons, the right car insurance plan will save money and stress during emergencies.
By understanding the different options and comparing policies online, you can find coverage that meets your needs and budget.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.