Car insurance: how to protect your car properly?

On Réunion Island, as everywhere else in the world, car insurance is essential. It is very important, giving you cover in the event of an incident, especially if you drive your own car.

For example, if you’ve chosen a car hire with an LLD option, you also need to check that the vehicle’s insurance is in order. But if you’ve just bought a car, you’re probably wondering which car insurance to choose.

Don’t worry: MultiAuto, the car rental expert in Réunion, guides you on the subject.

Choosing the car insurance contract that suits your needs

Taking out car insurance is an essential step to drive with peace of mind. It is important to analyse the cover offered in your car insurance contract carefully, to protect your vehicle in all circumstances.

For example, cover for theft or weather events such as floods or cyclones can be decisive in Réunion. Depending on your needs, you can opt for third-party, intermediate or comprehensive insurance, each with its own advantages for your situation.

Understanding the key factors of your car insurance

The no-claims bonus/malus system plays a crucial role in calculating your car insurance premium. Good behaviour on the road earns discounts, while an at-fault accident can lead to an increase.

Before taking out insurance, also check whether specific cover is included, mainly for theft or natural disasters. Choosing your car insurance contract well avoids surprises and ensures cover suited to your budget and expectations.

Which car insurance package to choose?

Choosing a suitable package is a key step when taking out your contract. Third-party car insurance includes only third-party liability cover, which covers damage caused to others.

This option is ideal for old or little-used vehicles. However, it doesn’t protect against damage to your vehicle in an accident, attempted theft or other claims. For more complete cover, intermediate or comprehensive packages are available, offering stronger protection according to your needs.

Extra options for your car insurance

Some packages include specific services such as 0 km breakdown cover, so you get assistance even if your vehicle breaks down at home. This type of protection is particularly useful in Réunion, where journeys can quickly exceed 50 km between two points.

Before finalising your car insurance contract, take time to check. It is important to compare the different options to find the one that meets your expectations, taking into account your journeys and how you use the vehicle.

The car insurance you need

So you’ve decided to buy a car on Réunion Island. You then need to set money aside for insurance.

Here is the car insurance you should have to drive with peace of mind:

Third-party liability car insurance (RC):

This insurance is compulsory as soon as you drive your vehicle on public roads. For example, if an accident happens and you are responsible, third-party liability insurance covers all physical and material damage you may have caused to a third party.

For example, the other driver’s medical costs would be covered. But note that third-party liability doesn’t cover you yourself, meaning it doesn’t cover damage to your own car.

Comprehensive insurance:

With this type of insurance, you extend your cover in the event of an accident or damage. It lets you be reimbursed for damage to your car or injuries you have suffered, in any circumstances (at fault or not, accident caused by a natural disaster or technical failure).

With comprehensive insurance, you can also be compensated for fire and theft, glass damage and collision damage. So it’s better to have this insurance.

Driver personal injury insurance:

It is additional insurance, but it could be crucial for you. Driver personal injury insurance (ACC) provides cover in the event of the driver’s death, disability or physical injury.

Individual driver accident insurance (ICC):

this insurance is similar to ACC, as it also covers you in the event of death or permanent disability.

These types of insurance are worth considering. When you plan to buy a car to get around Réunion Island, they are essential.

MultiAuto, an independent Réunion-based rental company since 2003

4 branches including Roland Garros airport, unlimited mileage included, clear rates and a real person who knows the island. We do more than hand you the keys: we advise you to suit your plans, from the coast to the cirques.

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