Motor insurance can include several different types of protection. The exact coverage depends on the insurer, policy type, vehicle, country and selected level of protection.
Two motor insurance policies with a similar annual premium can still have important differences in coverage limits, deductibles, exclusions and additional benefits.
1. Third-party liability
Third-party liability insurance generally covers legal liability for injury or property damage caused to other people when the insured driver is responsible for an accident.
In many jurisdictions, some level of motor liability insurance is required by law. Requirements and minimum limits vary by country.
2. Damage to your own vehicle
Depending on the policy, coverage may also apply to accidental damage to the insured vehicle.
This type of protection may cover damage following a collision, subject to the policy terms, deductible and exclusions.
3. Comprehensive coverage
Comprehensive motor insurance may provide broader protection than basic liability coverage.
Depending on the insurer and policy, this may include risks such as theft, fire, vandalism, weather-related damage, falling objects and other insured events.
4. Deductible or excess
A deductible, sometimes called an excess, is the amount the insured person may need to pay toward a covered claim before the insurer pays the remaining eligible amount.
A policy with a lower premium may sometimes have a higher deductible, so comparing only the annual price can be misleading.
5. Glass and windscreen cover
Some motor insurance policies include separate coverage for damage to the windscreen, windows or other vehicle glass.
There may be a specific limit, deductible or number of claims allowed during the policy period.
6. Theft protection
Depending on the policy, theft coverage may provide financial protection if the insured vehicle is stolen or damaged during an attempted theft.
Conditions may apply regarding vehicle security systems, keys, parking locations and police reporting.
7. Fire damage
Some policies provide protection against damage caused by fire, explosion or related insured events.
Coverage limits and exclusions should always be checked in the policy wording.
8. Roadside assistance
Roadside assistance may be included automatically or offered as an optional benefit.
Depending on the product, it may include towing, battery assistance, tyre support, emergency fuel delivery or help following a breakdown.
9. Replacement vehicle
Some motor policies may provide a temporary replacement vehicle while the insured vehicle is being repaired following an eligible claim.
The maximum number of days and vehicle category may differ between insurance products.
10. Personal accident cover
Some motor insurance products may include or optionally offer personal accident benefits for the driver or passengers.
Coverage conditions, insured persons and maximum benefits vary by policy.
What may not be covered?
Motor insurance policies contain exclusions and conditions. Depending on the policy, examples may include:
- Driving without a valid licence.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances.
- Intentional damage.
- Use of the vehicle outside permitted purposes.
- Unapproved or undeclared vehicle modifications.
- Normal wear and tear or mechanical failure.
- Damage outside the insured geographical territory.
- Claims exceeding policy limits.
What information can affect motor insurance?
Insurers may consider a range of information when assessing a motor insurance request, depending on the local market and applicable rules.
- Vehicle make and model.
- Year of manufacture.
- Engine size or power.
- Fuel type.
- Vehicle value.
- Vehicle usage.
- Driver information.
- Claims history.
- Location.
- Requested coverage level.
How to compare two motor insurance policies
The annual premium is only one part of a motor insurance comparison. A factual comparison can also look at the following:
| Feature | What to compare |
|---|---|
| Annual premium | Total yearly price |
| Liability | Coverage limits for third-party claims |
| Own vehicle damage | Whether damage to the insured vehicle is covered |
| Deductible | Amount the customer may pay toward a covered claim |
| Glass | Windscreen and window coverage and limits |
| Theft | Whether theft or attempted theft is included |
| Fire | Whether fire damage is included |
| Roadside assistance | Included services and geographical limits |
| Replacement vehicle | Availability and maximum number of days |
| Territory | Countries where the policy is valid |
| Exclusions | Situations and events not covered |
Example of a factual comparison
Imagine two motor insurance policies both cost €450 per year.
| Feature | Current policy | Alternative policy | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual premium | €450 | €450 | Same |
| Deductible | €500 | €300 | Lower |
| Glass cover | Not included | Included | Added |
| Roadside assistance | Not included | Included | Added |
| Theft cover | Included | Included | Same |
In this example, the annual premium is the same, but the coverage is not identical. The second policy has additional benefits and a lower deductible.
This does not automatically mean that one policy is suitable for every customer. It simply shows the factual differences between the two sets of terms.
Before submitting a motor insurance request
Having the following information ready can make the process easier:
- Vehicle make and model.
- Year of manufacture.
- Fuel type.
- Engine power or capacity.
- Estimated vehicle value.
- Current insurer, if applicable.
- Current annual premium, if known.
- Current deductible, if known.
- Existing policy document, if available.
Looking for motor insurance?
Enter your vehicle information manually or upload an existing policy and submit your request to relevant licensed insurance partners.