Insurance deserves careful attention before a new car leaves the showroom. Although the dealer may arrange the policy, the buyer should decide which covers suit the vehicle, driving pattern and expected repair needs.
Choosing a ready-made package without checking its terms may lead to unsuitable protection. Reviewing the available options helps the owner select practical cover and understand how the policy responds during a claim.
1. Choose the Right Type of Policy
The first decision is whether to take only the legally required liability cover or protect the new car against damage as well. A comprehensive car insurance policy generally combines third-party liability with own damage cover.
Own damage protection may apply to insured events such as accidents, theft, fire and certain natural or human-made events, subject to policy terms. Buyers should consider the car’s value, daily use, parking arrangement and driving conditions before choosing the policy.
2. Check The Validity Of Each Cover
A dealer may arrange third party car insurance because it meets the legal requirement, but the buyer should still check how long the cover remains active. It covers legal liability for injury, death or property damage caused to another person, but does not cover damage to the insured vehicle.
The own damage portion may have a different validity period. Buyers should note the start date, expiry date and renewal schedule of each part.
3. Select a Suitable Insured Declared Value
The Insured Declared Value, or IDV, is the value considered for claims involving theft or total loss. It also influences the own damage premium. Buyers should check whether the stated figure reasonably reflects the new vehicle.
A very low IDV may reduce the premium but can also affect the amount considered during an eligible total loss claim. The figure should balance realistic vehicle value and suitable protection.
4. Decide the Deductible Amount Carefully
A deductible is the part of an admissible claim paid by the policyholder. Apart from the compulsory deductible, a buyer may be offered a voluntary deductible to lower the premium.
A higher voluntary deductible may reduce the amount paid at purchase, but it increases the owner’s contribution during a claim. Select an amount that can be managed comfortably.
5. Pick Add-Ons Based on Actual Needs
Add-ons extend protection for specific situations. They should suit the car, location and expected usage rather than be accepted as a fixed package.
| Cover Decision | What The Buyer Should Review |
| Zero Depreciation Cover | Check how depreciation on replaced parts is treated during an eligible claim. |
| Return To Invoice Cover | Understand when the cover applies in cases of theft or total loss. |
| Engine Protection Cover | Review the types of engine damage covered and the applicable conditions. |
| Roadside Assistance Cover | Check the available services, geographical limits and request process. |
| Consumables Cover | Confirm which repair items, such as oils, nuts, bolts and lubricants, are included. |
6. Review Personal Accident Protection
The owner-driver’s personal accident cover should not be treated as an automatic entry. Buyers should confirm whether it is included, whether they already hold an eligible separate cover and whether the details are correct.
When family members or hired drivers use the car, available personal accident options for occupants or paid drivers may also be considered, subject to insurer terms.
7. Check the Cashless Garage Network
A cashless claim may be useful when repairs are completed at a network garage, and the insurer settles the approved amount directly with the workshop. Buyers should check whether convenient garages are available near their home, workplace or usual routes.
The closest authorised service centre may not be in the insurer’s network. Checking this before purchase can simplify repair planning.
8. Understand the Claim Process and Verify Policy Details
Review how claims are reported, which documents are required and whether assistance is available through digital and telephone channels. Before accepting the policy, check that all vehicle and personal details are correct.
This includes the registration number, chassis and engine numbers, model, variant, fuel type, nominee details and contact information. Any mistake should be corrected before the policy is finalised.
Final Thoughts
Dealer support can simplify insurance paperwork, but the buyer should control the cover choices. Policy type, third-party duration, IDV, deductibles, add-ons, personal accident protection, garage access and claim support affect how the policy works.
Reading the schedule and wording before delivery helps the owner understand the protection and responsibilities. Coverage and claim approval remain subject to policy terms, conditions and insurer assessment.
Photo by Erik Mclean from Pexels (Free for commercial use)
Image published on October 10th, 2021
