We all know we should have insurance on our cars but have no idea where to start when it comes to the types of cover. It’s really hard to tell how much is enough. We’ll start here by explaining the different types of cover you can get when choosing car insurance. There are three main types of car insurance cover as well as optional extra cover. The most basic form of cover, which everyone should have at the very least, is Third party cover. You might not care about your car, but it is guaranteed that that guy in his new top of the range Mercedez does. You definitely care about the safety and well-being of others, in which case this cover pays out for injury to your passengers, pedestrians and damage to someone else’s property – those houses that sit on blind corners constantly get hit. You could go two better on this cover and insure for fire and theft as well as third party.

If you can afford it, rather go for this than just third party because at least if your car gets stolen or catches alight you will be covered too. Failed theft attempts are covered which means if a car thief is interrupted and runs away halfway through the job, you can replace your ignition, locks, repair dents and so on that were caused by the attempted theft. “Fire?” you may ask. Fire damage doesn’t happen often but is covered because in some cases the car may have a mechanical failure and catch fire. If you live in a country where there are many riots, covering against fire is a good idea because a rioter’s favourite pastime is to set things alight. Then there’s the third category, Comprehensive insurance cover which is what we all wish we could afford. If you’re parked on a lonely street and some guy decides to do a u-turn into your car, even if he doesn’t leave his details you would still be covered. It also includes the previously mentioned cars cover but gives you that extra peace of mind. This is especially necessary if you place great value on your car and can’t bear the thought of an unsightly dent. It’s up to you to decide based on your pocket, driving ability, uncanny future predictions and the value of your car.