The risk of an accident is one of the biggest concerns of any driver while driving on Indian roads. Around 17 people experience a fatal road accident every hour in this country. This is an alarming figure for a country that has one of the largest road networks in the world and a dense population.
Usually, when we think of car accidents, our focus automatically goes to the owner or the driver of the vehicle. However, the passengers of the car are also as much in danger of the accident as the driver. For this reason, car insurance providers offer passenger cover as an add-on to their car insurance policies. As a policyholder, you will have to pay an additional premium to purchase this add-on along with your comprehensive car insurance online.
What is passenger cover?
Whether you drive a personal or a commercial car, most of the time you drive, there will be passengers in the car with you. They are at as great of a risk of an injury or death in the case of a car accident. Hence, they need security against the financial burden and liabilities that could arise from an accident as well. Under a regular comprehensive coverage, car insurance policies do not include the occupants of your vehicle as beneficiaries. However, many insurance companies offer passengers the coverage they need as an add-on to the base car insurance policy. Choosing this extra protection will make a slight difference in your car insurance prices, but it is important to ensure the full protection of everyone inside the vehicle.
Why do you need to by a passenger cover?
Generally, a car insurance plan provides full financial assistance to an insured private car driver in the event of an accident. This means in accident resulting in death or permanent disability, your family is entitled to receive a sum assured from the insurer. However, under usual circumstances, this type of coverage is not extended to the passengers of the vehicle in the event of an accident. They would have to spend money out of their own pocket to treat any injuries or disability that they suffer due to an accident while they were in your car.
As the driver/owner of the car, it is your responsibility to provide the same safety to your passengers that you have from your car insurance policy. If and when an accident occurs, the passengers are not in any way responsible for the accident. So, when buying a car insurance policy, you should know that the only way to ensure protection for your passengers is to opt for a passenger cover. With such a cover included in your car insurance plan, your passengers will be able to claim the cost of any treatment in the event of such accidents. This also help you avoid any compensation that you would have to pay towards your passengers for their injuries. * Standard T&C Apply
Many policyholders avoid buying a passenger cover due to the notion that there is direct benefit of the cover aimed towards them. However, that is not true. In the case of an accident, you are responsible for your passenger’s safety. Hence, you are also liable to ensure that they receive the help required. The passenger cover takes care of this responsibility for you. Also remember that such coverage is not available when you purchase a third party car insurance online, but only with comprehensive policies. Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms and conditions, please read sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.