Long-distance travel in a car does present great enjoyment but it can be risky. It is imperative to prioritize your safety during the trip. You can invest in a suitable car insurance that offers add-ons that includes coverage to fulfill your needs. A decent car insurance policy will provide coverage when you encounter issues like accidents, a tire blows out, a dead battery, loss of personal belongings, etc. Long-distance travel involves spending more time on the road, so there are more chances of encountering car troubles. The present article familiarizes you with choosing car insurance for travel, insurance add-ons that help during long-distance travel, and more relevant aspects.
Understanding Car Insurance For Long-Distance Travel
The corresponding car insurance policy is designed to provide enough coverage for individuals on extended trips. The coverage for long-distance travel often ranges from 6 months to 1 year. So, during the policy’s tenure, you can go on a single long or multiple trips. Let’s now get familiar with various car insurance add-ons for long-distance travel.
Various Car Insurance Add-Ons
Table of Contents
Roadside Assistance Cover:
Vehicle breakdown may happen if you head on a long journey. The aforementioned cover assists during scenarios like tire(s) blowout, ineffective battery, or limited fuel. Moreover, it supports emergency services like towing and also includes repair expenses.
Chiefly, this add-on is valuable for individuals who frequently travel for long distances or reside in remote regions where it is arduous to get immediate assistance.
Engine Protection Cover:
It is valuable for varied road risk conditions. Two of the most expensive car components are the gearbox and engine. A standard car insurance policy doesn’t cover these parts. However, with an engine protection cover, these components stay protected against external damages like accidents, oil leakage, or water ingress.
This add-on in car insurance for travel is recommended for those who drive in flooded areas. It also benefits luxury or high-performance car owners because repair costs in such cars are expensive.
Loss of Personal Belongings Cover:
During long-distance travel, you may carry laptops, phones, bags, etc. Such items are susceptible to damage or theft during accidents or roadside hassles. The ‘Loss of Personal Belongings Cover’ recovers the cost of such items.
Standard car insurance doesn’t usually cover the personal items inside your car. But this add-on makes sure your valuable belongings stay protected during car damage or theft on the road.
Zero Depreciation Cover:
Zero depreciation cover is one of the most demanding insurance add-ons for long-distance travel. Depreciation means a car’s value is lost over time due to age and wear and tear. The claim settlement amount under a standard car insurance policy is subject to a depreciation deduction. The aforementioned add-on eliminates this deduction and lets you obtain the full claim amount (aligning with the car’s current value).
It is very beneficial for new cars since their value swiftly depreciates in the initial years. Remember to choose a trustworthy car insurance company to avoid any issues later.
Passenger Cover:
The add-on reimburses medical expenses for passengers owing to accidents during long-distance travel. For family road trips, it is quite beneficial. Note that the coverage premium may differ as per the car type, the insurance provider, etc. It covers hospitalization, treatments, surgery, and post-accident therapy expenses for wounded passengers.
Outstation Emergency Cover:
It provides coverage for emergencies that arise over 100 km from your residence. It supports repair and towing services (to help reach the car to a workshop). ‘Outstation Emergency Cover’ is one of the best insurance add-ons for long-distance travel for those who demand extra protection and ease during unexpected circumstances on the road.
Factors Long-Distance Travellers Can Consider While Buying A Car Insurance Policy
You must compare car insurance policies by considering the factors below and then proceed with the purchase.
Coverage Tenure:
Ascertain that the policy covers the full duration of your specific trip.
Medical Coverage:
Review the medical coverage limits and coverage you will get for hospital stay, medical evacuation, and emergency medical treatment.
Stolen or Lost Belongings:
Look for coverage for lost or stolen belongings. Also, check whether it supports enough reimbursement limits.
Refund For Cancellation:
It is advisable to look for a car insurance policy capable of providing a refund for issues like trip delays or cancellation. Such issues may arise due to injury, sickness, or calamities. Such issues may happen during long-distance travel, and you may have to cancel the trip. Check the reimbursement limits for non-refundable expenses.
Delays During Trip:
Check whether the car insurance for travel you choose covers travel delays. You will need compensation for additional expenses caused by missing flights or trip delays.
Other Considerations:
- Ensure the policy supports 24×7 emergency assistance services so that you get instant support during emergencies.
- Consult with your car insurance company and read the policy details carefully to learn about any limitations, exclusions, or conditions that may impact your coverage.
Significance Of Buying A Car Insurance For Long-Distance Travel
Long-distance traveling may involve unforeseen risks that can severely affect your travel plans. Car insurance with add-ons, as discussed above, provides significant protection against unexpected circumstances during the journey. Some essential points justify buying a car insurance policy for long-distance trips.
Financial Coverage:
You may get injured, encounter theft of your personal belongings, or have to rebook a missed flight. Such scenarios incur extra expenses in addition to the cost of your trip. The financial coverage for long-distance travel ensures you don’t ruin your finances or trip due to unforeseen circumstances.
Helps In Medical Emergencies:
Falling sick is common during long-distance trips. The contributing factors are unpredictable weather conditions, diet changes, etc. You may also encounter some injuries during long trips. The injury pain and the corresponding cost of treatment can be challenging to tolerate. As discussed above, a car insurance policy with enough add-ons covers hospital stays, medical expenses, and emergency medical evacuations. So you don’t face financial burdens during your trip. Remember that claim amounts are subject to terms and conditions specified in your car insurance policy.
Compensation During Travel Delays:
During your long-distance journey, you may have to board multiple flights and make transportation arrangements. Missed connecting flights or flight cancellations may lead to travel delays. You can check with your insurance provider to see whether the policy offers compensation for additional expenses like meals and accommodations.
Coverage For Theft Of Belongings:
Loss/theft of baggage and belongings may happen during your long-distance trip. A car insurance policy that supports ‘Loss of Personal Belongings Cover’ can prove advantageous. It offers financial coverage for long-distance travel to cover losses.
Conclusion
Car insurance policies for long-distance travel usually cover aspects like roadside assistance, theft of belongings, trip cancellation, medical emergencies, etc., as discussed above. Certain policies also cover high-risk activities and repatriation in case of injury or severe illness. They provide significant financial protection against unexpected circumstances during your journey. Choosing a suitable policy from a reliable car insurance company is recommended to justify your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is car insurance advantageous to long-distance travelers?
Yes, car insurance benefits expatriates, frequent travelers, long-term vacationers, and professionals who travel worldwide. It offers comprehensive protection for several trips over a long period.
What time is the most recommended to purchase long-distance car travel insurance?
The best time to buy car travel insurance for long-distance trips is when a holiday is booked. The cancellation cover will begin instantly so policyholders can claim if an emergency holds them from escaping.
Are passengers covered under such type of car insurance?
The regular car insurance policy only covers the owner-driver under the mandatory Personal Accident cover. But you can also get a ‘Passenger Cover’ add-on to insure car passengers. If you have a brand-new car, there are fewer chances of faults, so you can decide to exclude this cover.