Third-Party Only

What Is Third Party Motor Insurance?

Third Party Motor Insurance is a motor insurance policy that covers damage or injury you cause to other people (third parties) while using your vehicle on the road.

What Does Third Party Motor Insurance Cover in Kenya?

Third party cover mainly protects you against legal and financial liability when you cause an accident that affects someone else.

✅ 1) Injury or Death of Third Parties

If your vehicle causes an accident and another person is injured (or dies), third party insurance helps cover:

• Medical costs (where applicable)
• Compensation claims (depending on legal liability)
• Court-awarded damages

This can include:

• Pedestrians
• Passengers in another vehicle
• Drivers of other vehicles
• Cyclists and boda boda riders

✅ 2) Damage to Third Party Property

This usually includes damage to:

• Another person’s vehicle
• A fence, gate, shopfront, wall, or building
• Public property (depending on the incident and insurer’s policy)

What Third Party Motor Insurance Does NOT Cover

This is the most important part to understand.

❌ 1) Your Own Vehicle (Policy Owner)

Third Party insurance does not pay for repairs to:

• Your own car
• Your motorcycle
• Your insured vehicle’s damage after an accident

If you want protection for your own vehicle, you need:

• ✅ Comprehensive cover or
• ✅ Third Party Fire & Theft (partial protection)

❌ 2) Theft of Your Vehicle

If your car is stolen: Third party insurance will not compensate you.

❌ 3) Fire Damage to Your Vehicle

If your vehicle is damaged by fire: Third party insurance will not pay for repairs or replacement.

❌ 4) Personal Accident Cover for the Driver

Some people assume third party pays for the driver’s hospital bills. In most cases, the driver is not covered under third party unless you have additional benefits (optional add-ons).

Limits of Third Party Insurance Coverage in Kenya (Very Important)

Many policyholders assume third party covers “everything” once they cause an accident. But most third party policies come with limits.

✅ Common Limits You May Find in Third Party Cover

Third party cover often has a maximum payout limit for:

Why Third Party Motor Insurance Is Important in Kenya

Third party cover is important because accidents can cause serious costs, such as:

• expensive third-party vehicle repairs
• injury compensation claims
• legal and court-related claims

Without insurance, you may be forced to pay these costs personally.

✅ Third party cover helps you stay compliant and financially protected against liabilities to other people.

Who Should Consider Third Party Motor Insurance?

Third party is a good option if:

• ✅ You want the most affordable legal cover
• ✅ Your vehicle is older and you’re okay paying for your own repairs
• ✅ You are mostly focused on protecting yourself from third-party liabilities
• ✅ You drive short distances and want basic compliance

However, if your vehicle value is high, third party may not be the safest option.

Comparison: Third Party vs Other Motor Insurance Types in Kenya

Many Kenyans assume there’s only “third party” and “comprehensive.” But in reality, there are 3 common options:

1) Third Party Only (Basic Cover)

✅ Covers: Injury/death to third parties, Damage to third-party property

❌ Does NOT cover: Your own vehicle damage, Your theft loss, Fire damage to your car

Best for: Low-value cars, Budget-conscious owners, Legal compliance needs

2) Third Party Fire & Theft (Mid-Level Cover)

✅ Covers: Injury/death to third parties, Damage to third-party property, Fire damage to your vehicle, Theft of your vehicle

❌ Does NOT cover: Accidental damage to your own vehicle (from collisions)

Best for: Cars you want to protect from theft/fire, Owners who want more security than basic third party

3) Comprehensive Motor Insurance (Full Cover)

✅ Covers: Everything in third party, Accidental damage to your own vehicle, Theft (depending on policy), Fire, Optional add-ons (windscreen, excess protector, roadside rescue)

Best for: Newer cars, Higher-value vehicles, Drivers who want peace of mind

Common Mistakes People Make With Third Party Cover

Here are mistakes we frequently see:

• ❌ Thinking third party covers your own car repairs
• ❌ Assuming there is no payout limit
• ❌ Not reporting an accident on time
• ❌ Driving without confirming policy wording
• ❌ Not understanding the claims process for third party damage

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1) Is third party motor insurance mandatory in Kenya?

Yes. It is the minimum legal requirement for vehicles using public roads.

2) Does third party cover the owner of the policy?

No. ✅ Third party does not cover the policy owner’s car damage. It covers only third parties.

3) Does third party cover passengers?

It depends on the insurer and policy wording. Some cases may fall under third party bodily injury, but it’s best to confirm directly.

4) How much does third party insurance cost in Kenya?

The cost depends on: vehicle type, insurer, use (private vs commercial). ✅ The best approach is to request a quote.

Conclusion: Third Party Covers Others, Not You

Third Party Motor Insurance is a valuable cover—but only when you clearly understand what it does.

• ✅ It protects you financially when you cause damage or injury to other people
• ❌ It does not repair your car
• ✅ It may have limits per person or per accident
• ✅ It’s best for low-value vehicles or basic legal compliance

If you want stronger protection, consider Third Party Fire & Theft or Comprehensive cover.