Comprehensive car insurance provides the insured party with cover for any loss suffered in respect of the insured’s car as well as damage suffered as a result of an accident, fire or theft. It also includes cover for third party liability claims for injury, death or damage to property. Comprehensive car insurance provides you with the broadest spectrum of cover available on the insurance market and will therefore cost more than other options.

The perils (risks) covered by comprehensive car insurance usually also include vandalism, hijacking, falling objects, storm and hail damage. Third party liability claims that are covered include injuries to third parties, (that which is not covered by the Road Accident Fund) passengers and damage to the property of third parties. Your own medical expenses and possessions lost or damaged while in your car are also included in the cover; however, limits will be capped and conditions will apply in these cases.

Even comprehensive insurance carries certain exceptions such as mechanical breakdown, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving an unroadworthy car or driving without a licence. Always check your policy to know exactly what is included as well as what is excluded (exceptions.) These policies also have added benefits such as medical assistance after an accident, roadside assistance and towing and storage. When you have a financed car it will be compulsory to have comprehensive car insurance.