The Ultimate Guide to Short-Term Car Insurance in Thailand
Short-term car insurance is a flexible and cost-effective option for those who need coverage for a limited period. In Thailand you can buy affordable short-term car insurance starting from just 600 baht for 30 days. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about short-term car insurance in Thailand.
What is Short-Term Car Insurance?
Short-term car insurance in Thailand offers flexible coverage periods ranging from a few days to several months. It provides the same level of protection as regular annual policies but for a shorter duration making it ideal for occasional car use visitors or those testing out a new vehicle. Compared to regular annual car insurance policies you can save up to 90 percent on insurance premiums.
Types of Car Insurance in Thailand
Before diving into short-term insurance it's important to understand the types of car insurance available in Thailand:
Compulsory Third-Party Liability Insurance (Por Ror Bor)
This is the minimum insurance required by law in Thailand. It covers damages or injuries you cause to other people or their property while driving but does not cover damage to your own vehicle.
Voluntary Car Insurance
This is more comprehensive and is separated into different classes:
- First Class (Type 1): Comprehensive coverage for all types of damages.
- Second Plus Class (Type 2+): High coverage at a lower premium than Type 1.
- Third Plus Class (Type 3+): Covers damage from collisions with identified vehicles.
- Second Class (Type 2): Covers fire theft and third-party liability.
- Third Class (Type 3): Covers only third-party liability.
What Does Short-Term Car Insurance Cover?
What's Usually Covered
Short-term car insurance typically offers the same comprehensive coverage as annual policies. For a Type 1 Short-Term Car Insurance policy this usually includes:
- Damage to you and your car from an accident
- Damage caused to others and their vehicles or property
- Fire and Theft
- Driver/passenger accident cover
- Flood damage
- Bail bonds
- Damages to windscreen
- Personal injury
- Medical expenses
What's Usually Not Covered
Exclusions are similar to annual policies and may include:
- Negligence
- Wear and tear
- Invalid driving license
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or any illegal drugs
How Much Does Short-Term Car Insurance in Thailand Cost?
Prices for Short-Term Car Insurance in Thailand are competitive and flexible:
- 30 Days: Starts from 600 Baht
- 90 Days: Starts from 1 600 Baht
- 180 Days: Starts from 3 000 Baht
Actual costs may vary based on factors such as vehicle type driver's age and coverage level.
How to Get Cheaper Short-Term Car Insurance in Thailand
There are several ways to reduce your premiums:
Choose a Higher Excess or Deductible
This can lower your premium but ensure you can afford the higher out-of-pocket expense if you need to make a claim.
Opt for Garage Repairs
Garage repair plans are often significantly cheaper than dealership repairs.
Limit Your Mileage
Fewer kilometers driven means less risk of accidents which can impact your premium.
Name Specific Drivers
Naming no more than two drivers on your policy can often lower your insurance cost.
Maintain a Clean Driving Record
A clean driving record can help keep your premium low and some insurers offer no-claims bonuses.
How to Choose the Right Short-Term Car Insurance
When choosing short-term car insurance consider:
- The coverage you need based on your vehicle and driving habits
- Your budget
- The reputation of the insurance provider
- The specific terms and conditions of the policy
How to Apply for Short-Term Car Insurance in Thailand
Compare Plans & Premiums
Select the plan that is right for you.
Apply Online or Through an Agent
Apply directly through a website or contact a customer service representative.
Submit Necessary Documents
- Copy of your Passport or Thai Driving License
- Copy of your Bluebook or Registration or Deed of Sale
Get Covered
Once confirmed your coverage starts immediately. You'll receive a digital copy of your policy within 1-2 days and physical documents within 7-14 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my short-term car insurance if I need coverage for longer?
Typically you can extend your coverage by purchasing a new short-term policy. Contact your insurance provider for specific options.
Is short-term car insurance available for rental cars?
Short-term insurance can often be used for rental cars. Check with your provider for rental car coverage options.
Can I cancel my short-term car insurance before it expires?
Generally you can cancel but there might be fees involved. Contact your insurer for their specific cancellation policy.
How quickly can I get short-term car insurance coverage?
Coverage typically starts immediately after you receive a confirmation email from your insurance provider.
Is roadside assistance included in all short-term car insurance policies?
Roadside assistance is often available as an add-on but it's not automatically included in all policies.
How does claiming work with short-term car insurance?
The claiming process is typically similar to annual policies. Contact your insurer immediately after an incident for guidance.
Does short-term car insurance cover me if I drive to neighboring countries?
International coverage varies by policy. It's best to confirm with your insurance provider about coverage in neighboring countries.
