Common Features & Exclusions

Besides the fact that it is against the law in Singapore to drive a motor vehicle without a valid insurance policy to cover third party bodily injury, motor insurance makes good sense as it gives you protection against financial damages or losses that may arise from a motor accident.

It covers you for personal injury that you may cause to third parties, and can cover your costs if you damage someone else's property. It can also cover any other loss or damage that you may suffer in a motor accident.

 

A motor insurance policy typically imposes an excess which is the cost you may be required to bear in the event of a claim being made against your policy. Generally, the more risk the insurer carries the higher the excess will be.

motor Motor Insurance Consumer Guide

Common Motor Insurance Packages

What are some common packages available in the market and how do you select one that is suitable?

Third Party

  • Death or injury to other parties
  • Damage to other parties' property

Third Party, Fire and Theft

  • Death or injury to other parties
  • Damage to other parties' property
  • Fire damage to, or theft of, your vehicle

Comprehensive

  • Death or injury to other parties
  • Damage to other parties' property
  • Fire damage to, or theft of, your vehicle
  • Accidental damage to your vehicle
  • Windscreen damage
  • Damage arising from riot, strike and civil commotion
  • Personal accident cover (private car only)
  • Medical expenses (private car only)

Optional Benefits for Comprehensive Policies


(May be subjected to payment of additional premium)
  • Damage arising from flood and windstorm
  • Liability of passengers for acts of negligence
  • Personal accident benefits for passengers
  • Additional excess
  • No-Claim Discount protection (private car only)

Before Buying a Motor Insurance Policy

As a customer, you need to keep in mind that not all motor insurance policies are the same. Insurers offer a wide variety of products to meet the individual needs of customers. Again, it is best to shop around to find a policy with your preferred combination of price, excess and requirements in terms of use and repairs.

Remember that if the premiums are lower, there may be more restrictions that may apply to what is covered, and your options in the event of a claim.

For example, lower-priced policies may come with restrictions such as on who is the main driver of your car or whether your car can only be driven by named drivers; where you can send your vehicle for repairs; or whether new or reconditioned parts are used. Higher priced policies usually cover all your authorised drivers who have a valid driving licence, and may allow more flexibility in your choice of repairers, etc.

Policyholders should refer to the Certificate of Insurance which clearly states who is authorised to drive the vehicles.

Please note that different excess may be applicable when your authorised drivers are involved in an accident. Please check with your insurer on the applicable excess.

buying-insurance Motor Insurance Consumer Guide

Take note of these points when considering whether to buy a certain motor insurance policy:

  • Are there restrictions on who can drive the vehicle?
  • What extra cover can you buy?
  • Does the policy meet the requirements of your bank or finance company if you are buying the vehicle on a hire purchase or car loan scheme?
  • How much excess will you be required to pay should you need to make a claim?
  • Does the policy require you to take your damaged vehicle only to those authorised workshops listed in your policy for repairs?
  • Does it have restrictions on who is permitted to repair the vehicle?
  • Will reconditioned parts be used for repairs?