Car insurance: what types of additional cover are there?

1. Bonus protection

Bonus protection ensures that your bonus level doesn’t increase after a claim. Bonus protection is available for liability insurance and collision casco. Premiums for bonus protection often depend on the bonus level. This cover is recommended for everyone who isn’t yet at the lowest bonus level.

2. Gross negligence

If you cause an accident through gross negligence (for example, driving through a red light), the insurance company may take action against you. This means that if you make a claim, the insurance company may demand part of the money back.

Gross negligence cover protects you from any reductions in cover. It costs around 60 francs per year and is worthwhile for anyone who wants to make sure they are fully insured.

3. Parked car damage cover

Has somebody collided into your parked car? Parked car damage cover comes into play. Some insurance companies offer additional cover against scratched paintwork, for example.

You can usually take out cover for newer vehicles (especially for scratched paintwork). Annual premiums depend on the vehicle’s price when new and the driver’s personal criteria. Parked car damage cover is particularly recommended for newer cars.

4. Personal belongings

The name says it all: personal belongings cover insures any personal belongings that are in your car. This could include your jacket, handbag or sports bag, for example (cash is not included). You pay about 15 francs for 2,000 francs of insurance cover. This cover is recommended for anyone who carries lots of valuables in their car.

5. Roadside Assistance

Roadside assistance offers you round-the-clock towing and breakdown assistance, including a replacement car. Carefully check what is covered. Some insurance companies offer different options (Switzerland and Liechtenstein, Europe, worldwide). Some insurance companies offer assistance automatically when signing the contract.

This assistance usually only applies to the car you have already insured. Do you want assistance that also applies to other cars? If so, you’re in good hands with the Touring Club of Switzerland (TCS) or the Automobile Club of Switzerland (ACS).

6. Extended glass breakage

You can insure the front, rear and side windows with extended glass breakage cover. Partial casco is required before taking out this additional insurance. Headlights are usually excluded from this glass cover. If you have expensive headlights, for example xenon headlights, you can also insure them with cover for small glass parts. Not all providers offer cover for glass breakages. Ask your insurance company to find out more.