Third-party only is an essential legal obligation for all drivers, so it’s important to understand exactly what this type of cover does and doesn’t entail.  

Here, we’ll explore each aspect of third-party-only insurance and answer the most common questions to ensure you understand this insurance cover clearly. 

First, let’s discover what is third-party only and exactly who is (and isn’t) the third party covered by this type of insurance policy. 

What does third-party insurance mean? 

Third-party insurance is the most basic level of insurance. It’s required by law and covers damage or injury you may cause to third parties in a vehicle accident.  

This type of insurance is the minimum legal requirement for drivers to ensure other road users and pedestrians can be protected should you cause an accident or damage their property. 

Third-party coverage does not cover any damage to your vehicle, injuries, or belongings. However, it can cover your passengers even if they’ve caused the accident to occur.  

What and who are the third parties covered by insurance? 

A third party is the other person involved in an accident. In the context of auto insurance types, such as car, van and motor trade insurance, third parties covered can include: 

• Other people. 

• Their vehicles. 

• Their property. 

What does third-party insurance cover? 

In both personal car and commercial van insurance, third-party insurance offers essential protection. It covers the costs of damages or injuries caused to others due to an accident where you are at fault.  

Let’s look at an example of how third-party works, using car insurance. If your car hits another vehicle or damages someone’s property, this insurance will cover the cost of those repairs. If the other driver is injured and wants to claim compensation, third-party coverage will also pay for this. It won’t, however, cover any repairs to your car or your own personal losses. 

Does third-party-only insurance cover me if someone hits my vehicle? 

Third-party only does not cover damage to your own vehicle if someone hits you. It only covers damage or injury you cause to others.  

If another driver hits your car and they are at fault, your third-party policy won’t pay for your car’s repairs.  

Instead, you would need to make a claim from the other driver’s insurance or pay for the repairs yourself if you do not have more coverage, such as comprehensive. 

What is third-party, fire and theft cover? 

Third-party, fire, and theft insurance offers more protection than basic third-party cover.  

It covers damage you cause to others and provides coverage if your vehicle is stolen or damaged by fire.  

Does comprehensive cover include third-party cover? 

Comprehensive insurance always includes third-party cover. It also protects your vehicle against accidents, fire, theft, and more. It’s the most complete form of insurance, offering greater protection in various situations.  

The insurable events included in comprehensive policies will vary depending on your insurer. However, one common coverage element of comprehensive policies is usually glass and windscreen damage. 

Is third-party cheaper than comprehensive? 

Sometimes third-party insurance premiums are less expensive than comprehensive because it provides limited protection. For drivers looking for budget-friendly options, this can be a cost-effective choice. However, it can also leave you spending more money. With third-party only car insurance, you’re at risk of being out of pocket if you are in an accident and make it out with a hefty bill for your car’s repairs.  

However, as some insurers do not offer third-party only, you might find that they offer third-party, fire and theft, and comprehensive coverage at a more affordable price point.  

Your best bet to find cheaper car insurance is to shop around. Luckily, as a broker, we can do that for you! 

Third-party insurance at One Sure Insurance. 

It’s important to understand these cover limitations when choosing the right policy for your needs as a driver. That’s why we’re always happy to offer advice on the phone to ensure you get the policy you need at the right price.  

Whether you need to adjust your coverage, renew your car or home insurance, or even something as simple as adding another driver, you can contact us. Just call us on 08003777390 and we’ll go above and beyond to help.