Car Insurance for Learner Drivers

A learning driving licence is issued by authorities with the temporary purpose of allowing people to learn to drive. A person holding such a licence is known as a learner driver. Moreover, the person holding this licence has to put the alphabet “L” in red on the car in such a manner that it is visible to other drivers.

A learner driver insurance policy doesn’t imply specific insurance for learner drivers. Instead, it is an insurance policy that covers a learner driver’s vehicle. Once you get your learner’s licence, you can drive on the road with your family or a driving school instructor. Not only this, but you can also buy suitable car insurance to protect your vehicle. Car insurance for new drivers is as important as it is for an expert driver. Some may argue that a newbie driver needs the protection of insurance more than a veteran.

There are more chances of an accident or car damage if the car is driven by a learner driver who lacks experience in handling the car. The situation aggravates when a new driver causes third-party damage or injuries.
According to Indian motor vehicle laws, third-party car insurance is mandatory. This car insurance policy covers financial liabilities arising from third-party injuries and damages. It makes you legally compliant while saving your hard-earned money in case of an unfortunate event. But it must be noted that third-party liability insurance fails to provide compensation if you damage your car or injure yourself.

As new drivers are at a greater risk of car damage or injury, buying comprehensive car insurance becomes crucial. Comprehensive insurance protects your car from multiple threats like natural calamities, vandalism, accidents, theft, etc. and also covers third-party liabilities. Novice drivers should also consider adding suitable riders like a key replacement or roadside assistance cover to comprehensive learner insurance.

The riders offered by most insurance companies include:

• Key replacement cover
• Engine secure
• Tyre secure
• Zero depreciation cover
• Roadside assistance cover
• Consumables expense
• Repair of fibre, glass, plastic, and rubber parts
• No Claim Bonus (NCB) protection cover
• Daily Allowance
• Emergency transport and hotel expenses
• Return to invoice
• Loss of personal belongings

You must also note that the add-on covers are available at extra costs and are not included in a basic comprehensive policy. So, opting for riders or add-ons can significantly increase the price of your four-wheeler insurance policy.

Usually, beginner drivers don’t know much about car insurance and may make inappropriate decisions while buying one. So, here are the tips to follow while buying car insurance for learner drivers:

Understand the car insurance policies available

Before opting for a learner cover, you must know about the insurance policies available. The three types of insurance policies include third-party liability cover, standalone own damage and comprehensive insurance. Know the extent of coverage under all three policies and buy the best learner driver insurance according to your car’s needs.

Know your car’s IDV

Insured Declared Value is the amount an insurance company pays if your car is stolen or damaged beyond repair. IDV also determines the premium of your motor insurance. So, knowing your car’s IDV helps you choose the most cost-effective policy. You can also calculate your car insurance premium online with the help of a car insurance premium calculator.

Compare car insurance policies online

Another crucial step before buying learner car insurance is comparing policies offered by different insurance providers. This will allow you to know the prices and extent of coverage of different policies and make an informed decision.

Avoid making minor claims

A car insurance policy offers you a No Claim Bonus for not making claims during the policy tenure. You can avail of a 50% discount on renewal for five consecutive claim-free years. When learning to drive, you may damage your car frequently. But you must remember that making claims for minor damages impacts the car insurance price on renewal. So, avoid making small claims to avail of the NCB.

Renew your car insurance policy on time

You must renew your car insurance policy within the due date for your car’s seamless protection. If you do not renew your policy within 90 days of expiry, you may lose the benefit of the No Claim Bonus.

Choose a renowned insurance provider

When buying car insurance, you must choose a renowned company having a good claim settlement ratio. Also, ensure the insurance provider has an extensive network of cashless garages for seamless and cashless claim settlement.

Car insurance is a crucial aspect of owning a car. It becomes more essential if you are a learner driver. While third-party insurance covers third-party injuries and damages, a comprehensive policy gives all-around protection to your vehicle. Buying learner driver insurance is similar to buying car insurance for experienced drivers. But the price of the insurance coverage may be higher as new drivers are likely to raise more claims and are riskier for the insurance provider.

With Tata AIG, you will get the best learner driver insurance policies that are tailored to suit your needs. The unique riders allow you to enhance your four-wheeler insurance coverage at extra costs. So, no matter whether you are a novice driver or an experienced one, buy adequate insurance coverage for your car today.