Auto Insurance Guide:

There are basically three types of insurance cover in the Bahamas - Road Act, Third party and Comprehensive.

Road Act is the minimum policy required by law. It covers your liability toward third parties in respect of death or injury resulting from your operation of a vehicle. This is the cheapest insurance you can buy, but it doesn't cover any risk to you, or your passengers, or your vehicle.

Third party insurance covers your liability to third parties in respect of death or injury, as well as damage to third party property (vehicles, walls, etc). You can add coverage for fire damage and theft of your vehicle.

Comprehensive insurance covers all of the above as well as loss of, or damage to, your own vehicle resulting from an accident. Extra benefits, such as protected no-claim discount, can be purchased with this type of policy. It is the broadest cover available, but some policies may exclude damage to your vehicle from a hurricane.

The cost of an insurance policy for your car depends on its value and the use to which it will be put. Other factors include the driver's age and driving record, the number of drivers and the age and condition of the vehicle are considered.

Further information can be obtained from the Bahamas General insurance Association - the trade grouping for general insurance agents and brokers in the Bahamas.