Our car insurance plans can act as essential forms of protection in stressful situations. For many, the basic coverage in the event of a car accident is enough to make monthly payments worthwhile. You don’t know when you’ll end up causing damage or injury by accident. For others, basic coverage isn’t enough to feel secure on the road.
They will demand nothing less than the most high-end comprehensive plan with extra perks. The important thing for any driver is to find a plan that meets personal needs and expectations. So, which is the best route for you? Should you go for a low-key third-party plan, a fully comprehensive policy, or something in between? Below is a quick rundown of three different types of plan: third party; third party, fire, and theft; and comprehensive. Before that, let’s go over some vital considerations when choosing a plan.Choosing Between Car Insurance Plans
When choosing a plan, you have to think about the type of cover you expect and what you need most in your situation. Those who drive a lot and often head out at night or on motorways may be more inclined toward bigger plans. They may be conscious of the need for protection against extreme accidents and medical costs. Those with families may also look for specific clauses related to other named drivers, car seat protection, and theft. The choice can also come down to the cost of the plan, which is why many lean on budget insurance. Ultimately, you need to determine which is the most cost-effective solution. You still have to be able to afford the payments to get the coverage you need.
Third-Party Only Coverage
This option is as basic as it gets, although the terms and conditions will vary between providers. Some companies will offer a lot of value on these plans with the extent of the clauses. Others may end up being too bare-bones and not suitable for serious situations. That’s why it’s so important to read the fine print before choosing a provider. This option can help cover your liability during cases of accidents, injuries, death, and property damage involving your car. There is the potential for coverage abroad, too.
Third-Party Fire and Theft
The next step up is a nice middle ground between the simplistic plans and the high-end comprehensive solutions. This has the addition of protection in the case of emergency situations and damage to the car. It provides a little more peace of mind in case of situations beyond your control. There are also clauses for theft of items from vehicles, including audio and entertainment equipment.
Comprehensive Car Insurance Plans
Finally, there are the more substantial plans that go into detail on a wider range of situations. Some of these factors may not apply to you right now but could prove useful in the future. Others may seem like a waste of money until you’re suddenly in a position to need them.
1) Third-party plans inclusive of uninsured drivers
This one speaks for itself. Third-party plans should help you deal with your liability and costs when dealing with other drivers. However, there are sometimes limitations if the other party isn’t insured themselves. Find a plan where this isn’t a problem.
2) Comprehensive fire and theft
As with the bonus third-party coverage, you can find some great plans that go into greater detail when paying out for loss and damage. The theft aspect can relate to personal belongings in the car, not just the car itself. There may be restrictions on items and values, but it’s better than nothing.
3) Vandalism
This is a secondary aspect of damage and theft that is also worth looking into. Vandalized cars deserve the same level of coverage because the thief or bored criminal caused so much destruction. Some plans will include replacement locks after a break-in – unless you had to break into your own car because you locked yourself out. They can also offer accident cover inclusive of windscreen glass replacement costs.
4) Child seat cover
This is something that new families may not have ever considered a possibility until looking at these comprehensive plans. Your child’s car seat is essential for safe travel, and it can be a nightmare if it’s ever damaged or stolen. This clause brings some much-needed peace of mind.
5) Courtesy cars and potential coverage on other vehicles
The term potential coverage on other vehicles is vague, so you would have to be clear on the terms and conditions before signing up. Yet, some plans will allow for secondary vehicles and some support for other drivers. This is great for two-car families and those with business vehicles that may be able to get additional protection. Coverage for courtesy cars is also a lifesaver if your car ends up off the road for a while.
6) Medical help
Finally, there’s the opportunity to get additional coverage on medical expenses and emergency transport. This could be a big help if you’re ever in an accident so serious that you can’t drive away or need hospital treatment. As with the other factors, the fine print makes a big difference, and there will be caveats on what you can and can’t claim.
Which Is The Best Approach For You?
It is easy to look at these types of car insurance policies side by side and say that comprehensive plans are the best option. Objectively, this is clearly the case when listing all the different types of coverage and seeing the extra benefits. Coverage on smaller factors like replacement locks and car seats is the sort of thing you think you can do without until you need it. However, it’s also understandable if you feel that this sort of coverage is too extreme when you’re paying high premiums for things you don’t use. It might be more cost-effective to go for a more low-key plan if it still provides the right basic needs. The best thing to do is compare your options, look at the price plans available, and talk to providers about policy details. You might be surprised at what you can get on a budget.