What is comprehensive car insurance?

Imagine you’ve just bought a brand-new car. Whether you’re on your way to work, embarking on a weekend adventure, or simply running errands, the steering wheel in your hands represents a world of possibilities. In these moments behind the wheel, your focus should be on the open road, not on unforeseen obstacles.

Life may be full of surprises, but comprehensive car insurance allows you to stay in control. It’s more than just coverage, it’s your partner in every journey, ensuring that you can continue to embrace the joy of the road, secure in the knowledge that you’re prepared for whatever lies ahead. Your car isn’t just a means of transportation, it’s a gateway to unforgettable experiences. And with comprehensive car insurance, those experiences can be as worry-free as they are exhilarating.

1. Accidents

Damages to your vehicle in the event of an accident.
Example: If your car is rear-ended at a stoplight, resulting in a dented rear bumper and a broken tail light, don’t worry. Your insurance will cover the repair costs.

2. Personal injuries

Bodily injuries you may sustain in a car accident.
Example: If you suffer a broken bone in a car accident comprehensive car insurance will cover your injury with limits set by the State of Qatar.

3. Third-party liability

Damages you may cause to others in an accident.
Example: If you’re at fault in a fender bender and need to compensate the other party for damages to their grille and headlights, your comprehensive car insurance will cover the liability, so you won’t have to pay out of your pocket.

4. Theft

Losses incurred if your car is stolen.
Example: If your cherished vehicle is stolen, and law enforcement is unable to recover it, you can rest easy knowing your insurer will reimburse the cost.

5. Fire

Losses resulting from a fire-related accident.
Example: Whether it’s a faulty hose or an electrical issue that leads to your vehicle catching fire, your comprehensive car insurance will cover the cost of repairs.

6. Vandalism

Damages caused by acts of vandalism.
Example: If your car’s windows are smashed during a political rally turned violent, your insurance will cover the cost of replacement.

• Illegal driving: an accident caused by traffic rules violation or DUI. If you get into an accident while driving drunk or otherwise ignoring traffic rules, unfortunately, it’s not covered by insurance.

• Self-inflicted damage: intentional self-inflicted damage to make an insurance claim. Some people deliberately damage their cars to make a claim and get compensation. Such a practice is illegal and, naturally, will only land them in hot water.

• Depreciation: decrease in the vehicle’s value over time. The value of your car since the moment you bought it is gradually going down due to its use. It’s a normal thing, and insurance doesn’t pay for this.

• Natural disasters: damages caused by natural disasters and extreme weather. For example, if your car is abraded by a sandstorm or damaged in a flood, unfortunately, it’s not covered by Comprehensive insurance.

• Electrical & mechanical breakdown: technical failures not related to an accident. Similar to depreciation, Comprehensive insurance doesn’t pay for breakdowns that will happen to your car in the natural course of life.

When deciding on the right comprehensive car insurance plan and considering any additional features, it’s essential to weigh several factors. These considerations will help you tailor your insurance to your specific needs:

1. Your vehicle’s age and condition

Begin by assessing the age and condition of your car. Is it a new or older vehicle? The state of your vehicle can influence your insurance choices.

2. Your driving experience and habits

Reflect on your driving experience and habits. Consider how often you drive and whether you frequently navigate busy, densely populated areas.

3. Emergency preparedness

It’s crucial to have a plan in place for unexpected events. Consider how you’ll handle emergencies such as a sudden breakdown in the middle of nowhere.

4. Replacement vehicle needs

In case your car is undergoing repairs, think about how you’ll manage your transportation needs during that period. Some insurance plans provide replacement vehicles.

5. Off-road or unpaved roads

If your driving ventures often take you off-road or on unpaved roads, consider whether your insurance covers accidents that may occur in such conditions.

6. Total loss protection

If you’ve financed your car with a loan, and you still owe money to the bank, assess whether your insurance provides adequate protection in case of a «total loss» incident.

7. Additional policy features: 

Explore available policy add-ons to enhance your comprehensive car insurance. These can include:

• Agency Repairs — coverage for repairs, typically conducted at insurer-affiliated shops, often at no extra cost.

• Replacement car- access to a temporary replacement vehicle when your car is undergoing repairs.

• Off-road cover — protection against accidents on rough terrain, access roads, and unpaved paths.

• Personal accident benefit — provides additional coverage to the driver and the passengers, in case of accidental death or disability.

• Roadside assistance — assistance for roadside incidents, including towing, jump-starts, tire changes, and fuel delivery.

• Gap insurance — ensuring you get paid the financial difference between the original purchase price and the total claim payment in the event of total loss of your car.

8. Claims assistance 

Evaluate whether the insurer offers support with paperwork and the claims process, making it more convenient for you.

9. Personal driver

Consider whether you need a service that includes tasks such as driving your car to the repair shop and managing paperwork with traffic authorities.

In the event of a traffic accident involving your car, here’s how comprehensive car insurance comes into play:

1. Immediate actions

First and foremost, contact the police and call for an ambulance if there are injuries. Lastly, get in touch with your insurance company without delay.

2. Documenting the scene

You can enhance the claims process by taking photographs of the accident scene. These images help assess the extent of the damage.

3. Assessment of compensation

The insurance company will evaluate the compensation you are eligible to receive based on the damage incurred. If the accident isn’t a result of a blatant violation of traffic rules, you will be compensated in one of two ways:

•    For repair costs, minus your deductible (an amount you agreed to pay out of your pocket).
•    In the case of severe vehicle damage that can’t be repaired, your car is declared a «total loss.» You will receive compensation based on the insured value after deducting the proportionate depreciation from the policy start date until the accident date. 

4. Considering «gap cover»

It’s essential to note that the agreed compensation, known as the «insured value,» may be less than the actual purchase price, especially if you financed your car with a loan. In such cases, it’s advisable to strengthen your insurance with «Gap Cover.» This ensures you get compensated for the difference between the original cash purchase price and the total loss claim payment.

5. Limitations on unpaved roads

Standard comprehensive packages typically do not cover damages incurred on unpaved roads. Keep this in mind if you frequently drive in such conditions.

6. Coverage for injuries and liabilities

If you’ve been injured in the accident, comprehensive car insurance will cover your injuries in accordance with Qatari regulations. Moreover, if the accident is your fault, the insurance will also cover your liabilities, including injuries to the other driver and damage to their car.

7. Simplified claims process 

In the case of QIC insurance, the claims process is streamlined and straightforward. You can notify us and submit all the necessary documents online, and we will guide you through the rest of the process. 

While third-party liability insurance is the minimum legal requirement for driving in Qatar, the decision to purchase comprehensive insurance is entirely up to you. Consider factors such as your car’s value, the likelihood of accidents, theft, or vandalism, and make an informed choice. Regardless of your decision, QIC is here to assist you every step of the way.