Car insurance is a perfect beacon of protection against financial bumps. It safeguards against unforeseen turns and twists as we cruise down Indian roads. Beyond financial safety, car insurance is essential and mandatory for driving on Indian roads, according to the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (amended in 2022).
Join us as we define car insurance, share details about how it works, and explore the complex world of premiums, claims, add-ons, coverage, and more.
How does car insurance work in India?
Whether you are a seasoned driver or a novice, every vehicle owner on Indian roads needs a valid car insurance policy. Wondering what is car insurance in India? Actually, it's a straightforward concept that includes a mutually agreed-upon contract between the insurer and the car or vehicle owner, known as the insured.
The insured pays a premium to insure their vehicle against monetary losses due to theft, accidents, natural calamities, etc. You can also opt for add-ons for additional benefits, according to your specific requirements. In exchange for a specific premium, the insurer covers financial risks associated with the events mentioned in the car insurance policy's terms and conditions.
You can also get car insurance online through your insurance provider's website. Keep scrolling for types of car insurance in India, add-ons and more.
Types of car insurance in India
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Comprehensive car insurance
This type of car insurance offers the most extensive coverage available for Indian car owners. It covers third-party liabilities and financial risk to your own vehicle due to theft, accidents, natural calamities, and fire. You can customise this plan by opting for add-on covers.
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Third-party car insurance
This type is a basic but mandatory policy. It covers third-party liability, in case of incidents that may lead to bodily injuries, damage to property, and even death of a third party. It does not cover the costs incurred for repairing your own vehicle.
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Own damage cover
Tprovides coverage for damages to your vehicle but does not include third-party liability cover. This policy will also cover theft and other damages to your vehicle.
One can opt for add-ons like zero depreciation coverage, PA (Personal Accident) cover, and engine protection cover. These can be added to a comprehensive car insurance plan only.
Add-on covers in car insurance
Add-ons are an excellent tool to customise your motor insurance plan and enhance its scope of coverage. We have explored car insurance and its types. Now, you can consider the following add-on covers to power up your car insurance.
- Zero Depreciation Cover ensures bumper-to-bumper coverage. Also known as a ‘nil depreciation’ cover, it is usually available for the first five years from the date the car/vehicle was purchased. The insurer doesn’t deduct the car’s year-on-year depreciated value during claim settlement.
- Roadside Assistance Coverage provides access to emergency car care services when your vehicle breaks down due to a mechanical snag. You can avail of services like towing to the nearest garage and more.
There are more types of add-ons that can be explored – engine protect cover, consumables protect cover, garage cash cover, personal belongings cover, and so on. The types of add-ons can vary from insurer to insurer, and policy to policy.
Conclusion
A valid car insurance policy is essential and mandatory for all car owners across India. With the car insurance online facility, you can browse, compare, purchase, or renew your car insurance from anywhere. Explore car insurance policies and add-ons, according to your specific needs for the best coverage. Choose a plan that meets your needs and comes at an affordable price.