Why do I need car insurance?

Car insurance is both a legal requirement and one of the most important financial protections you can have as a driver in Ireland. Under the Road Traffic Act 1961, anyone driving on a public road must have at least third-party motor insurance. Beyond the legal obligation, a single accident can result in repair bills, medical expenses, or third-party compensation claims running into tens of thousands of euro, and insurance absorbs that risk so you are not facing it alone. Without cover you would be personally liable for any damage or injury you cause, and you would be breaking the law every time you drove.

What is the cheapest type of car insurance in Ireland?

Third-party only is usually the cheapest, but it offers limited protection. Many drivers find third-party fire & theft a better balance of cost and cover.

Can young drivers get affordable cover?

Yes. We work with insurers who specialise in young and learner driver policies, helping to reduce premiums through tailored options.

How does a no-claims bonus work?

For every year you drive without making a claim, you earn a discount on your premium. We can help protect your bonus with full or step-back protection.

How quickly can I get insured with Dickson & Wilson?

Most drivers receive a quote in minutes and can be insured the same day.

What types of car and van insurance cover are available?

There are three main types of motor insurance. Comprehensive covers damage to your own vehicle and third-party claims. Third Party, Fire & Theft covers third-party claims plus loss if your vehicle is stolen or damaged by fire. Third Party Only covers damage you cause to other people or their property and is the minimum legal requirement in Ireland. Choosing the right level depends on your vehicle value, budget, and how much protection you want.

How can I get a same-day insurance quote?

To get a same-day quote, provide your details (vehicle type, usage, driving history) by calling the office. Many insurers return quotes quickly, often within hours. We compare multiple providers to find you the best option fast.

What affects my car or van insurance premium?

Premiums are influenced by your age and driving experience, your no-claims history, the vehicle make, model and engine size, where the vehicle is parked overnight, and your annual mileage and usage (personal or business). We help explain how these factors impact your cost and how you might reduce premiums.

Is van insurance different for business use versus personal use?

Yes. Business use insurance covers activities like deliveries, site visits, or transporting equipment. Personal use is limited to commuting or private travel. It is essential to choose the correct usage type, as incorrect use can invalidate claims.

Can I make changes to my policy mid-term (e.g. add a driver)?

Yes — you can usually update your policy mid-term to add a driver, change usage, or update vehicle details. Contact us and we will advise whether a mid-term adjustment or a new quote is more cost-effective.

What is the difference between buildings and contents insurance?

Building insurance covers the structure of your home (walls, roof, floors). Contents insurance covers your belongings inside the home (furniture, electronics). You can take either separately or as a combined policy for full protection.

Does home insurance cover accidental damage?

Some policies include accidental damage cover, which protects against unforeseen incidents such as spilling paint on carpets. It is optional, so check the policy details or ask us to include it.

Is home insurance legally required in Ireland?

Home insurance is not legally mandated, but if you have a mortgage your lender will require buildings cover. Contents cover is strongly recommended for peace of mind.

What types of travel insurance are available?

Common types include single-trip (covers one trip), annual multi-trip (covers multiple trips over a year), and backpacker cover (longer overseas stays with flexible terms). Choose the type based on your travel frequency and length.

Does travel insurance cover medical emergencies?

Yes — most policies include emergency medical and hospital costs. Always check the maximum cover limit before travelling to avoid unexpected bills.

Can I change or extend my travel insurance after purchase?

Yes, many policies allow extensions or changes such as a longer stay. Contact us before your original policy expires to avoid gaps in cover.

What happens if I cancel my trip?

If you cancel for a covered reason such as health issues or bereavement, you may be eligible for reimbursement of non-refundable costs. Terms vary, so check your policy wording.

What is fleet insurance, and why do I need it?

Fleet insurance covers multiple vehicles under one policy. It simplifies renewal, improves management, and often reduces cost compared with individual policies.

Can I insure mixed fleets of cars and vans under one policy?

Yes, many insurers allow mixed fleets on one policy. We will shop around for competitive pricing and proper classification for each vehicle type.

Are there discounts for insuring multiple vehicles?

Yes — fleet discounts are common and can significantly reduce overall premiums. We help identify the best combination of vehicles to maximise savings.

What types of business insurance cover might I need?

Depending on your business, you might need public liability, employers' liability, professional indemnity, commercial property, business interruption, or legal expenses cover. We will assess your risks and recommend suitable cover.

What is public liability insurance and who needs it?

Public liability protects your business if a third party suffers injury or property damage due to your business activities. It is essential for customer-facing businesses, tradespeople, and events.

What does employers' liability insurance cover?

This covers employee injury or illness claims related to work. It is legally required if you employ staff.

What is product liability insurance?

Product liability protects your business if a customer is harmed by a product you supply or manufacture. This is important for retailers, manufacturers, and distributors.

How Electric Vehicles Can Affect Your Car Insurance

Electric vehicles are becoming more common on local roads, and many drivers are now thinking about making the switch. If you’re considering one, or have already bought one, it’s important to understand how this might affect your car insurance.

At Dickson & Wilson Insurance Brokers NI, we’re here to make insurance simple. Here’s what you need to know if you’re driving an electric vehicle—or thinking about it.

Is insurance more expensive for electric vehicles?

Sometimes, but not always. Because electric vehicles tend to have newer technology and more specialised parts, repairs can be more expensive—especially if the battery or internal systems are damaged.

However, not all electric vehicles are costly to insure. Your premium will also depend on your driving history, the model, and how the vehicle is used. We’ll help you find the best policy based on your specific needs.

Are there discounts for electric vehicles?

Yes, some insurers offer discounts for low-emission or environmentally friendly vehicles. These offers aren’t always widely advertised, so working with a broker can help ensure you’re getting the full benefit.

At Dickson & Wilson Insurance NI, we check across a range of insurers to help find the best deal for you.

What should your policy include?

As with any car, you can choose from third-party, third-party fire & theft, or fully comprehensive cover. For electric vehicles, you might also want to make sure the policy includes:

Cover for the battery – especially if it’s leased separately

Protection for charging cables or wall units – in case of theft or accidental damage

Breakdown assistance – with support specifically for electric vehicles

We’ll explain all your options in plain terms so you can make the right choice.

Hybrid vehicles and car insurance

If you’re driving a hybrid vehicle, whether it’s plug-in or self-charging, your insurance needs may differ slightly from those of fully electric cars. Hybrids typically cost less to insure than electric-only vehicles, but they may still require specialist parts or repairs. Many insurers here now offer competitive premiums for hybrid drivers—especially those with good driving records or low annual mileage. At Dickson & Wilson Insurance Brokers NI, we’ll compare the market to ensure your hybrid is properly protected, with optional extras like battery cover and tailored breakdown assistance.

Charging at home? Let us know.

If you’ve installed (or plan to install) a home charging unit, you should let your insurer know. It may also affect your home insurance. We can guide you through both policies to make sure everything’s covered properly.