Insurance - Are You Covered

6 months ago 16th May 14:34

Insurance Cover - Know Your Policy

More exceptions

There are extra exceptions which won’t cover you, including acts of war and natural disasters. Insurance companies won’t pay out if your car is damaged as the result of the following:

* Acts of war, including invasions, civil war, revolution and military power
* Acts of terrorism
* Riots or civil commotion outside the UK
* Earthquakes
* Radioactivity - whether its contamination from nuclear waste or dangerous properties of nuclear equipment
* Pollution
* If your car is on an airfield when the damage takes place

You will be covered for damage from fire, lightning and explosions if you have chosen third party fire and theft as your policy.

Glass damage

Make sure your car’s windows and sunroof are covered in the event of an accident - ask your insurance company.

Windscreen damage is usually covered with a fully comprehensive policy only. You may not be covered for glass which is tinted or part of a convertible car's roof.

Some repairers won’t be approved by your insurance firm, so you may not be covered or you might have to pay an excess fee depending on the damage - again, it’s vital to check beforehand.

Types of cover

Insurance cover generally falls into three main categories:

1. Third party only

As the minimum legal requirement, this covers any damage made to other drivers’ vehicles. It doesn’t cover damage made to your own vehicle, or theft, but it’s ideal for older cars with low value, since it’s the cheapest option available.

2. Third party fire and theft

As well as offering basic third party insurance, this will also cover your car if stolen or damaged by fire. However it’s more expensive than third party cover.

3. Comprehensive (or fully comp)

Your car is fully protected if damaged in an accident with another vehicle, and third party fire and theft is inclusive. It’s the safest but most expensive insurance type, and a good choice for rare and valuable cars.

What to say when seeking a quote

It’s important to give the correct information to the insurance company when getting a quote. If you state certain aspects incorrectly, this could nullify your cover. Remember to:

1. State your car’s annual mileage.
2. List items of value inside your car - including radio, sat nav and CD players.
3. Let your insurance company know if you’re about to make any modifications or additions to your car. If it gets damaged after you made the changes but before you’ve told them, your car won’t be fully covered.

Search for more than 300 insurance quotes in less than four minutes - visit Auto Trader’s Car Insurance Centre or call 0800 316 8181.

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