It is the beginning of the year, the right time to make revisions and prepare yourself for the upcoming risks and uncertainties. As a car owner, it is your responsibility to obtain an effective car insurance policy that includes not only basic CTPL coverage but also comprehensive and add-on coverages. The latter will ensure adequate protection for your passenger vehicle and you against events such as flooding, typhoons, accidental damage, animal collisions, and vandalism.
While many drivers are well-versed in CTPL and comprehensive insurance, we are here to talk about add-ons. It’s essential to do so because add-ons help to bridge the gap between basic coverage and real-world risks.
This year, make car ownership about not just having & enjoying your vehicle, but about protecting your investment. Remember, the right add-on can save you thousands of pesos in repairs and other unexpected expenses.
So, read carefully…
Car insurance add-ons for urban drivers
Urban driving presents its own challenges; for instance, in cities such as Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao, drivers face heavy traffic and narrow roads & turns.
Personal accident coverage: This coverage provides medical or death benefits for the driver and passengers. It is ideal for families and daily commuters.
Theft and malicious damage protection: Urban areas are at a higher risk of car theft and vandalism. This add-on covers loss or damage caused by criminal acts.
Own-damage protection: City traffic increases the risk of a minor accident or collision. This add-on covers repair costs, even if you’re not at fault.
Third-party property damage: This add-on covers damages to other vehicles, buildings, or property; it is beneficial if you commute on crowded streets.
Also Read: New year, new coverage: Rethink your car insurance with Zen Insure
Car insurance add-ons for typhoon & flood protection
Flooding is one of the biggest threats to vehicles nationwide. Here are a few add-ons that can help -
Acts of Nature coverage: This add-on covers damage caused by floods, typhoons, earthquakes, and landslides; a standard insurance policy does not cover these events. It is a must-have coverage, especially for low-lying areas.
Engine protection coverage: Floodwater can damage engines, and with this add-on, car owners are free from the burden of engine repair and replacement costs.
Tip: If you live in a low-lying area, consider investing in flood-resistant vehicle accessories, such as raised floor mats, waterproof seat covers, and sealed wiring systems.
Photo from FreepikAlso Read: Personal Accident Coverage for riders in the Philippines: Why it matters
Car insurance add-ons every policyholder must consider
Here are a few add-ons a car owner must consider -
Roadside assistance coverage: Breakdown can happen anytime, with this coverage, one can enjoy facilities like towing, battery jump-starts, flat-tyre, and emergency fuel delivery
Zero depreciation add-on: Without this add-on, the provider deducts depreciation from the claim. This way, you will receive the full claim value, which will come in handy during hard times.
Personal accident coverage: This add-on provides medical expenses or death benefits for the driver and passengers, serving as an essential safety net for the policyholder.
Also Read: Top 5 myths about Acts of God insurance coverage (Busted!)
Are add-ons worth the cost: A practical breakdown
Cost vs. risk analysis
Add-ons may slightly increase your car insurance premium, but they protect against high-cost risks. By paying a few hundred pesos, you can save thousands in the long run.
When add-ons save money
If you drive daily, often park outside, or live in flood-prone areas, add-on coverages almost always pay for themselves.
Common mistakes Filipino car owners make (when shopping for add-ons)
- Skipping flood coverage to save money
- Not reviewing add-ons yearly
- Assuming a basic insurance policy covers everything
- Choosing add-ons without assessing driving habits
By avoiding these mistakes, you can make a wise decision that protects you and your finances.
How to choose the right add-ons (for city drivers)
To choose appropriate add-on coverage, a car owner must ask the following questions -
- Do I drive daily in traffic?
- Do I park on the street or in an open area?
- Is my area low-lying or flood-prone?
If your answer is ‘yes’ to any one of the above questions, you’ll surely benefit from a car insurance add-on that suits your lifestyle.
Best vehicle add-on for car owners
Photo from FreepikWhat is a vehicle add-on? It refers to physical enhancements, such as sensors and dashcams. Like insurance add-ons, this one provides financial protection to the car owner.
Apart from car insurance add-ons, a car owner should also invest in gear for their vehicle -
- Dashcams: They provide video evidence for accidents, road rage incidents, or insurance claims. They’ll help to resolve disputes quickly.
- Parking assist & sensors: With limited parking space, sensors and cameras reduce the risk of dents, scratches, and costly repairs.
- Theft protection & GPS tracker: Car theft remains a common concern; a GPS tracker helps locate stolen vehicles and may even lower the premium.
Also Read: Dashcams and car insurance claims: What Filipino drivers need to know
Bottom line
Including the must-have car insurance add-ons in your policy is about being prepared, not spending more. With rising risks of car accidents, heavy traffic, and extreme weather, add-ons provide car owners with protection and peace of mind. Make sure to select add-ons that match your lifestyle and location, so that you can drive confidently into 2026 and be ready for whatever the road brings.
FAQs
Q1. Are car insurance add-ons mandatory in the Philippines?
Ans. No, add-ons are optional, but highly recommended for better protection.
Q2. Is flood coverage part of standard car insurance coverage?
Ans. No, for coverage against flood and other natural disasters, you must add Acts of God coverage separately.
Q3. Which insurance add-on is recommended for city driving?
Ans. City drivers can opt for the following coverages: Acts of Nature, Personal Accident, Personal Belongings, and Loss of Use.
Q4. Do add-ons increase insurance premiums?
Ans. Yes, though slightly, add-ons increase the premium, but it is nothing compared to the benefits.
Q5. Can I include add-ons in my car insurance policy?
Ans. Yes. Most insurance providers allow policyholders to add add-ons to their policies at renewal and mid-term.
Q6. Is engine protection worth it?
Ans. Yes, especially if you drive or reside in a flood-prone area.
Q7. Do GPS trackers lower insurance costs?
Ans. Yes, some insurance providers offer discounts to vehicles with anti-theft devices.
Q8. How can I compare car insurance add-ons?
Ans. You can compare car insurance add-ons through third-party platforms, or your agent can also help you with this task.
Also Read: Top 8 defensive driving tips for Filipino drivers to stay safe and save on insurance
