Are you looking for an insurance policy that provides basic protection for your vehicle without breaking the bank each month? Look no further than Hastings Essential. This comprehensive plan covers third-party damage, theft, and fire, making it an affordable option for drivers who want peace of mind without the added costs of more extensive coverage.
But just because Hastings Essential is an entry-level insurance option, doesn’t mean it skimps on features. The policy includes a range of benefits, such as a courtesy car if your vehicle is being repaired, windscreen repair/replacement, and even cover for personal belongings damaged or stolen as a result of a car accident. This level of care ensures you and your vehicle are protected while on the road, so you can focus on enjoying the ride, no matter where you’re headed.
With Hastings Essential, you get the benefits of reliable insurance protection without overspending. This policy prioritizes affordability while still including all the necessary coverage essentials to keep you and your vehicle safe in the event of an accident. Keep reading to find out more about what Hastings Essential has to offer, and get ready to hit the road with confidence.
Hastings Essential Car Insurance Overview
Hastings Essential is a popular car insurance policy option for UK drivers who are looking for basic coverage that doesn’t break the bank. This insurance policy offers the minimum legal requirement for driving on UK roads and is a great option for those who have an older car or a low-value vehicle.
Key features of the Hastings Essential policy include:
- Third party cover – covers damage and injury to other people and their property, but not your own
- 24/7 claims helpline – for emergencies and making claims
- Flexible payment options – including annual or monthly payments
Although this policy is designed to provide basic coverage, there are still some additional features that may be included, such as:
- Legal cover – provides assistance in legal matters such as disputes and uninsured loss recovery
- Breakdown cover – covers assistance in the event of a breakdown
- Personal accident cover – covers you and named drivers in the event of injury or death following a car accident
It is important to note that these additional features may come with extra costs and are not always included in the standard policy. It’s important to read the policy documents before purchasing to ensure you have the coverage you need.
Below is a table of the cover provided with Hastings Essential:
| Cover | Description |
|---|---|
| Third party only | Covers damage to others and their property, but not your own car |
| 24/7 claims helpline | Assistance in making claims and handling emergencies |
| Legal cover | Provides assistance in legal matters such as disputes and uninsured loss recovery |
| Breakdown cover | Covers assistance in the event of a breakdown |
| Personal accident cover | Covers you and named drivers in the event of injury or death following a car accident |
In conclusion, Hastings Essential car insurance is a great option for those looking for basic coverage at an affordable price. It’s important to carefully read the policy documents to ensure the coverage meets your needs.
Coverage Limits of Hastings Essential Car Insurance
As a policyholder of Hastings Essential Car Insurance, it’s essential to know the coverage limits of your insurance policy to ensure you have adequate protection in the event of an accident or other covered event. Hastings Essential Car Insurance provides standard coverages similar to other insurers, but the specifics of each policy differ regarding the limits of coverage and applicable deductibles.
- Bodily Injury Liability – If you’re found at fault for an accident and others are injured, Hastings Essential Car Insurance will pay for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering up to the coverage limits you purchased. Hastings Essential Car Insurance offers liability bodily injury limits up to £10 million.
- Property Damage Liability – If you damage someone’s property, Hastings Essential Car Insurance will pay to repair or replace it. The company offers coverage limits up to £20 million.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage – If you’re involved in an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver and suffer injuries or property damage, this coverage pays for medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs. The coverage for uninsured/underinsured motorists is limited to £1 million.
Hastings Essential Car Insurance offers optional add-ons to increase your coverage limits for an additional cost. These add-ons include comprehensive and collision coverage, legal expense coverage, key cover, and breakdown cover.
To help policyholders better understand their limits of coverage, the following table illustrates the coverage limits offered by Hastings Essential Car Insurance:
| Coverage Type | Coverage Limit |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury Liability | Up to £10 million |
| Property Damage Liability | Up to £20 million |
| Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage | Up to £1 million |
Overall, Hastings Essential Car Insurance provides competitive coverage limits to help protect you and your vehicle in the event of an accident or other covered event.
Personalized Options for Hastings Essential Car Insurance
When it comes to car insurance, customers want options that meet their individual needs and budget. Hastings Essential Car Insurance offers personalized options that allow customers to choose coverage options tailored to their specific situations. Here are the top three personalized options available through Hastings Essential:
- Third-Party Fire and Theft Cover: This option covers damages caused by theft or fire to a third party’s vehicle or property. It also includes coverage for damages caused by your vehicle to a third party’s property or vehicle in an accident. This option is ideal for drivers who want more coverage than simple third-party liability insurance.
- Voluntary Excess: With a voluntary excess option, policyholders can choose to pay a higher deductible in exchange for lower monthly payments. This option is ideal for drivers who are confident in their driving abilities and are willing to take on the risk of a higher deductible.
- European Cover: This option provides coverage for drivers who plan to travel in the European Union. With European cover, policyholders can legally drive in EU countries and be covered for damages caused by their vehicle to third-party property or vehicles.
