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Created on:

04 Apr 2025

Last Updated on:

04 Apr 2025

Discover how one-day car insurance works, who it’s for, and when to use it. A flexible, legal, and affordable way to stay protected for just 24 hours.

What you need to know about one-day car insurance

Most people think of car insurance as a long-term financial investment that lasts at least a year.  What if you only need one day of cover, though? One-day car insurance is a flexible and easy way to cover your car for a short time, which is something that regular plans don't always allow.

One-day car insurance could be the short-term safety net you didn't know you needed when you take a friend's car, test-drive a new car, or plan a one-day road trip. Here, we explain what one-day car insurance is, how it works, who should think about getting it, and when it makes sense.

What is car insurance for one day?

One-day car insurance is a type of short-term auto insurance that gives you all the basic protection you'd expect from a regular contract but only for 24 hours. It usually covers third-party liability and may also cover your own damage, based on what the insurance company offers.

This type of insurance is most popular in countries with more developed insurance markets. However, it is also becoming more popular in India, especially among drivers in cities who want more options and lower costs.

Long-term policies lock you in for a year, but this type of coverage is made to meet a specific, instant need. This helps drivers stay in line with the law without having to pay for a length of time that they don't need to.

Why do you need one day of car insurance?

There are many times when one-day car insurance is exactly what you need. In the following situations

●       If you borrow a friend or family member's car for the day, make sure you have temporary insurance in case of an accident or damage.

●       Test drives, also called "trial runs", are ways to try out a new or used car from a store or a private seller. With one-day service, you can drive with peace of mind.

●       Short-Term Travel: Are you going on a road trip at the last minute or to another place for a meeting? Instead of changing your main insurance, it's faster to get a short policy.

●       In an emergency, you might need to drive a rented or borrowed car for a short time while your own car is in the shop.

●       Special Events: Going to a wedding, a party, or another event where you need to drive for the day but won't have your regular car with you.

What does most one-day car insurance cover?

Different insurance companies offer different types of coverage, but a typical one-day policy might cover:

●       Liability to a third party: This kind of insurance is required by law in India and protects against harm to other people or their belongings.

●       Own Damage Cover: Some insurance companies may give extra coverage for your own damage in case of an accident, theft, fire, or natural disaster.

●       Personal Accident Cover: This kind of insurance may be standard or available as an extra. It protects the driver in case of harm or death.

When looking at a policy, it's important to read over what it covers and what it doesn't cover.  Just like regular insurance, one-day coverage generally doesn't cover normal wear and tear, driving without a licence, or driving while drunk.

How does one-day car insurance work?

Getting car insurance for one day is usually a quick and easy process that is done online.  In general, this is how it works:

●       Check for Eligibility:  You'll have to give information like the number plate number, the driver's age, driving record, and where you are.

If you choose "Duration," the time frame will be a 24-hour window. However, some insurance companies may offer plans that last anywhere from a few hours to a few days.

●       Choose the Type of Coverage:  Depending on your needs and the choices your insurer gives you, you can choose between third-party car insurance and comprehensive car insurance.

●       Instant Issuance of the Policy: Once you pay the premium, the policy document is normally made right away and sent to your email address or made visible on the insurance company's website.

The best part? There is no long-term commitment, and the process is not very paper-heavy.

 Who can get car insurance for one day?

Different insurers have different rules about who can be covered, but here are some general ones:

●       The person who has the policy must have a legal driver's license.

●       Most of the time, the driver must be between a certain age group (18–75 years old).

●       The car has to be a personal-use car and be in good enough shape to drive on the road.

●       Some insurance companies may not cover high-performance or expensive cars.

●       Always make sure you are eligible before buying something to avoid problems with your claim later on.

Pros of having one-day car insurance

When the conditions are right, picking one-day car insurance can be a good idea. These are its main advantages:

●       Value for money: It's much cheaper to just pay for the time you need than to change or extend a long-term insurance.

●       Easy and quick: There isn't a lot of paperwork or waiting, so it's great for last-minute needs.

●       Legal Compliance: It protects you and lets you drive legally, even if it's just for a few hours.

●       Flexible: Depending on the insurance company, you might be able to add personal accident insurance or even roadside help.

 

Is there one-day insurance in India?

 Indian one-day car insurance is still in its early stages right now. There are times when some insurance companies may offer short-term add-ons or temporary plans. But there is a growing need for them, and rules are slowly changing to allow for more flexible insurance options.

 If you only need car insurance for one day, you should check with your source or an insurance aggregator to see if they offer such policies or if they can be changed to fit your needs.

Insurance that fits the way you move

In the busy world we live in now, not every drive needs a yearly commitment. If you need to drive your car for a weekend, a test drive, or an emergency, one-day car insurance is made to protect you when you need it.

Though they are still new to the Indian market, temporary plans are becoming more popular because they make owning a car easier and more  If you want to be flexible, follow the law, and avoid spending money you don't need to, looking into 1-day car insurance might be the best thing to do.

Protect yourself and stay safe, even if it's only for one day.


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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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