Do Women Car-Owners Need Motor Insurance Add-Ons

Do Women Car-Owners Need Motor Insurance Add-Ons?

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April 24, 2023

Women drivers are a growing demographic in India. According to Statista, 6.8% of all driving licences issued in 2019 were held by women — out of 206 million total. Research also shows women tend to drive more carefully and take fewer risks than men. But safer driving doesn't mean less need for protection.

Third-party insurance is mandatory for all car owners. A comprehensive plan adds cover for your own vehicle too. But even comprehensive policies have gaps — and that's where add-ons help.

Here are a few motor insurance add-ons worth considering for women drivers:

For Women Who Are Primary Earners

The daily allowance cover pays for your commute when your car is being repaired. It's ideal for single mothers or sole breadwinners.

Key details:

• Covers up to ₹500 per day for transportation
• Usually valid for up to two weeks
• Only applies if your car is repaired at a garage in your insurer's network

Protection When Travelling Alone

A car can break down anywhere — on a highway, late at night, or far from home. For women driving alone, this can be stressful and unsafe.

Roadside assistance cover helps in situations like:

• A flat tyre
• A dead battery
• Engine or mechanical failure

It ensures you're not left stranded. Talk to your insurer about which level of cover suits your needs.

Good Driving Behaviour Gets Rewarded

Pay How You Drive (PHYD) plans use a telematics device to track your driving habits. Safe drivers get a discount on their premium.

Women typically benefit the most because they:

• Follow speed limits more consistently
• Brake smoothly and drive cautiously
• Are less likely to engage in risky behaviour

Simply put — if you drive carefully, you pay less.

Protection for Valuable Belongings

Standard comprehensive insurance covers your car — not what's inside it. If you carry a laptop, jewellery, or other valuables daily, the personal belongings cover add-on fills this gap.

Note that claims are not covered for:

• Items left in the car overnight
• Loss caused by the policyholder's negligence
• Borrowed or rented property
• Items damaged in a road accident

Pay Only for the Distance You Travel

Pay As You Drive (PAYD) is a type of comprehensive plan — not an add-on — but it's highly recommended for women who don't drive often.

Instead of a flat annual premium, you pay based on actual usage. Options include:

• Pre-set distance slabs such as 2,500 km or 5,500 km
• A switch-off option when your car isn't being used

This works well for women who work remotely, follow a hybrid schedule, or prefer cabs and public transport for daily travel.

It is always advised to compare multiple options online before making a decision. Read the policy fine print thoroughly before you buy any plan.