Motorists may purchase short term cover at all cover levels, whether it be comprehensive, third party fire and theft, or third party only. Some insurers only offer cover at a certain level, however, as with those who limit their short term offerings to comprehensive cover. It varies by insurer, so it's best to check.

Comprehensive cover

Comprehensive offers motorists the most protection in the case of an accident. It provides for both third party liability and damage to a motorist's own vehicle. Comprehensive policies may also include other benefits such as 24-hour roadside assistance, windscreen cover, provision for personal belongings, among many others. It varies by insurer so motorists should investigate. Comprehensive is the most costly form of cover, but many find the added peace of mind to be worth the expense.

Third Party Fire and Theft

Third party fire and theft provides the necessary third party cover and adds cover for theft, damage from attempted theft, and damage from fire. The importance of this type is that it does cover some damage to the motorist's own vehicle, unlike third party only. Motorists should heed the exclusions, however. In certain cases, cover will be void, especially if motorists don't take reasonable precautions to protect cars from theft. The damage that third party theft and fire covers is limited, but it's better than none at all. This level of cover is the compromise between comprehensive and the basic third party only policies.

Third Party Only

The law requires third party cover, at minimum. Third party only satisfies this requirement, but may leave motorists vulnerable to significant costs in the case of an accident. Third party only covers the damage to the property and person of a third party involved in an accident, but offers no cover for the motorist's own damage. Some people may find this acceptable, banking on the notion that an accident is extremely unlikely; others are less inclined to take that risk. Third party only is usually the cheapest option. This type of cover is sometimes included in one's annual policy, allowing a motorist to drive another's car with third party cover. It's not in every policy, so motorists need to investigate; they should also note that such cover does not protect their no claims bonus in the event of an accident. For that reason alone, an additional short term policy might be a wise idea.

European Cover

Some short term policies may provide cover for driving in the EU. The legal minimum cover requirements in the EU are equivalent to those in the UK, so some cover may apply for foreign driving. If motorists plan to drive abroad, it's vital that they check, however. Though the minimums may be equivalent, that doesn't guarantee that cover will apply; insurers usually provide their EU policies online. They may also limit travel to certain countries in the EU or limit it to certain purposes – to pleasure or leisure, excluding business travel, for example. Motorists should also note that extras like roadside assistance often don't apply outside the UK. Insurers may have a different number to call in case of an accident in the EU. They may even require notice that the motorist will be travelling abroad. It varies by insurer, so it's something to be aware of when planning a trip.

Copyright © angrypossum.co.uk 2009