Tata AIG lists 19 optional add-ons to tailor a car insurance policy to individual needs

Every car owner's need for protection is different. Add-ons let a policyholder tailor a policy to the type of car, the budget and driving habits. Adding the right add-ons to an own damage or comprehensive plan can give protection over and above a standard policy.

Tata AIG offers several add-ons so that a car insurance plan can be bought to suit the owner's needs. Subject to policy terms, covers such as depreciation reimbursement, return to invoice and roadside assistance can be chosen. Each add-on handles a specific risk, so a policyholder can add what matters to them and build the cover they want.

Before choosing add-ons, check the car's age and model, how often it is driven and where the owner lives. For instance, those who often travel long distances can take roadside assistance cover, and if the car is new, depreciation reimbursement and return to invoice cover. The company also offers pre-set bundles to make choosing easier. This way the policyholder pays only for what they will actually use.

The depreciation reimbursement (zero depreciation) add-on reduces the depreciation amount deducted on covered parts during a claim. This can mean a higher claim amount for accident repairs. It is meant for cars up to 10 years old. It is useful for owners of new cars and for those who drive daily in accident-prone areas or heavy traffic.

The roadside assistance cover add-on provides help if the car breaks down, meets with an accident or faces another emergency on the road. Subject to policy terms, it includes help with a flat tyre, battery jump start and towing. It can be taken for cars up to 15 years old.

The consumable expenses add-on covers eligible costs incurred during repairs, such as engine oil, gearbox oil and lubricants. It saves the policyholder money on these additional costs when a car is repaired after an accident. It is for cars up to 10 years old and suits those who want more cover on repair costs.

The return to invoice add-on helps cover the difference between the car's insured declared value (IDV) and the on-road price of a similar new car in the event of theft or total loss. The on-road price includes road tax and registration charges. It is available for cars up to 5 years old. It is useful for those who want greater financial protection if they have to replace the vehicle.

The no claim bonus protection cover, subject to policy terms, helps protect the accumulated no claim bonus (NCB) after an eligible claim. This can give the policyholder the NCB discount on the own damage premium at renewal. It is also available for cars up to 10 years old.

The electric surge secure add-on covers an electric car and its charging equipment against damage from self-heating, arcing and short circuit. It also covers total loss up to the car's IDV. It can be taken for cars up to 5 years old.

There are also add-ons such as emergency medical expenses, key replacement, engine secure and tyre secure. Assess them against your driving habits, type of car and coverage needs. Before the final decision, compare the policy's exclusions, benefits and premium. Also check each add-on's eligibility conditions, as availability can vary with the vehicle and policy terms.

In all, Tata AIG offers 19 optional add-ons, and each car owner can choose protection to suit everyday needs. Subject to policy terms, adding covers such as roadside assistance, depreciation reimbursement and return to invoice reduces out-of-pocket costs. When buying car insurance online, these bundles can be viewed and combined on the Tata AIG website or mobile app, and there is no need to choose each add-on separately.