Car Insurance Policy FAQ's

We know looking for the right car insurance policy can drive you round the bend. So to help give you a steer we've jotted down some of the questions we always get asked. Have a read, but if you've got any more questions, give us a call on 1890 30 20 20 or 01 4003400.

What is the breakdown assist number?

If you've purchased breakdown assistance through us with Mapfre and need roadside assistance now, please give us a call on: 1800 404 444. Our friendly team is on standby 24 hours a day to take your call, so you can get back on the road and complete your journey.

What is third party and third party fire & theft?

Third party insurance is the most basic level of cover for your car. It insures you against claims made against you, such as damaged property, as well as personal injury. If you opt for third party fire & theft it gives the basic cover plus fire, theft or attempted theft damage to your car.

What about comprehensive insurance?

This cover incorporates third party, fire and theft cover and also includes accidental damage to your car. For example if your car is damaged while parked you can claim from your policy for accidental damage. Comprehensive cover normally includes cover for windscreen repairs and breakdown rescue too. There's also good news if you're a careful driver. Lots of insurance companies we work with offer discounts to people who have no claims or penalty points.

If I've previously been a named driver on another person's policy, will I still be eligible for a no claims bonus?

You certainly will. Most companies we work with give a no claims discount which is based on the number of full years that you've been a named driver. It's pretty straight forward. Your driving experience must be current and you must be claim free. You'll just need to provide proof of your continuous driving history with a letter from the insurance provider.

We have two cars in the family - can I get a discount?

You may be able to get a discount if your spouse or partner has use of a company car full time or the car is insured in their name. If you'd like to find out more do give us a call on 1890 30 20 20 or 01 4003400.

I'm thinking of buying a second vehicle - will I be able to use my no claims bonus again?

Unfortunately you won't. You can only use your bonus with one vehicle at any one time. But you will be able to start earning another no claim bonus if you take out a policy for a 2nd car.

What does DOC stand for?

It means driving other cars. This type of cover means the policy holder can drive a car which isn't owned by them, their spouse, an employer or hired by them. DOC is not available for all policies and the cover is always third party only.

If I'm a named driver can I drive someone else's car?

No you won't be covered as a named driver. When the driving of other cars cover is provided, it's only available to the policyholder.

Can you explain what a policy excess is?

Of course. All polices carry some form of excess. It is the amount not covered by your policy. For instance, if your excess is for €300 and you're claiming for €3,000, the insurance settlement that you receive will be €2,700. Sometimes you can get a discount on your insurance by increasing the policy excess.

If I have a comprehensive policy does this mean I have open driving?

No it doesn't. To be covered for open driving you'll have to request it from your insurance company.

Is it possible to cancel my policy?

Yes. We'd love to keep each and every customer, but realise occasionally people may want to cancel. You can do this at any time. All you need to do is return your insurance certificate and disc along with a written request to cancel your policy. We'll arrange the cancellation once we receive your documents. Do check the cost of cancellation, particularly if the policy is cancelled within the first year. The insurance contract is for 12 months, if you cancel within the first year you may be penalised and charged short periodrates for terminating the contract early.

You deal with loads of insurance companies - what security do they have?

You'll be pleased to hear that the Central Bank of Ireland regulates all the insurance companies we work with.

Do insurance companies keep my quote details?

No way. Your personal information is very important to us and we pride ourselves on looking after it responsibly. We promise that we'll only send your details to the insurer that you have chosen to proceed with - and nobody else.

How safe is it to use my credit card on the Chill Insurance website?

Extremely safe! We've invested heavily in industry leading encryption technology through SSL. This means that all personal information and credit card details will be kept safe.