Additional Benefits with Hastings Essential Car Insurance
In addition to the personalized coverage options, Hastings Essential Car Insurance offers a range of additional benefits that make it a popular choice for policyholders. Here are some of the benefits that come with Hastings Essential:
- 24/7 Claims Handling: Policyholders can report accidents and file claims anytime, day or night, thanks to the 24/7 claims handling service at Hastings Essential. This ensures that customers get the assistance they need when they need it most.
- Courtesy Car: In the event of an accident, Hastings Essential provides a courtesy car as standard for policyholders, meaning they won’t be left without transportation while their vehicle is being repaired.
- No Claims Discount: Hastings Essential rewards safe drivers with a no-claims discount of up to 75% off their premium. This discount increases over time as policyholders continue to drive safely.
Comparing Coverage Options with Hastings Essential Car Insurance
Choosing the right car insurance coverage can be a challenge, but Hastings Essential makes it easy with a comprehensive coverage comparison tool. This tool allows customers to compare the costs and benefits of different coverage options side by side, so they can make an informed decision about the coverage that’s right for them.
| Type of Coverage | Benefits | Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Third-party Liability | Covers damages caused to third-party property or vehicles in an accident. | No |
| Third-Party Fire and Theft | Covers damages caused to a third party’s vehicle or property due to fire or theft. Also includes coverage for damages caused by your vehicle to a third party’s property or vehicle in an accident. | Yes |
| Comprehensive | Covers damages caused to your vehicle, third-party property or vehicles in an accident, and damages caused by fire or theft to your vehicle. | Yes |
As shown in the comparison table above, the level of coverage offered varies depending on the policy. Hastings Essential Car Insurance empowers its customers to choose the policy that’s right for them.
Hastings Essential Optional Add-On Coverage
When it comes to car insurance, Hastings Essential offers a range of add-on coverage options to enhance your policy and provide greater protection for you and your vehicle. Here’s a closer look at the different optional add-on coverage options available:
1. Breakdown Assistance
- 24/7 breakdown assistance
- Roadside assistance and recovery
- Home start assistance
Breakdowns can happen at any time, so it’s important to have the right coverage in place for peace of mind on the road. With Hastings Essential’s Breakdown Assistance, you’ll have access to help whenever you need it, with services including 24/7 breakdown assistance, roadside assistance, and home start assistance.
2. Legal Expenses
- Up to £100,000 legal expenses cover
- Cover for legal fees and expenses in the event of an accident or claim
- Access to legal advice and support
In the event of an accident or claim, legal expenses can quickly add up, leaving you with a significant financial burden. Hastings Essential’s Legal Expenses add-on coverage provides up to £100,000 in legal expenses cover, as well as access to legal advice and support when you need it most.
3. Personal Accident
While nobody wants to think about being involved in a car accident, it’s important to be prepared for the worst. With Hastings Essential’s Personal Accident add-on coverage, you’ll have financial protection in the event of an accidental injury or death while driving or as a passenger in your vehicle.
4. Keycare Cover
Your car keys are a vital part of your daily life, so losing them can be a frustrating and costly experience. Hastings Essential’s Keycare Cover add-on coverage can help to protect you against the cost of replacing lost or stolen car keys, as well as providing access to 24/7 emergency helplines to assist you in the event of an emergency.
| Keycare Cover Benefits | Annual Limit |
|---|---|
| 24/7 emergency helpline | Up to £1,500 |
| Replacement locks and keys | Up to £1,500 |
| Transport and accommodation | Up to £50 per day / £500 in total |
| No excess to pay | – |
With Keycare Cover, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’ll be covered in the event of lost or stolen car keys, and won’t be left with a hefty bill to replace them. Plus, with access to emergency helplines and financial coverage for transport and accommodation expenses, you’ll be able to get back on the road quickly and easily.
Hastings Essential Claims Process
Submitting a claim can be a daunting task, especially when dealing with unexpected expenses. Hastings Essential understands the stress that comes with making a claim and strives to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible for their customers.
What Does Hastings Essential Cover?
- Hastings Essential covers damages caused to other parties involved in an accident that is determined to be your fault.
- They also cover damages caused to your own car in the event of fire, theft or attempted theft, and vandalism.
- Additionally, Hastings Essential offers optional extras including legal expenses cover, personal accident cover, and breakdown cover for an additional cost.
The Claims Process
Should you need to make a claim with Hastings Essential, it is important to know what to expect during the claims process. Here is an overview of the process:
- Report the incident: Whether you’ve been in an accident or your car has been stolen, report it to Hastings Essential as soon as possible by calling their 24-hour claims line.
- Provide necessary information: You will be asked to provide details about the incident, your car, and any other parties involved. Be sure to have your policy number and driver’s license handy.
- Assessment of damages: Depending on the extent of the damage, Hastings Essential may send a representative to assess the damage to your car and provide an estimate for repairs.
- Settlement: Once all necessary information has been gathered, Hastings Essential will work to settle the claim as quickly and fairly as possible, ensuring that you receive the necessary funds for repairs.
