Comprehensive Insurance Explained

Trying to decide on which type of car insurance policy you need and wondering if Comprehensive Car Insurance is worth it? You’ve come to the right place. In this helpful guide we’re dissecting comprehensive insurance, what it covers, the benefits included along with the costs to help you know if you need comprehensive cover for your car.  

What is Comprehensive Car Insurance?

Comprehensive car insurance is the highest level of insurance available for your car in Ireland. AIG's comprehensive policies provide cover for the costs of damages on your car, the costs of accidental damage on your car, personal accident cover and a replacement vehicle for when your car is being repaired.  

It is a higher level of cover than third party fire and theft insurance. Third party, fire and theft insurance is the lowest level of insurance offered by AIG. It covers damage to other drivers and their cars as well as damages to you or your car as a result of fire or theft.

We've put together a summary of Comprehensive Insurance vs Third Party, Fire and Theft benefits to help you decide what is the best option for you.

Do I Need Comprehensive Car Insurance?

Many drivers choose comprehensive cover for a number of reasons. This level of cover comes with a host of benefits which many feel is better suited to their needs. If you drive a newer, high value vehicle, comprehensive cover is recommended for peace of mind as most damage to your car is covered - even if you’re at fault. So while you might not need it, it’s a great choice if you can afford it.

Is Comprehensive Car Insurance Expensive?

Though most people think that comprehensive car insurance is the more expensive option, when the added benefits and levels of cover are considered it is usually better value. It’s always worth requesting a quote for comprehensive cover and comparing the quote with the other options. Saving €100 on your insurance policy for a lesser level of cover is not always the best value option.  

Can Comprehensive Car Insurance Be The Cheaper Option Sometimes?

Yes, comprehensive policies can sometimes cost less than third party fire and theft policies. This is due to a lot of high-risk drivers holding third-party cover as a way of lowering their insurance costs resulting in statistics showing a higher number of claims among third-party policies. It’s always worth checking the cost of all levels of cover.

What Are The Benefits of Comprehensive Car Insurance?

Comprehensive policies with AIG come with a host of benefits included as standard. These include:

For you as the driver:

  • Medical expenses
  • Personal accident cover
  • Emergency treatment
  • Medical advice
  • Rehabilitation
  • Step back no claims bonus protection
  • Driving of other vehicles
  • Emergency accommodation
  • Driving abroad
  • Liability cover in the event of an accident

For your car:  

  • Accidental damage
  • Car replacement
  • Car hire for up to 7 days
  • Fire brigade charges
  • Damage caused to third party property
  • Cover for personal belongings
  • Replacement locks
  • Breakdown assistance 
  • Unlimited windscreen cover
  • Cover for fire, theft or attempted theft
  • Car sharing (subject to exclusions)

Each benefit and its limitations are fully explained in the AIG policy booklet. Please consult the booklet for a full understanding of the benefits.

Can You Drive Other Cars with Comprehensive Car Insurance?

At AIG our comprehensive car insurance policyholders have the benefit of driving other cars. This benefit has some limitations which can be found in the policy booklet. You must hold a full driving licence, the vehicle must be the same engine type and size as your own, the vehicle must be in working order and you need to have permission to drive it, among other factors listed in the policy booklet.

Obtain an online car insurance quote with AIG in just minutes and choose the level of cover that suits you best. Compare car insurance costs, benefits and more at AIG and make sure that you, your car and your passengers are fully protected.  

 

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