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Facts You Should Know About Car Insurance Policies

Car insurance is not just a legal requirement in India. It is also an important financial safety tool for every vehicle owner. Many people buy insurance without fully understanding how it works. Knowing the basic facts can help you choose the right policy and avoid future problems.

Below are some important facts about car insurance that every vehicle owner should know.

1. Car Insurance Is Mandatory in India

As per the Motor Vehicles Act, every car owner must have at least third-party insurance.

Driving without valid insurance can lead to:

  • Heavy fines
  • Legal penalties
  • Vehicle seizure in some cases

Third-party insurance covers damage or injury caused to another person or their property.

2. Comprehensive Insurance Gives Better Protection

There are mainly two types of car insurance:

  • Third-Party Insurance - Covers damage to others only
  • Comprehensive Insurance - Covers third-party damage plus your own car damage

A comprehensive policy protects your vehicle from:

  • Accidents
  • Theft
  • Fire
  • Natural disasters like floods or earthquakes

Although it costs more, it offers wider financial safety.

3. IDV Decides Your Car’s Insurance Value

IDV (Insured Declared Value) is the current market value of your car.

It decides how much claim amount you will receive in case of total loss or theft.

Important points:

  • Higher IDV = higher premium
  • Lower IDV = lower claim amount

Always choose a realistic IDV while buying or renewing your policy.

4. No Claim Bonus (NCB) Can Save Money

If you do not make any claim during the policy year, you earn a No Claim Bonus./p>

Benefits of NCB:

  • Discount on premium (up to 50%)
  • Can be transferred to a new car
  • Encourages safe driving

NCB belongs to the policyholder, not the car.

5. Add-Ons Improve Coverage

Add-on covers provide extra protection at an additional cost. Common add-ons include:

  • Zero Depreciation Cover
  • Engine Protection Cover
  • Roadside Assistance
  • Return to Invoice Cover

These are useful, especially for new or high-value cars.

6. Claim Process Is Now Mostly Online

Most insurance companies now offer:

  • Online claim registration
  • Digital document submission
  • Faster claim settlement

This makes the process easier and more transparent for customers.

7.Policy Renewal Should Be On Time

Driving with an expired insurance policy is illegal. Late renewal can also result in:

  • Higher premium
  • Vehicle inspection
  • Loss of No Claim Bonus

Always renew your policy before the expiry date.

8.Car Insurance Does Not Cover Everything

Many people assume insurance covers all damages, but that is not true.

Common exclusions include:

  • Drunk driving
  • Driving without a valid licence
  • Normal wear and tear
  • Mechanical or electrical failure

Always read the policy terms carefully.

Conclusion

Car insurance is more than just a legal formality. It is a financial shield that protects you from unexpected losses. Understanding these key facts helps you make better decisions, save money, and stay stress-free on the road.

If you choose the right policy and renew it on time, your car insurance can truly work in your favour.

Updated On: 2025-12-31

Author : Team PolicyBachat

Frequently Asked Questions

New car insurance in India typically includes coverage for third-party liability as mandated by law, as well as own damage coverage that provides protection against damage to the car due to natural calamities, theft, and accidents. The own damage coverage may include a range of optional add-ons, such as engine protection, zero depreciation, roadside assistance, and personal accident cover for passengers. Some insurance providers also offer additional benefits for new cars, such as a higher IDV (insured declared value), longer policy terms, and coverage for accessories and modifications. It is important for car owners to carefully review their policies and understand the coverage and benefits provided by their new car insurance policy.

In India, third-party car insurance is a mandatory insurance policy that every vehicle owner is required to purchase as per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Third-party insurance provides coverage against any legal liabilities arising due to injuries or damages caused to third parties due to an accident involving the insured car. The policy covers the insured's liability to pay compensation for damages caused to third parties, including death or bodily injury, and damage to property. Third-party insurance does not provide coverage against any damages to the insured vehicle or its owner. It is advisable to opt for comprehensive insurance coverage that provides additional benefits such as coverage against damages to the insured vehicle, personal accident coverage, and more.

In India, there is no significant difference between comprehensive and fully comprehensive car insurance. Both types of policies provide coverage for damage to the insured car, as well as liability coverage for damages or injuries to third-party property or persons. Comprehensive car insurance in India typically covers a wider range of risks than third-party insurance, including theft, fire, vandalism, and damage caused by natural disasters or accidents. Some comprehensive policies may also include additional features, such as roadside assistance, personal accident coverage, or a no-claims bonus. However, the specific terms and conditions of the policy may vary depending on the insurer, so it is important to review the details of the policy before purchasing to ensure that it provides the desired level of coverage.

Yes, you can renew your car insurance policy before the expiry date. Rather it is the most sensible way as by doing so you can renew the policy without any break. But just make sure that you don't delay the process any further. Keep in mind that in case of renewing an expired car insurance policy, your car would have to undergo inspection. Also, if your car insurance has expired for more than 90 days, then you may lose out on your no-claim bonus benefit too.

Yes, you can renew your car insurance before it expires, and it is the best option to do so. All insurance companies allow customers to renew their car insurance policy at least 45 days before the current policy expires. Therefore, even if you get your car's insurance policy renewed well before the existing policy's expiry date, the new car insurance policy will come into effect only after the older policy expires. If you call to renew your insurance within the first few days of expiration, there will not be any consequences. Be careful not to drive the car during that period as that could lead to damage.

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