Hastings Essential Claims Table
For a breakdown of what Hastings Essential covers and doesn’t cover, see the table below:
| COVERED | NOT COVERED |
|---|---|
| Damage to other parties involved in an accident that is determined to be your fault. | Damage caused by general wear and tear. |
| Damage caused to your own car in the event of fire, theft or attempted theft, and vandalism. | Damage caused by mechanical breakdown or failure. |
| Optional extras, including legal expenses cover, personal accident cover, and breakdown cover (at an additional cost). | Damage caused by driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. |
It is important to review your policy to ensure that you have the coverage you need in the event of an incident.
Hastings Essential Customer Satisfaction Ratings
As a customer, it’s important to know the quality of service and level of satisfaction other customers have experienced with an insurance provider. Hastings Essential is no exception, and their customer satisfaction ratings can help you make an informed decision when shopping for insurance.
- In a recent survey conducted by Defaqto, Hastings Essential received a 3-star rating out of 5 for “fair” product features and benefits.
- According to a survey by Consumer Intelligence, Hastings Essential scored an overall customer satisfaction rating of 7.9 out of 10.
- Hastings Essential was rated as the 15th best car insurance provider in the UK out of 47 providers, according to a survey by Which? in 2021.
While these ratings provide helpful insights into the level of customer satisfaction with Hastings Essential, it’s essential to note that they are subjective and may vary based on individual experiences and needs.
Here is a breakdown of some of the areas where Hastings Essential provides cover:
| Cover type | What’s included |
|---|---|
| Third party only | covers damages and injury to third parties and their vehicles |
| Third party fire and theft | includes third party only, plus covers fire damage and theft |
| Comprehensive | includes third party fire and theft, plus covers damage to your own vehicle in accidents and other incidents such as vandalism |
In addition to these types of cover, Hastings Essential also offers optional extras such as breakdown cover, legal protection and personal accident cover.
Hastings Essential Discounts and Savings Opportunities
When it comes to car insurance, the cost can quickly add up, especially if you have multiple drivers or a less than perfect driving record. However, with Hastings Essential car insurance, there are several discounts and savings opportunities available to help you lower your insurance premium and protect your wallet. Here are some of the discounts and savings offered by Hastings Essential:
- Multi-car discount: If you have more than one car to insure, Hastings Essential offers a multi-car discount of up to 10% off your insurance premium. This discount makes it easier and more affordable to insure all of your vehicles under one policy.
- Low mileage discount: If you do not drive your car frequently, you may qualify for a low mileage discount. The discount is calculated based on the number of miles you drive and can be up to 40% off your insurance premium.
- Telematics discount: Hastings Essential offers a telematics policy, which uses a black box to track your driving and adjust your premium based on how safely you drive. If you are a safe driver, you can earn a discount of up to 21% off your insurance premium.
In addition to these discounts, Hastings Essential also offers other savings opportunities, such as:
- No claims discount: If you have not made a claim on your car insurance for a certain period of time, you may be eligible for a no claims discount. The longer you go without making a claim, the higher your discount will be.
- Paperless billing discount: If you choose to receive your bills and policy documents online instead of by mail, you may qualify for a paperless billing discount.
- Pay in full discount: If you choose to pay your premium in full instead of in installments, you may be eligible for a pay-in-full discount.
If you are unsure if you qualify for any of these discounts or savings opportunities, it is worth speaking to a representative from Hastings Essential to see if there are any ways you can lower your insurance premium and save money in the long run.
| Discount/Savings | Amount |
|---|---|
| Multi-car discount | Up to 10% off |
| Low mileage discount | Up to 40% off |
| Telematics discount | Up to 21% off |
| No claims discount | Varies based on time without claims |
| Paperless billing discount | Varies by policy |
| Pay in full discount | Varies by policy |
Overall, Hastings Essential offers several discounts and savings opportunities that can help you save money on your car insurance premium. It’s important to review your policy regularly and check with the company to see if you qualify for any new discounts or savings that may be available.
FAQs: What does Hastings Essential cover?
1. Does Hastings Essential provide comprehensive coverage?
Yes, Hastings Essential provides comprehensive coverage, which includes accidental damage, fire, theft, and vandalism.
2. Does Hastings Essential cover windscreen damage?
Yes, windscreen damage is covered under the Hastings Essential policy.
3. Can I add additional drivers to my Hastings Essential policy?
Yes, additional drivers can be added to the policy, but this may result in an increase in the premium.
4. Does Hastings Essential provide personal injury coverage?
Yes, personal injury coverage is provided under the policy to cover medical expenses and lost wages.
5. Is breakdown cover included in the Hastings Essential policy?
Breakdown cover is not included in the Hastings Essential policy, but it can be added as an optional extra.
6. Does Hastings Essential provide coverage for driving abroad?
Yes, Hastings Essential provides coverage for driving abroad in most European countries.
7. What is the excess on the Hastings Essential policy?
The excess varies depending on the specific policy, but it is typically between £250 and £500.
Thanks for choosing Hastings Essential!
We hope this article has provided you with the information you need about what Hastings Essential covers. If you have any further questions or would like to get a quote, please visit our website or give us a call. We appreciate your business and hope to serve you in the future!