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Created on:

15 May 2025

Last Updated on:

15 May 2025

Explore liability-only motor insurance—what it covers, what it doesn't, and who it's best suited for. Learn if this cost-effective policy meets your needs.

What is liability-only insurance cover in motor insurance?

There are several insurance choices for protecting your car, each meant to fit different budgets and requirements. Liability-only insurance is among such choices. You are in the right place if you are wondering whether liability-only insurance is the best fit for your car. We will discuss liability-only insurance coverage in this blog, including its features and why you would pick it over other forms of automobile insurance.

Describes liability-only insurance coverage

Liability-only insurance coverage is, all things considered, the most fundamental type of auto insurance. It provides coverage if you are found responsible for an accident that causes damage to others or their property. Liability-only coverage does not cover damages to your car, unlike more all-encompassing insurance. This feature implies that, should you be in an accident and find it your responsibility, the coverage will pay for damage to others but not for automobile repairs.

Liability insurance basically serves as a financial barrier against the expenses resulting from someone else's injury or property damage in a traffic accident for which you are at fault.

Coverage of liability-only insurance:

Usually, a car insurance policy addresses two essential elements:

●        Bodily injury liability: If you're at fault in an accident that causes injury to others, this coverage helps pay for their related expenses, such as medical bills. It ensures that the injured party receives necessary medical treatment. Additionally, if they decide to sue you, it also covers your legal costs, including attorney fees.

●        Property damage liability: You accidentally damage another person's automobile, a fence, a wall, or even a shopfront, this covers the repair or replacement expenses for that property. Essentially, it assists in covering the repair costs for any property for which you are legally responsible for damages.

The core of liability insurance is these two main elements, which assist in shielding you from perhaps costly medical and legal expenses should an accident occur and you are at fault.

What coverage is not found in liability-only insurance?

While it is cost-effective, liability-only insurance comes with several restrictions. Here are some items it does not address:

●        Damage to your vehicle: If you get in an accident, your liability insurance will not cover vehicle repairs. You would thus need a thorough or outside fire and theft policy.

●        Personal injuries: Liability-only insurance will not cover your medical bills should you be at fault for an accident. For personal injuries, you would rely on your health insurance or other kinds of coverage.

●        Liability insurance does not provide coverage for theft or vandalism damage to your car. For these hazards, one would need comprehensive car insurance.

●        Natural disaster or acts of god: Liability insurance will not cover repairs should a natural disaster like a flood, earthquake, or hailstorm damage your car. Such situations would be covered by comprehensive insurance.

Who should think about getting liability-only insurance?

Some types of car owners, especially those who want basic security at a low cost, should get liability-only insurance. Liability-only coverage is appropriate in the following situations:

●        Used cars: Comprehensive insurance might not be worth the money if you have an old car that isn't valued much on the market. Liability-only insurance might be a better deal in this case because the cost of repairs could exceed the car's value.

●        Drivers with low risk: If you drive carefully and have a clean record, liability-only insurance might be a beneficial choice. You might be pleased with the basic coverage because you don't plan to file claims very often.

●        Drivers on a tight budget: If you are ready to take some risks and have a small budget, liability-only insurance is usually much cheaper than comprehensive coverage. This type of coverage will help you meet the legal requirements for auto insurance without going broke.

How might liability-only insurance be different from other types of insurance?

The least expensive choice is liability-only insurance, but it only covers the basics. If you want to see how well it works compared to other types of covering, here it is: It's clear that liability-only insurance is the cheapest choice, but it doesn't cover as much as comprehensive insurance does. Should you want to feel safer, you might want to change your plan.

Coverage Type

What It Covers

Cost

Liability-only insurance

Covers damages to others (bodily injury and property damage) when you’re at fault.

Lowest

Comprehensive insurance

Covers damages to your car and others', including theft, fire, vandalism, natural disasters, and personal injury.

Higher

Thirdy-party fire & theft

Covers damage to others and your car in case of fire or theft.

Moderate

Would liability-only insurance be sufficient for you?

The choice to get liability-only insurance finally rests with your unique situation. Since comprehensive coverage provides additional protection, if you have a pricier or newer car, it could be more appropriate. Conversely, if you have an older car and are at ease with the risk, liability-only insurance can offer the minimum protection you require at less expense.

Liability-only insurance offers drivers who wish to meet legal requirements for auto insurance while keeping reasonable rates a beneficial option. It covers damage to others and their property if you're at fault, but not your car or injuries. You might want to look at other kinds of coverage if you wish for a more thorough defence.

Before you make decisions, consider the value of your automobile, how you drive, and your budget. Always be sure you realise the degree of coverage you need and have a policy appropriate for your lifestyle. If you're unsure of the best course of action, consult an insurance expert.

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Team Zurich Kotak GIC

The content of this blog has been created and carefully reviewed by the esteemed team at Zurich Kotak General Insurance, with the sole purpose of providing valuable guidance and sharing insights on the importance of general insurance. Our objective is to assist users in making informed decisions when purchasing or renewing insurance policies for their cars, bikes, and health. Our expertly curated information aims to empower our readers with the knowledge they need to protect their valuable assets and financial interests.

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