Is it true that I can be fined if I do not have motor insurance?
Lalit Masta, Kolkata
Yes, it is true that without valid third party insurance you cannot ply your vehicle on the roads. Doing so is a traffic offence and you could be penalised for the same. At the same time, a comprehensive motor insurance is optional. The insured is the first party, the insurance company is the second party and all others are third parties. Third Party (or Liability Only) policy covers Third Party Liability (TPL) for bodily injury and/or death and property damage. Personal accident cover for owner-driver is also included. This cover is mandatory under the Motor Vehicles Act. A certificate of insurance must be carried in the vehicle at all times. Comprehensive insurance, as the word suggests, is comprehensive and in addition to third party also includes loss or damage to the insured vehicle and its accessories in the event of fire, theft, earthquake, riot, terrorist activities, floods etc.
