What is Personal Accident Cover?
Personal accident cover, also known as personal injury cover, provides financial compensation in the event of life-changing injuries or death caused by a car accident. This coverage is designed to protect the driver and their passengers, ensuring financial support for recovery, medical expenses, or compensation for lost earnings.
What can personal accident cover include?
The exact coverage varies by provider, but it typically includes compensation for:
✅Permanent loss of vision in one or both eyes
✅Amputation of limbs or permanent loss of limb function
✅Total paralysis or disablement
✅Death resulting from a car accident
Some policies may also extend to:
- Loss of hearing or speech
- Severe burns or scarring
- Loss of fingers or toes
Possible Exclusions to Be Aware Of:
While personal accident cover offers valuable financial protection, there are exclusions to be aware of:
❌Minor injuries such as sprains or simple fractures
❌Psychological trauma
❌Injuries resulting from reckless behaviour, such as driving under the influence, not wearing a seatbelt, or participating in races
❌Self-inflicted injuries or suicide
Most policies also require that injuries are directly caused by the car accident and not pre-existing conditions or illnesses.
Do You Need Personal Accident Cover?
This cover provides peace of mind and financial security if you or your loved ones are seriously injured in an accident. It can help with:
- Specialist medical care or rehabilitation
- Adapting your home for accessibility needs
- Compensating for loss of income if you’re unable to work
While healthcare like the NHS in the UK covers medical treatment, personal accident cover can provide additional support for unforeseen expenses and lifestyle adjustments.
Is Personal Accident Cover Included in Car Insurance?
Some comprehensive car insurance policies include basic personal accident cover, but the level of protection varies. For more comprehensive coverage, you may need to purchase it as an add-on or opt for a standalone personal accident policy.
Things to Consider:
- Who is covered? Does the policy cover you, your partner, or your entire family?
- What injuries are included? Check the list of injuries eligible for compensation.
- Where are you covered? Are accidents abroad included?
- How much is covered? Understand the maximum payout and how it applies to different injuries.
By understanding these factors, you can select the policy that best suits your needs and offers the right level of financial protection.