Third Party Car Insurance

A third-party car insurance is a type of four-wheeler insurance that offers financial protection to the owner of insured car in case of injuries or damages to another person or their property. Buying at least a Third-party car insurance policy is mandatory as per The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.

Comprehensive Car Insurance

Comprehensive Car Insurance offers an extensive coverage that covers both - Third-party Liabilities and Own Damage. Buying this type of policy is not mandatory by law, however due to its enhanced coverage it is the preferred choice for many car owners.

Third Party vs Comprehensive Insurance

Here’s how Third-party car insurance stacks up
against Comprehensive car insurance.

What does it cover?

Third Party

It covers the damages caused to another individual or their property due to the insured car.

Comprehensive

In addition to third-party liability coverages, theft, damage from calamities, fire, etc. are also covered for your car.

Are Addons Available?

Only a Personal Accident Add-on is included


A number of useful Add-ons can be bought with this type. For example, Zero Depreciation, Roadside Assistance, Accessories Cover, and more.

Is the coverage adequate?

No, as the insured car is still exposed to risks.

Yes, as this is a comprehensive policy and can be customised with Add-ons.

Which is the cheapest?

This is the cheapest type of car insurance due to its low coverage. The cost of a third-party car insurance policy is fixed by IRDAI on the basis of the engine's cubic capacity of the car.

The cost of this car insurance policy is higher due to its wider coverage. The cost of this policy is fixed by the insurer as per the terms and conditions of the policy.

Thus, a Comprehensive Car Insurance cover is better than a Third-party Car insurance policy as it offers an extensive coverage that can be further customised with Add-ons. A Third-party liability policy will leave you vulnerable to risks involving damages to your own car.

Ways to Buy
Third-party or Comprehensive Car Insurance

It is very easy to get your car insurance. All you have to do is use the widget given above and follow the instructions to buy your policy online. In case of a Comprehensive policy, we may need to inspect your car before issuing a policy.  

Online

As mentioned above, all you have to do is scroll up and fill the required details to get your car insured. Select the type of policy, fill in your details, select add-ons if required, make payment, and you will receive your policy instantly via email..

Through an Agent

An insurance agent is affiliated to an insurance company and will provide the necessary application forms and other details. You will receive the policy document via post or through the agent.

By visiting the branch

Once you select the insurance company, visit their branch for getting your car insured. The representative at the help desk will guide you through the process.

Factors to consider before buying Car Insurance

A Third-party car insurance is compulsory as per The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. But a comprehensive car insurance is the smarter choice. Consider these factors before buying a car insurance policy:

Value of the car

If you have a high-value car, you could consider a Comprehensive car insurance policy. In the event of loss or damage, you need not pay the high expenses from your pocket.

Coverage

If you want to be stress-free in the event of any loss, opt for a Comprehensive policy. It covers the damage caused to your car and any possible injuries. This is in addition to the cover that a third-party policy offers.

Expense

If you do not have a high insurance budget, opt for a third-party insurance. It is cheaper than a Comprehensive car insurance. However, in the long run you may have to pay from your pocket.

Insurer

Choose an insure that provides the best price for your car insurance policy. Your insurer should also provide service that are useful in the time of need.

Glossary

In any case, be sure of going through the fine print of the policy documents carefully. At the time of claim, it will be beneficial if you are aware of the inclusions & exclusions of your car insurance policy along with the terms & conditions of the insurance company.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is buying comprehensive car insurance a smarter choice?

Buying comprehensive car insurance is a smarter choice because it offers a dual benefit of third-party coverage as well as own damage. Plus you can choose add-ons which will further enhance the scope of your insurance policy.

Can I switch from a third-party policy to a comprehensive policy on renewal?

Yes, you can change the type of your car insurance policy. Your car will be thoroughly inspected before your policy approval. So, just make sure to get those pre-existing dents on your car repaired, before inspection.

Why is comprehensive car insurance more expensive than third-party policy?

Comprehensive car insurance is more expensive than third-party policy because a third-party car insurance policy covers only the damages caused to the third party person or property. It offers the most basic coverage.

On the other hand, a comprehensive car insurance policy pays for the damages caused to your car as well as injuries caused to you, along with compensating the third-party. This extended coverage makes comprehensive car insurance more expensive than third-party policy.

What are the best add-on covers for a comprehensive car insurance policy?

The best add-on covers for a comprehensive car insurance policy are:
Zero-depreciation
NCB protector
Roadside assistance
Return to invoice
Loss of personal belongings

Buying an add-on cover totally depends on your personal requirements. So, it is very important to access them before choosing the right cover and to not overspend on car insurance.

Why is buying third-party car insurance mandatory in India?

Buying a third-party car insurance is mandatory in India because, it ensures that the third party liability, damaged/ injured in an accident involving your car, will be compensated for the loss. It covers the cost of treatments for a person injured due to your car and compensates for the loss occurred due to the damaged property.