How to Choose the Right Car Insurance
When choosing car insurance it's important to consider the coverage you need your budget and the reputation of the insurance provider. Here are some tips to help you choose the right car insurance:
Compare Quotes
Get quotes from different insurance providers to compare coverage and premiums right away on our website
Check the Reputation of the Insurance Provider
Choose an insurance provider with a good reputation for customer service and claims processing. We have already vetted all our policies and you can be sure that we only sell from insurance providers with a good reputation
Consider the Coverage You Need
Consider the type of coverage you need based on your vehicle driving habits and budget. Comprehensive insurance provides the most coverage but it's also the most expensive.
Read the Fine Print
Read the policy details carefully to understand the coverage exclusions deductibles and limits of liability.
How to Make a Claim
If you are involved in an accident follow these steps to make a claim:
- Call the police and report the accident.
- Exchange information with the other driver including names addresses phone numbers and insurance details.
- Take photos of the damage to your vehicle and the other vehicle.
- Contact your insurance provider and report the accident.
- Follow the instructions from your insurance provider for submitting a claim.
The Ultimate Guide to Short Terms in Thailand: Everything You Need to Know
Short terms car insurance is a type of voluntary car insurance that is made for people who only drive a given car for a short period of time but still would very much like to have it fully coved but also would want to save on the premium since they do not want to insure the car for the normal period of one year. But first let's learn more about car insurance in Thailand.
Types of Car Insurance in Thailand
Car insurance in Thailand is classified into different types and each type has varying coverage and benefits that cater to different drivers' needs. This article aims to provide a brief overview of the different types of car insurance and who is best suited to buy them.
- Compulsory Third-Party Liability Insurance
- Voluntary car insurance
Compulsory Third-Party Liability Insurance
Compulsory Third-Party Liability Insurance is the minimum insurance required by law in Thailand. It covers damages or injuries you cause to other people or their property while driving. This insurance does not cover any damage to your own vehicle.Voluntary car insurance
Voluntary car insurance
Voluntary car insurance is generally more comprehensive and will have much more coverage compared to compulsory insurance. Voluntary insurance can be separated into classes from 1st class 2nd class 2nd plus class 3rd class and 3rd plus class. Following are the details of the class types
Types of Voluntary Car Insurance(Class)
Type 1 Car Insurance provides comprehensive coverage for damages to the insured vehicle regardless of fault in case of an accident fire theft or natural disaster. It also covers liability to third parties for property damage and bodily injury including windscreen damage to the vehicle. Type 1 also covers medical expenses personal accident coverage and bail bond coverage for the driver consented by the insured or driver as specified in the policy. This insurance is best suited for new cars new drivers with little driving experience and cars that are frequently and regularly used.
Second Plus Class
Type 2+ Car Insurance offers high coverage at a lower premium than Type 1 but the coverage is slightly different. It covers damage to the insured vehicle regardless of fault provided by another identified vehicle involved in the accident as well as damage caused by fire theft or flood and liability to third parties for property damage and bodily injury when the driver is at fault. Type 2+ also covers medical expenses personal accident coverage and bail bond coverage for the driver. However Type 2+ does not cover own damages without a third party and windscreen damages. This insurance is suitable for cars used regularly but parked in risky areas or not in gated locations.
Third Plus Class
Type 3+ Car Insurance provides coverage for damage to the insured vehicle regardless of fault provided another identified vehicle has been involved in the accident as well as liability to third parties for property damage and bodily injury when the driver is at fault. It also covers medical expenses personal accident coverage and bail bond coverage for the driver. However Type 3+ does not cover own damages without a third party windscreen damages fire theft or flood. This insurance is suitable for cars that are seven years or older and used regularly but do not have any risk from the parking location.
Second Class
Type 2 Car Insurance covers damage to the insured vehicle in case of fire and theft and liability to third parties for property damage and bodily injury when the driver is at fault. It also covers medical expenses personal accident coverage and bail bond coverage for the driver.
Thrid Class
Type 3 Car Insurance covers liability to third parties for property damage and bodily injury when the driver is at fault. It also covers medical expenses personal accident coverage and bail bond coverage for the policyholder or driver. Type 2 and Type 3 insurance are best suited for those with a tight budget but still want basic insurance coverage.
Choosing the right short term car insurance in Thailand
Choosing the right car insurance in Thailand depends on the driver's needs and the car's condition. Type 1 insurance is best for new cars new drivers and cars frequently used. Type 2+ insurance is best for cars used regularly but parked in risky areas or not in gated locations. Type 3+ insurance is best for cars that are seven years or older and regularly used but have no risk from the parking location. Lastly Type 2 and Type 3 insurance provide basic coverage for those with a tight budget.
Short terms car insurance is also separated as such and depending on which plan and what class of car insurance you choose the premium of the insurance will change accordingly. Another factor that would affect the premium is the period of coverage you will have to choose the period of coverage that would range from 30 days 90 days 120 days and 180 days the more days of the coverage the more you would have to pay but at the same time the more days under the coverage period would make the policy relatively cheaper as well.