Your guide to fully comprehensive van insurance

Your Van is a valuable asset, be it for your business or personal use. Which is why it is important to protect it financially. With comprehensive van insurance, not only do you get coverage for the vehicle, the driver, and the goods, but you also get peace of mind!

There are three levels of van insurance:

• Third-party only
• Third-party fire and theft
• Comprehensive

What is comprehensive van insurance?

Comprehensive van insurance, also known as fully comprehensive van insurance, is the highest level of coverage you can get for your van. It provides extensive protection for both you and your van in a wide range of situations.

Not only does it cover damages to third parties, but it also covers the insured van against risks such as accidental damage, theft, and vandalism.

Fully comprehensive van insurance often includes additional benefits, such as coverage for personal belongings within the van and medical expenses for the driver and passengers.

What is covered by comprehensive van insurance?

While all policies differ in terms of coverage, usually, a comprehensive van insurance policy will include cover for:

• Accidents and damages to your van or the other person's vehicle.
• Injuries sustained in an accident, regardless of who is at fault.
• Theft and vandalism, both attempted and successful.
• Fire damages and the loss caused by it.

Some policies will also include additional benefits like:

• Windscreen cover
• Theft of or damage to the contents of your van
• Legal protection
• No-claims discount protection
• Misfuelling
• Courtesy van
• Breakdown cover

What's not covered by comprehensive insurance?

Despite being the highest form of coverage, comprehensive insurance doesn't cover absolutely everything. There are also some specific exclusions listed in your policy documents. Common exclusions involve:

• Negligence, such as leaving your van unlocked during a theft.
• Overloading beyond the van's capacity leading to accidents.
• Wear and tear of van parts.
• Driving without a valid licence.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Claims arising from illegal activities, such as smuggling.
• Geographical limits, etc.

The exact coverage provided by your policy will vary, based on the one you opt for.

How much does comprehensive van insurance cost in Ireland?

It is assumed that the most expensive level of van insurance would be comprehensive insurance. Because it provides the most protection. But it often ends up being less expensive than third-party only and third-party, fire and theft policies.

The average annual price for comprehensive van insurance in Ireland in 2021 was £398 and in 2022 was £449.

The cost of insurance also depends on your:

• age
• van
• annual mileage
• claims history, etc.

Why is comprehensive van insurance cheaper than others?

Drivers who opt for third-party insurance are often considered a higher risk, therefore insurance providers expect more claims from them.

On the other hand, it is also assumed that comprehensive coverage is chosen by responsible drivers who are seen as less likely to make claims.

That's why, even if you're seeking ways to save on van insurance, it's crucial to compare your options with comprehensive quotes. Surprisingly, comprehensive coverage might cost the same as, or even less than, a third-party policy.

How can I reduce the cost of comprehensive van insurance?

There are a few things you can do to reduce your premiums when buying comprehensive coverage. They are:

• Opt for a higher deductible. It means you'll pay more out of pocket in case of a claim, but it often results in lower premiums.
• Bundle your comprehensive van insurance with other insurance policies, like home or renters insurance. It can often lead to discounted rates.
• A good credit score can positively impact your insurance premiums.
• Pay annually rather than monthly. This way you don't have to pay any interest on the premium.
• Installing anti-theft devices in your vehicle can reduce the risk of theft. This leads to lower insurance costs.
• Being aware of additional covers that you don't need.

Planning to buy fully comprehensive insurance?

Fully comprehensive insurance provides the most protection for you and your vehicle. A comprehensive policy, therefore, ensures peace of mind, as it minimises out-of-pocket expenses.

Visit Paddy Compare to get the best deal at the cheapest price. You can compare different deals based on their terms and premiums to choose the most suitable one for yourself. Simply follow these steps: