Key Points
- In New Zealand, there is no legal requirement to have car insurance, so it's not illegal to drive without it.
- However, driving without insurance poses significant financial risks, as individuals are personally responsible for any damage they cause in road-traffic accidents, or could be hit by an uninsured driver.
- Canstar's star ratings and car insurance awards provide expert guidance when comparing car insurance policies’ levels of cover and value for money.
Is it legal to drive without insurance?
In New Zealand, unlike many other countries, there is no legal requirement to have car insurance. While it's strongly recommended to have insurance coverage for protection against accidents and liabilities, it's not illegal to drive without it.
However, driving without insurance still poses significant financial risks, as individuals are personally responsible for any damage they cause in accidents. Therefore, while it's not mandatory, it's highly advisable to have car insurance in New Zealand to safeguard against potential financial burdens resulting from accidents.
What are the benefits of car insurance?
1. Financial protection
Car insurance provides coverage for damages to your vehicle caused by accidents, theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
Vehicle insurance also includes liability coverage, which protects you from financial responsibility if you injure someone else or damage their property in an accident.
2. Peace of mind
Knowing you have insurance coverage gives you peace of mind while driving. You can focus on the road without worrying about the potential financial consequences of accidents.
3. Roadside assistance
Many car insurance policies offer roadside assistance services as an optional extra. These are often priced below similar standalone services available in the market, and offer services such as towing, battery jumps, and tyre changes, which provide convenience and support should your car break down.
What are the risks of driving without insurance?
Driving without insurance is legal in New Zealand, but it still carries significant risks:
1. Financial liability
While not required by law, without insurance, you are personally responsible for any damages or injuries you cause in an accident. This could result in substantial out-of-pocket expenses, including any medical bills not covered by ACC and vehicle repair costs.
2. Limited protection
In the event of an accident, you could face significant financial losses without the coverage provided by insurance. Should you damage or write off your car, you will have to foot the bill for repairs, or for a replacement vehicle.
3. Difficulty getting assistance
In case of an accident that's not your fault, you may find it challenging to obtain financial assistance or compensation from the other driver yourself without the help of an insurance company.
Should you get car insurance?
Whether or not car insurance is legally required, signing up to an insurance policy offers valuable financial protection and peace of mind. Insurance can safeguard against significant expenses stemming from vehicle damage or legal liability. For those reliant on their vehicles or concerned about unforeseen financial burdens, investing in car insurance can provide essential security and mitigate risks associated with driving.
However, you may choose not to get car insurance if you can comfortably cover vehicle repair costs and liability claims out-of-pocket. If you rarely drive or if your vehicle is of minimal value, insurance may not be worth the premiums. However, it's crucial to consider the potential financial risks and legal requirements before deciding against insurance coverage, especially if you cannot afford unforeseen expenses.
