Introduction
You have waited so long to finally purchase that car, saved for it and checked all those reviews. And now that you have it, would you really take the risk of driving it without proper car insurance? Just one accident, a scratch or major repair work can cost you so much. This is why the right car insurance policy is as important as the right vehicle.
But the problem is that a lot of people buy the cheapest insurance for car. They think that it’s enough for complete protection, when actually, these basic policies often offer only partial protection. For full-on protection, you need add-ons like bumper to bumper insurance along with proper understanding of how the claim process actually works. Let’s learn about it all!
What Is a Car Insurance Policy?
In simple terms, a car insurance policy is an agreement between you and your insurance provider. In this, you pay a set premium and in return, you will get financial protection during events like:
- Accidents
- Theft
- Fire
- Natural disasters
- Injury or property damage to third party
In India, it’s compulsory to get a third-party insurance. However, it only covers the damage that you have caused to someone else and not your own car. That is the reason most car owners want comprehensive car insurance.
Types of Car Insurance Policies in India
Third-Party Car Insurance
As per the law, it’s a mandatory requirement for all car owners.
- It covers damage caused to another person, vehicle or property
- Your own car is not covered in it
- It’s usually the cheapest insurance for car but not ideal fin terms of protection
Comprehensive Car Insurance
This one is recommended for all car owners because:
- It covers your car as well as third-party damage
- Provides protection against accidents, theft, fire and natural disasters
- Bumper to bumper insurance add-on makes it even more beneficial
What All Does Comprehensive Car Insurance Cover?
All car owners must ideally choose a comprehensive plan. It gives peace of mind and helps avoid hassles. This is what it usually includes:
- Damage that happened because of an accident
- Fire and explosion
- Floods, storms, earthquakes etc
- Theft
- Vandalism / riots
- Cover for personal accident
- Third-party liabilities
What Is Not Covered?
These are the exclusions that you must know of because this will help you avoid claim rejections.
- Accidents because of drunk driving
- Driving without a licence
- Mechanical breakdown
- Normal wear and tear
- Electrical failure
- Damage happened outside of the policy period
- Using a private car but for commercial use
Add-Ons For Better Protection
Add-ons are the extra yet optional covers that you can include to enhance your car insurance policy. Below are the most useful ones to consider:
- Bumper to Bumper Insurance (Zero Dep): This one is definitely the most popular add-on because it ensures no depreciation deduction during claims. Here, your insurer takes care of the full repair amount. It’s perfect for:
- New cars
- High-end cars
- Driving in cities with heavy traffic
- Engine Protect: It covers the damages that arise because of the entry of water, oil leakage or maybe a hydrostatic lock.
- Roadside Assistance: Helps with towing, jump start, battery help etc. Gives huge support during breakdowns.
- Return to Invoice (RTI): In case your car gets stolen or is totally damaged, you will get the original invoice amount and not the depreciated amount.
- Key Replacement Cover: Covers for the lost or stolen keys and is highly useful for high-tech keys.
- Consumables Cover: Items like nuts, bolts, engine oil and AC gas, that are usually excluded, are covered in this add-on.
While add-ons like bumper to bumper insurance charge a little much, you also get to save a lot of money during repairs
How to Choose the Right Car Insurance Plan?
The aim is to balance protection and price. Here’s how you do it:
- Don’t just go on and pick the cheapest insurance that you get
• Compare coverage and claim settlement ratio of multiple options
• Always choose the correct IDV (Insured Declared Value)
• Add zero depreciation cover for newer cars
• Check the number of network garages listed with the insurer
• Always read exclusions carefully
If you compare smartly, you can totally ensure maximum protection without overspending.
Steps in Car Insurance Claim Process
If you follow these steps, it’s actually very easy to file a claim:
Step 1: Immediately Inform the Insurer: Most insurers need you to notify them within 24–48 hours.
Step 2: Take Photos of the Damage: When you have clear pictures, it helps in fast approval.
Step 3: File an FIR: This is normally required for theft or major third-party damage.
Step 4: Visit a Network Garage: The repairs are cashless. No upfront payment needed.
Step 5: Surveyor Inspection: A surveyor checks the damage caused and gives approval for the repair estimate.
Step 6: Repairs Begin: Garage starts working on your after getting approval.
Step 7: Settlement: For cashless claims, the insurer pays directly to the garage.
If applicable, you need to pay only for the deductibles.
How to Lower Your Premium Without Losing Coverage
These tips will help you enjoy good protection without have to spend more than required:
Always renew on time
• Don’t set a very low IDV
• Make wise use of No-Claim Bonus
• Install anti-theft devices in the car
• Before renewal, compare different plans
• Drive safely so that there are no frequent claims.
Conclusion
A car insurance policy is not just a legal compulsion but a financial protection against unexpected expenses of repairs. While cheapest insurance for car may seem more attractive but it often offers limited coverage. The smart thing to do is opting for a comprehensive plan with the right add-ons. This will give the most benefits. Understand the coverages, exclusions and the claim process and you can secure the most suitable policy.
If you want easy comparison and expert guidance, Policywings can help you make the right decision!
