Jamaica Gleaner

CAR INSURANCE

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An insurance policy is a contract between you and an insurance company, in which they promise to take over the financial costs of certain risks. The policy describes the item(s) covered, the risks you are covered against and specifies your rights and responsibi­lities, along with the terms and limits of the cover.

WHY MOTOR INSURANCE?

Under the Motor Vehicles Insurance (Third Party Risks) Act of 1941, a minimum level of insurance is compulsory if you intend to operate a vehicle on the Jamaican roads. Being caught driving a vehicle that is not insured is an offence. In addition, it is your best interest to ensure that whether through someone else’s fault or yours an accident or loss does not cause you financial hardship. Insuring your vehicle is a means of protecting yourself.

WHY DO I GET A CERTIFICAT­E OF INSURANCE?

Under the law, the certificat­e of insurance is required as proof of the existence of insurance. It must be returned if the policy is suspended or cancelled. If it is lost, you should advise your insurance company immediatel­y.

WHAT IS THIRD-PARTY INSURANCE?

If you negligentl­y cause injury to or damage the property of other motorists, pedestrian­s, passengers, etc, you will have a legal liability. Third party Insurance relieves you of this liability by paying these claims on your behalf.

WHAT IS A NO-CLAIM DISCOUNT?

This is a discount that you can earn for not making claims under your policy. Provided you do not claim on your policy, this discount will increase at each renewal up to a maximum of 60 per cent after five years. If a claim is made, your discount will be reduced, but can be reinstated if it is proven that you were not at fault, and we are able to recover your losses from the third party’s insurer.

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