Is Insurance Required for Test Driving a Vehicle?

You can decide on buying a car by watching car tech channels, reading reviews, and watching blogs about their on-the-road experience. But it is unlikely that you will buy a  car without test-driving it.

You surely do not want to miss out on the experience and assurance of how it feels on the road, how convenient it is to handle, and how comfortable you are in it. But did you know your test-driving vehicle must also have valid car insurance online? The responsibility of which lies with the car dealer.

Buying a car insurance policy is mandatory for both personal and commercial cars. If you wish to enhance your existing cover, consider exploring bumper-to-bumper car insurance for your new car. Reputed insurance providers like Tata AIG offer comprehensive plans with easy purchase and car insurance renewal processes.

 Why Is It Necessary to Take Test Driving Before Buying Vehicle

Many individuals buy a car insurance policy only after assessing the quality of customer support. Similarly, doing a test-driving before making the decision to purchase a car is extremely crucial. When you take a test drive, you understand the car’s immediate issues and whether it is suitable for you and your family.

The issues can range from whether there is suitable space for the whole family or if there is stiff clutch-to-leg space, etc. You can only feel it when you are behind the wheel.

A car is a significant investment that you make. Hence, it is best to have adequate knowledge about the car to make the right decision.

Also, an impulse decision (buying a car without test-driving it) can add unexpected expenses, especially if you are buying from a private seller. It may be tough to negotiate returns or compensation.

What Document Do You Need to Test Drive a Car?

The most important document you need for test driving a new or used car is your valid driving licence.

Further, your dealer must have insurance that, at the least, provides third-party coverage. If it has comprehensive coverage, it is even better, as it covers you and the third party in case of losses incurred due to an accident.

Is it Important to Purchase Car Insurance for Test Driving?

It has been made mandatory by law that every motor vehicle that is driven on Indian roads must have car insurance, at least third-party online car insurance.

Whether you are taking a test drive for a large commercial vehicle, a fancy Ferrari or a simple hatchback, The car must have valid four-wheeler insurance. Driving without valid insurance can lead to heavy fines and even imprisonment.

Who Needs to Get Four-Wheeler Insurance for a Test Drive?

The ownership to get the four-wheeler insurance for a test drive lies with the car dealer. Therefore, before you start your test drive, make sure you ask your dealer about the insurance status.

As comprehensive car insurance covers both parties, i.e., third-party liabilities and damages to the insured car, it is best they have comprehensive coverage. Most dealers prefer buying online car insurance that covers the damages of the insured car and liability claims while a customer or employee is driving the vehicle.

Therefore, it is important to clearly communicate and ask whether the vehicle is covered. It is also advisable to only test drive a car if it has an active insurance plan to avoid unexpected liabilities.

What Kind of Insurance is Required for a Test Drive?

The basic expected insurance a dealer must have is third-party car insurance that covers loss or damage incurred to the third party. But to ensure a better and safer experience, some dealers might choose to have a comprehensive coverage plan.

The third-party insurance shall provide coverage only for third-party damages or injuries. It does not cover any damages caused to the car or individuals inside the car at the time of the accident.

Comprehensive insurance will provide all-around protection, covering damages to the car and any third-party liabilities, providing peace of mind for everyone involved, including you. Therefore, it is the best form of insurance coverage for a test drive.

 Conclusion

Although purchasing a car insurance policy for a test drive is the responsibility of the car dealer from whom you are planning to buy a car, the responsibility to ensure that he has car insurance stays with you. Always verify before you decide to take it for a spin!

When you purchase a new car, the dealer can help you purchase car insurance. Remember, though third-party insurance is mandatory, it is always best to opt for comprehensive car insurance. Moreover, you can also include add-ons as per your requirement to enhance the coverage.

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