What is car insurance?

Car insurance is a legal requirement in the UK and can protect both you and any third party involved in an accident if you make a claim.  The price of car insurance will vary due to a number of factors but is important to have no matter your age or experience.

What are the benefits of car insurance?

With car insurance cover, you will have financial protection if you cause/ are involved in an accident.  Your insurer will pay to damages to the third-parties vehicle, no matter what level of cover you have chosen.  You can also make more minor claims, such as for a replacement windscreen, or for breakdown cover (if included).

Are there any additional extras?

Yes, though this will depend on your particular insurer.  Quote Detective offer a number of add-ons for your policy, including key cover, excess protection and No Claim Bonus protection.  These come at an extra cost up front, though will be beneficial to you further down the line if the situation arises.  However, some insurers may include these in the policy so it may be worth reading the details of your insurance.

What levels of cover are there?

In the UK, there are three levels of cover available.  These are:

Third party only

Third party, fire, and theft

Comprehensive cover

Third party only (TPO) cover is the most basic form of insurance available.  This will only cover damages to a third party’s vehicle, not yours if you’re involved in an accident.

Third party, fire, and theft (TPFT) cover will protect you from everything involved in TPO cover, but with the added benefit of fire and theft protection as well.  This means that if your vehicle is stolen or victim of fire damage, you will be covered by your insurance.

Comprehensive cover is the highest level of insurance in the UK.  If you are involved in an accident, your insurer will cover any third-party costs, as well as any damages to you or your vehicle.

Am I exempt from having car insurance?

This is unlikely.  Any roadworthy car is liable to pay insurance unless you have registered it to be off the road.  This is called a Statutory Off-Road Notification (SORN).  Essentially this means that the vehicle will be kept off the road, on private property at all times.  You will not be able to drive the car on public land at any point.

What are the penalties?

Driving without insurance can lead to some pretty serious and hefty fines.  This could be as much as 6 points on the licence, or even a driving ban.  It is also worth noting that this is illegal and will result in you receiving an IN10, which may affect your insurance prices in the future.

If you have any more questions, visit our website, or call us on 0333 222 4005 to speak to one of our experts!