What is a Comprehensive Insurance Policy for Vehicles?

How Does a Comprehensive Insurance Policy Work

If your car is damaged by a type of accident covered by your insurance policy, file a comprehensive claim with your insurer and pay a deductible, which is the amount you agreed to cover out of pocket for a comprehensive claim. After that, your insurer will handle the remaining repair costs, up to the current market value of your car.

Example:

Let us take an example to understand how comprehensive plan insurance works in India. Suppose you drive a Maruti Suzuki Swift worth ₹4,00,000, with a ₹10,000 comprehensive deductible. If a cyclone destroys your car, causing ₹50,000 worth of damage, you can file a claim. You would pay the ₹10,000 deductible, and your insurer would cover the remaining ₹40,000.

What Does a Comprehensive Insurance Policy Cover

According to the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), a comprehensive policy typically covers vehicle damages caused by:

• Floods, storms, cyclones, earthquakes, hurricanes, tempests, inundations, hailstorms, frost
• Landslides, rockslides
• Fire, explosion, self-ignition, lightning
• Burglary, housebreak, theft
• Riots and strikes
• Acts of terrorism
• Malicious acts
• Transit by rail, road, inland waterways, lift, elevator or air
• Accidental external

What Doesn’t a Comprehensive Insurance Policy Cover

While comprehensive insurance offers extensive coverage, it does not cover everything. Here are some exclusions:

• The insurance policy does not cover damage caused by normal wear and tear or ageing of the vehicle, leading to consequential loss.
• If the driver is found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs in an accident, the insurance company will not pay any claim. Safe driving is a crucial social responsibility.
• Driving without a valid licence in India will invalidate comprehensive vehicle insurance.
• Damage or loss caused by uncontrollable events like nuclear attacks, mutiny, or war-like situations is not covered by the insurance policy.

Benefits of a Comprehensive Insurance Policy

Buying a comprehensive plan for your two-wheeler or four-wheeler offers several advantages, such as:

• Protection Against Damages and Losses

It shields you from financial losses due to accidental damage, theft, fire, natural disasters, and other risks.

• Freedom from Financial Liability

This insurance reduces your financial burden if your vehicle is damaged or lost due to accidents or other risks.

• Third-Party Liability Coverage

Comprehensive insurance includes coverage for legal liabilities arising from accidental injuries, death, or property damage to a third party.

• Zero Depreciation Cover

Many insurance providers offer this add-on feature that ensures you receive the full cost of repairs or replacements without factoring in depreciation, covering the entire value of replaced parts during a claim.

• No Claim Bonus (NCB) Protection

No Claim Bonus (NCB) protection rewards you for maintaining claim-free years and promoting safe driving habits.

• Consumables Cover

It is an additional feature that covers the cost of consumable items like coolant, engine oil, bolts, and nuts during repairs, which are usually not included in a standard comprehensive policy.

• Peace of Mind

With a comprehensive policy, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that a wide range of potential damages and losses to your vehicle are covered.

The Bottomline

Opting for a comprehensive insurance policy provides extensive protection for your vehicle, covering a wide range of potential damages and risks.

With additional features provided by insurers, you can customise your insurance to meet your specific needs. It ensures peace of mind and financial security, allowing you to drive with confidence and focus on enjoying the journey.