With so many types of car insurance available, from third party insurance to comprehensive insurance, it’s important to understand what each policy covers and how it fits your needs. There are different types of car insurance policies designed to suit various requirements, so choosing the right one is essential. When selecting a car insurance policy, remember that motor insurance is a legal requirement for drivers and provides protection for different types of cars.

While there are different levels of car insurance, here at its4women, we provide Comprehensive cover to all our policies. 

Introduction to Car Insurance 

Car insurance is not just a smart financial decision—it’s a legal requirement for anyone who drives a car. A car insurance policy is designed to protect you, your vehicle, and other road users from the financial consequences of accidents, theft, or damage. With so many types of car insurance available, from third party insurance to comprehensive insurance, it’s important to understand what each policy covers and how it fits your needs. Insurance cover can vary widely between insurance providers, so comparing car insurance quotes is essential to find the right policy options for your budget and lifestyle. Whether you’re insuring a new car or renewing your existing policy, knowing the basics of car insurance, the legal requirement for cover, and the factors that affect your insurance premium will help you make an informed choice. 

Types of Car Insurance Cover 

When it comes to car insurance, there are three main types of cover to consider: third party insurance, third party fire and theft, and comprehensive insurance. Third party car insurance is the minimum level of cover required by law, and it protects you against damage or injury you cause to other people, their vehicles, or property—but it won’t cover damage to your own vehicle. Third party fire and theft insurance builds on this by also covering your own vehicle if it’s stolen or damaged by fire, giving you extra peace of mind. Comprehensive insurance is the most complete option, covering damage to your own car as well as third party claims, regardless of who is at fault. Each insurance policy comes with its own benefits and costs, so it’s important to compare car insurance quotes from different insurers to find the right balance of cover and premium for your needs. 

Remember, the type of car you drive and the level of cover you choose can have a big impact on your insurance costs. 

What is Third Party, Fire & Theft insurance? 

 
Third party, fire and theft car insurance is a mid-level policy that offers more protection than third party cover alone, but less than fully comprehensive insurance. It typically covers damage to other people’s vehicles or property if you're involved in an accident, and also protects your own vehicle in the event of fire damage or theft. However, it won’t cover the cost of repairs to your own car after an accident, even if it wasn’t your fault. 

Please note that its4women does not currently offer third party, fire and theft cover. 

What is comprehensive insurance? 

Comprehensive car insurance, also known as ‘fully comp’, is the top level of private car insurance you can get. Comprehensive insurance is often recommended for a new vehicle due to its higher value and the need for optimal protection. If you have comprehensive car insurance and are involved in an accident, you are covered for severe damage to yourself, your car as well as compensating a third party – even if you were at fault. It also covers you for theft and fire damage. Comprehensive insurance typically covers accidental damage to your vehicle, regardless of fault. 

Why choose comprehensive cover?  

A comprehensive car insurance policy gives you peace of mind and means you are eligible to make a claim whether the accident was your fault or not. 

You can also make a claim if you have discovered damage to your car but can’t prove whose fault it was, such as in a public car park or when parked on the street. 

However, making a claim on your comprehensive policy may affect your no claims discount plus you may be eligible to pay an excess, so it's important to consider this before claiming for minor damage. 

What does its4women comprehensive car insurance cover? 

While a typical comprehensive car insurance policy will cover damage to your vehicle, as well as third-party property, in the event of an accident, some policies can vary a lot in terms of the additional cover they include. At its4women we offer three comprehensive car insurance products to suit your needs: Premier Plus, Premier and Telematics. When comparing these products, it's important to check if they provide the level of cover you require, as features and benefits may differ between policies and  each policy may also include a compulsory excess, which is the amount you must pay towards any claim as set by the insurer. Optional extras such as protected no claims bonus can be added to further enhance your protection. 

What does a comprehensive policy NOT COVER? 

While comprehensive car insurance is the highest level of cover, there are a few things not covered. Here’s a round up of what is not included: 

1. The death of or bodily injury to any person driving the insured car, or in charge of it for the purpose of driving it. 

2. Any accident, injury, loss, damage or liability which happens if any vehicle shown in the insurance certificate is, at the time of the accident, being driven or used other than as allowed under the terms of the insurance certificate. 

3. Damage or liability arising from war or terrorism. 

4. If the insured person has cover for the liability under another policy. 

5. Loss of use, wear and tear, mechanical, electrical or electronic breakdown, damage to tyres by braking, punctures, cuts or bursts. 

6. Loss of or damage to the insured car where the driver of your car is under the influence of alcohol or drugs or in breach of licence conditions. 

7. Any loss of or damage to the car, which does not arise from an accidental, sudden or unforeseen cause. 

8. Loss or damage resulting from attempted theft may not be covered, depending on the terms of your policy. 

9. Loss of personal money left in the car is not covered by the policy. 

Factors Affecting Your Car Insurance Premium 

The cost of your car insurance premium is influenced by a range of factors. Age and driving experience play a big role—young drivers or unexperienced drivers, are often seen as higher risk and may face higher premiums. The type of car you drive, where you live, and your claims history can also affect how much you pay. The number of years you have no-claims bonus in your own name may also affect your premium.  

Adding named drivers to your policy or choosing a higher voluntary excess can change your premium, sometimes lowering the cost if the risk is shared or you agree to pay more towards a claim. The level of cover you select—whether it’s third party insurance or comprehensive insurance—will also impact your insurance premium, with more extensive cover usually costing more. Understanding these factors can help you make smart choices when comparing insurance policies and looking for ways to save on your car insurance. 

Optional Extras for Your Policy 

Not all policies offer the same cover, it is important to tailor your car insurance policy to your needs. Many insurers offer optional extras that provide added protection and convenience. Popular options include windscreen cover, which pays for repairs or replacement if your windscreen is damaged, and rental vehicle cover, which ensures you have a car to drive if yours is off the road. A courtesy car can keep you mobile while your own vehicle is being repaired, and a recovery service can help if you break down. While these extras can give you greater peace of mind, they may also increase the cost of your insurance premium. It’s important to review the policy options available and decide which extras are worth the added cost. 

Making a Claim 

If you’re involved in an accident or your car is stolen, making a claim on your car insurance policy is a straightforward process when you know what to do. Start by gathering all the necessary details, such as the date, time, and location of the incident, and the contact information of any other parties or witnesses involved. You’ll also need to provide proof of ownership and any relevant documents requested by your insurer. Once you’ve reported the incident, your insurance provider will guide you through the next steps and assess your claim. Understanding your insurance policy and the claims process can help ensure everything goes smoothly, so you can get back on the road as soon as possible.