• Repair or payment of the insured value of your vehicle for events including theft, collision, fire, malicious damage and weather-related damage
• Repair or payment of the value of other vehicles that are damaged by your vehicle in an accident, and damage to property up to the policy limits

Some companies offer a variety of optional extras as well, ranging from windscreen protection, to use of hire cars. That said, it’s important to always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) of your policy to get a better understanding of policy inclusions, limitations and exclusions.

• Compulsory third party (CTP): Covers death and injury to people if you’re involved in an accident. Each state and territory has different rules regarding this cover, so it’s important you check with your local transport authority for further information
• Third party property: Covers repair costs for property damage caused by your car up to the limits of the policy
• Third party property, fire, and theft: Covers damage to other people’s property and provides cover for theft of your vehicle, or damage to your vehicle caused by fire up to the limits of the policy

Ensure you review the Product Disclosure Statement for policy inclusions, limitations and exclusions.

• Parking your car in secure parking (such as in lock-up garage) if possible, to reduce the risk of theft, vandalism, flood or storm damage claims
• Buying a car fitted with an immobiliser or a security alarm, or having them installed. This may reduce the risk of theft and damage claims
• Driving less often. For example, catching public transport to work. Some insurers may offer lower premiums for drivers who don’t use their car frequently
• Limiting the number of drivers nominated on your policy, especially if they’re under 25. Fewer drivers means less risk of a claim for your insurer
• Choosing a higher excess, which means you’re taking on a larger part of the risk from your insurer
• Choosing to insure for market value or a lower agreed value, which will reduce the amount your insurer has to pay-out should your car be written-off

• The details of any other party or parties involved, including name, phone number, vehicle registration, address, license number and insurance details
• The names and phone numbers of any witnesses
• Photos of the accident scene and damage to the vehicles involved, if possible
• Any reports from police or paramedics, if they were required

• If I crash into a luxury sports car could I afford their repairs?
• Is my car likely to be broken into?
• How will I get around if my car is stolen or written off?