The Swiss vehicle insurance market is complicated, with many coverage options. Only third-party liability insurance, however, is required. The Swiss Financial Market Authority (FINMA) regulates the vehicle insurance providers in Switzerland. Car insurance, after health insurance, building insurance, and accident insurance, is the fourth most frequent kind of non-life insurance in Switzerland, according to FINMA statistics.
When purchasing automobile insurance in Switzerland, the vehicle is usually covered rather than the driver. Most plans typically cover additional drivers, which means that anybody with a valid driver’s licence can drive your car. You’ll need supplementary coverage or completely comprehensive insurance if you wish to drive someone else’s automobile. You may utilise most Swiss auto insurance policies to cover other vehicles if you have transferable licence plates.
Types of car insurance
There are several types of automobile insurance available in Switzerland. They are divided into three tiers, increasing the insurance company’s coverage.
In Switzerland, liability insurance, also known as civil responsibility insurance, is required for all automobile owners. This insurance will pay for any harm you do to others. For example, if you collide with another vehicle, liability insurance will pay for the damage to the other car. When you damage someone, the same thing happens.
Partial casco coverage is liability insurance with coverage for your car in the event of an accident that isn’t your fault. Natural catastrophes, fire, theft, vandalism, and animal collisions are examples of such events. Because policies differ amongst insurers, it’s critical to double-check what’s covered and what isn’t. Glass damage, damage in a parking lot, and storm damage are all standard exclusions.
Full Casco covers almost all expenses. In other words, anything that concerns you, your automobile, and any third parties involved in an accident in which you or another insured driver is at fault. Although full Casco is a choice, it may be required to lease rather than purchase an automobile in Switzerland.
Things to consider
When shopping for vehicle insurance in Switzerland, keep in mind that there are more aspects to getting the best car insurance than just considering the lowest price. Other things to keep an eye out for are:
The amount you must pay toward any insurance claim is the excess or deductible. The sum varies per insurance in Switzerland, but it is usually roughly CHF 1,000 for drivers under 25 and CHF 500 for drivers 25 and up with less than two years of driving experience. Other drivers generally do not have to pay a deductible.
Examine the policies thoroughly to determine all the details that are covered. Then assess if it is possible to add anything you require and how much will it cost?
If you don’t use your automobile and return the licence plates in Switzerland, you don’t have to insure them. Some insurance companies may let you put your payments on hold while your automobile is not in use.
Bonuses and penalties
Like many other nations, Switzerland has a no-claims bonus insurance scheme which implies that your rates will decrease every year you go without filing a claim. Every insurance provider has its no-claims bonus programme.
Each year of no claims will often result in a 5–10% reduction on your auto insurance. There will be a cut-off point post which will not be possible to go any lower. Most insurers will give you a 30–40 per cent discount, but others may give you a better bargain.
Some insurance providers will enable you to carry over no-claims bonuses from prior policies, but they are not obligated to do so. Before you join up, double-check.
Although you might earn savings for not filing a claim, filing a claim frequently can raise your premiums. If you have a bad driving record, you might wind up paying much more than the regular rate.
Why compare car insurance in Switzerland
It is mandatory to be informed of the possibilities available in the market when searching to get auto insurance. You should gain basic knowledge of the various insurance plans available and know your insurance requirements.
Comparing plans from multiple insurance providers is one of the most crucial procedures when purchasing vehicle insurance. This article explains why it’s essential to compare car insurance in Switzerland and how to do it efficiently.
There are several vehicle insurance companies in Switzerland. The most often utilised vehicle insurance firms in Switzerland are Allianz, Axa, and Generali. It might take a long time to compare all vehicle insurance providers.
Conclusion
The Swiss vehicle insurance system is rather complex. However, it is pretty beneficial.
Make sure you don’t take on too much protection. Regardless of your position, most insurance companies will try to persuade you to get as much coverage as possible. However, in many circumstances, the entire range is not required. In addition, you are unlikely to require occupants’ insurance. Another good step would be to compare car insurance in Switzerland.
