A suitable car insurance policy can provide you with financial safety against third-party liabilities and vehicle damage. In India, it is also a legal requirement before you drive your car on public roads. If you have purchased a new car in 2026, the right insurance policy can help you manage unexpected expenses, and you can drive with more confidence from day one.
What are the Different Types of Car Insurance Available?
Generally, there are two main types of car insurance to consider in India. These are third-party insurance and comprehensive insurance. You can choose as per your needs and the risks you want to cover.
1. Third Party Car Insurance
It is a mandatory cover under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. It covers your legal liability for injuries, death or property damage caused to another person by your car. But you need to note that it does not cover damage to your own vehicle.
2. Comprehensive Car Insurance
Comprehensive insurance is a combination of third-party liability cover and protection against damage to your own vehicle. This policy can cover accidents, fire, theft, floods and other specified events according to the policy terms.
For a new car, this option offers more financial protection. If you are exploring different options, then you can choose from a trusted insurance provider like Bajaj General Insurance.
What is Included in a Standard Car Insurance Policy?
A car insurance policy can protect you from various risks based on the plan you select. If you select a policy from a reliable insurance provider like Bajaj General Insurance, then you can expect the following benefits in your policy.
1. Third-Party Liability Cover
Online third-party car insurance covers your legal liability for bodily injury, death or property damage caused to a third party. Also, it is a mandatory component of motor insurance in India.
2. Own Damage Cover
Own damage cover pays you for covered damage to your car because of accidents, collisions or other insured events. You can get this cover in comprehensive as well as in standalone own-damage policies.
3. Natural and Man-Made Disasters
Bajaj General Insurance offers protection to your vehicle which may be caused by floods, storms, earthquakes, fire, riots and vandalism. You need to check the policy wording to check any specific inclusions.
4. Theft Protection
If somebody steals your car, then the insurer pays compensation. The compensation is based on the applicable insured declared value (IDV). This can reduce your financial loss.
5. In Transit Damage Cover
This cover can help you protect your vehicle against specified damage during transportation. It may be useful if your new car travels from the dealership or factory to another location.
6. Personal Accident Cover
If your policy offers personal accident cover, then you will get financial compensation for specified injuries, permanent disability or death due to an accident. It is subject to the policy terms.
What are the Car Insurance Add-ons You Can Consider?
If you choose suitable add-ons along with your car insurance policy, then it can extend the protection available under an eligible base policy. Add-ons can increase your premium, so it is recommended to choose according to your requirements and budget.
1. 24×7 Roadside Assistance
This cover can help with emergencies such as breakdowns, flat tyres, battery issues and towing. It can be useful for you if you often travel long distances.
2. Zero Depreciation Cover
This add-on reduces depreciation deductions on eligible replaced parts during your claim. It can help you lower your out-of-pocket repair expenses. However, limits and exclusions may apply.
4. Tyre Safeguard
If you choose tyre safeguard, it can cover your eligible tyre or tube damage under specified circumstances.
5. Engine Protector
Engine protection can cover certain engine-related losses. For example, it can cover damage because of water ingress or lubricant leakage.
Final Words
Buying new car insurance is an essential step before your first drive. But before you choose a policy, you should compare premiums, policy exclusions, deductibles and claim conditions.
Also, you need to keep your policy documents, registration certificate and driving licence easily accessible. If you have the right car insurance policy, it can provide you with peace of mind.
