Car insurance

Car Insurance in Ireland: Frequently Asked Questions

• What is car insurance?

  Car insurance is a type of insurance that covers the costs associated with damage to or theft of a vehicle. Car insurance also provides protection against third-party injuries and damages. It is a legal requirement in Ireland.

   

• How much does car insurance cost in Ireland?

  The cost of car insurance varies depending on a number of factors, including the make and model of the car or any other vehicle, the driver's age, and the level of cover chosen. Motorists can, on average, expect to pay around €500 per year for car insurance.

• What does car insurance cover?

  Car insurance policies vary in what they cover, but typically they will provide protection for damage to or theft of the vehicle and third-party injuries and damages. Some policies may also provide cover for costs associated with driving in Europe.

   

• What is the minimum level of car insurance coverage required in Ireland?

  In Ireland, motorists are required to have at least third-party car insurance. This type of policy provides protection for any damage or injuries caused to other people or property by the insured vehicle. Third-party car insurance is one of the cheapest types of policy available, and it is recommended that all drivers have it.

• Can I get a car insurance discount if I am a student?

  Yes, many insurers offer discounts to students. Most of the time, you need to provide proof of your student status, such as a valid student ID card.

• Can I get a car insurance discount if I have a good driving record?

  Yes, many insurers offer discounts to drivers who have a clean driving record. Most of the time, you need to offer proof of your good driving record, such as a recent driving licence or motor insurance certificate.

• I am moving to Ireland - do I need to change my car insurance policy?

  If you are moving to Ireland and will be using your car in the country, you will need to update your car insurance policy to reflect this. You can do this by contacting your chosen insurer and informing them of your move. 

   

• I am going on holiday - do I need to cancel my car insurance policy?

  If you will not be using your car while on holiday, you can cancel your car insurance policy and receive a refund. Take note that it is essential to note that you will still need to have valid car insurance in place if you plan to drive in Ireland. You can contact your insurer to arrange for a temporary policy that will cover you while you are away.

   

• My car has been stolen - what should I do?

  If your car has been stolen, you should immediately contact the police and your insurer. You will need to provide the police or authorities with a copy of your car insurance policy, and they will investigate the incident on your behalf.

• What types of car insurance are there?

  There are four main types of car insurance policy available to motorists: third-party only, third party, fire and theft, comprehensive and fully comprehensive. Each type varies in the level of protection it provides. This information is outlined below:

   

  Third-Party Only - Covers damage or injuries caused to other people by the insured vehicle.

  Third-Party - Covers damage or injuries caused to other people by the insured vehicle. 

  Fire & Theft - Covers damage due to fire and theft of the insured vehicle. 

  Comprehensive - A combination of 3rd party liability, fire and theft cover and accidental damage cover (for mechanical/structural issues).

  Fully Comprehensive - A variety of 3rd party liability, fire and theft cover, accidental damage cover (for mechanical/structural issues), and covers loss or damage to the vehicle caused by something other than an accident, e.g. vandalism or a storm.

• How do I choose the right car insurance policy for me?

  When choosing a car insurance policy, it is crucial to consider your needs and budget. The type of policy you choose depends on the level of protection you require. If you are unsure which policy is right for you, speak to your insurer for advice.

• Can I insure my car if I am not the registered keeper?

   Yes, it is best to insure a car even if you are not the registered keeper. This can be done if you are borrowing or hiring a vehicle or if you are living with the owner of the vehicle. It is important to remember that you will need to inform your insurer about this arrangement before taking out an insurance policy.

• What should I do if I am involved in an accident?

  If you are involved in an accident, you should immediately contact the police and your insurer. You will need to give the police authorities a copy of your car insurance policy, and they will investigate the incident on your behalf. It is also essential to gather as much information as possible about the accident. This includes the information of all parties involved, the time and location of the accident, and details of any damage or injuries sustained.

• I have changed my car - do I need to update my car insurance policy?

  Yes, if you have changed your car, you will need to update your car insurance policy. This can be done by contacting your trusted insurer and providing them with the new details of your vehicle. It is extremely important to remember that you should not drive a car without valid car insurance, so updating your policy as soon as possible is advisable.

   

• What is a green card, and do I need one?

  A green card is proof of car insurance, and it should be displayed on the vehicle's windscreen at all times. You can get a green card from your insurer or agent after purchasing or renewing your policy. If you don't have an active or valid insurance policy, you risk penalty points and other fines.

   

  However, Irish motorists crossing the border into Northern Ireland do not need a green card if they have a valid Irish insurance disc. This is the effect of discussions between the transport authorities in the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom, which resulted in an agreement. The insurance disc will be used by legal authorities in the United Kingdom, including Northern Ireland, as proof of insurance.

   

  We hope this article helped shed light on the most frequently asked questions about car insurance in Ireland. If you're still curious about anything, please feel free to get in touch with us, and we'll be happy to help out!