What Third Party Cover Includes
Third party insurance covers compensation for injury to other people and damage to other people's vehicles or property caused by you while driving. It's the minimum level of cover legally required under the Road Traffic Act 1988.
What Third Party Cover Does Not Include
Is Third Party Insurance Cheaper?
It's a common assumption that third party cover is always the cheapest option, but this isn't necessarily true. Because comprehensive policyholders are often statistically viewed as lower risk overall, some drivers find comprehensive cover priced similarly to, or even below, third party only insurance.
Who Might Choose Third Party Cover
Some drivers with very low-value vehicles choose third party cover, reasoning that the cost of comprehensive cover may not be worthwhile relative to the car's value, though this decision should always be based on actual comparison quotes rather than assumption.
Comparing Cover Levels
See our Car Insurance UK guide for a full comparison of third party, third party fire and theft, and comprehensive cover, including a breakdown of what each level typically includes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Third Party Car Insurance UK
Is third party car insurance the legal minimum in the UK?
Yes, under the Road Traffic Act 1988, third party cover is the minimum level of insurance legally required to drive in the UK.
Does third party insurance cover my own car?
No, it only covers injury or damage you cause to others. Damage to your own vehicle is not covered.
Is third party insurance always cheaper than comprehensive?
Not necessarily. Comprehensive cover is sometimes similarly priced or even cheaper, as comprehensive policyholders are often seen as lower risk overall.
Who typically chooses third party only cover?
Some owners of very low-value vehicles choose it, weighing the cost of fuller cover against the car's value, though comparing actual quotes is always recommended.
What happens if I'm at fault with third party insurance?
You would be covered for the other party's injury or damage costs, but would need to pay for your own vehicle's repair or replacement yourself.
Conclusion
Third party car insurance meets the UK's legal minimum requirement but leaves your own vehicle uninsured against damage. Always compare it against fuller cover levels before assuming it represents the best value for your circumstances.
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