Man in wheelchair next to his car

Best Car Insurance for Disabled Drivers in the UAE

Living with a disability poses unique challenges, but increased accessibility initiatives in the UAE, like designated parking and free vehicle licenses, enable more independent driving. However, with this enhanced mobility comes the responsibility to securing the right car insurance.

Understanding the Basics of Car Insurance for Disabled Drivers

Handicap-accessible vehicles need specific modifications, from wheelchair ramps, hand controls to an electric tailgate. When looking for insurance options, it’s important to inform the insurance provider about these modifications for a more complete coverage.

Top Factors That Affect Car Insurance Rates

Insuring your car is a necessary expense for any driver and vehicle owner, disabled or not. The cost can vary depending on several factors. Understanding what these are can help you decide on which insurance is the best for you.

Risk consideration

Car insurance companies consider your driving record when calculating your insurance rates. If you have a history of traffic violations and accidents, you’ll most likely be considered a high-risk driver and have higher insurance rates.

In some cases, insurance companies might consider a disabled driver a high risk. As such, higher premiums will be charged. A disabled driver is also considered high-risk regardless of driving record if he/she suffers from:

  • Vision and hearing disability
  • Paralysis
  • Epilepsy

Age and Experience

Your age also affects your car insurance rates. Generally, younger drivers have higher insurance rates than older drivers. Young drivers are involved more in accidents. In 2022, 41% of fatal accidents and 53% of injuries in the UAE are because of young drivers

Your years of driving experience is also a factor since new drivers are also prone to driving. For the same year, new drivers in the UAE accounted for 530 out of 3,945 major accidents. Not to worry though, as you get older and gain more driving experience, your insurance rates may decrease.

Type of vehicle

Cars with high safety ratings and lower repair costs are cheaper to insure. Luxury cars and sports cars have higher insurance rates because of their market price and increased risk of theft.

Insurance rates for disabled drivers may also vary not only because of vehicle type but because of additional rates for handicap vehicle modifications made on their vehicle.

Reading Suggestion: The Best Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles & Modifications

Coverage options

The type and amount of coverage you choose definitely affect your car’s insurance rates. 

Third-Party Car Insurance

Third-Party Car Insurance is less extensive than Comprehensive coverage, covering only repair and injury expenses for a third-party vehicle and driver in an accident you caused. It does not cover injuries or damages to your own vehicle.

Comprehensive Car Insurance

This insurance is the recommended car insurance for disabled drivers. Disabled drivers may find this insurance beneficial. It covers damage to their own vehicle as well as third-party liabilities. Theft and irreparable damages are also covered.

Car Insurance for Disabled Drivers

How to Choose the Right Car Insurance Policy

Choosing the right vehicle insurance involves careful consideration. Here are some considerations for disabled drivers in the UAE when selecting the most suitable insurance policy:

Declare modifications

Declare all vehicle modifications to your insurance provider, including those to the steering wheel or other maneuverability aids, to avoid coverage gaps in accidents or theft.

Reading Suggestion: 8 Best Car Modifications For Disabled Drivers

Specialized providers

Look for insurance providers specialized in disability car insurance. These providers are more qualified and experienced with regards to adapted vehicles. 

Compare quotes

Ask around and compare quotes from different specialized providers. Consider other factors such as deductibles, coverage limits, and additional benefits.

Personal accident coverage

Read through the personal accident coverage offered by the insurance policy. Given the potential risks and medical expenses for disabled drivers, personal accident coverage is necessary. 

No-Claim discounts

Inquire about no-claim discounts. No-claim discounts are rewards for good drivers with a clean claims history. The longer a driver did not make a claim, the higher the discount on their next insurance policy renewal.

Man in wheelchair next to his car

Frequently Asked Questions

Do disabled drivers pay more for car insurance in the UAE?

No, insurance companies offer the same benefits and rates to everyone.

Are there special discounts for car insurance for disabled drivers in the UAE? 

No. Insurance companies in the UAE do not provide disabled driver insurance discounts. But seasonal deals and offers may be available.

What insurance coverage is mandatory for disabled drivers in the UAE?

TPL or Third-Party Liability Insurance is mandatory for all vehicles.

Do I need to disclose my disability when applying for car insurance in the UAE?

Yes, disclose your disability for coverage of special modifications, such as hand controls, wheelchair ramps and steering wheel knobs and other devices

What happens if I don’t disclose my disability when applying for car insurance in the UAE?

You won’t be covered for special modifications; disclose your disability for necessary adaptations.

Can I modify my car for my disability without affecting my insurance? 

Yes, but inform your provider to ensure coverage validity.

What happens if I need to use a courtesy car after an accident as a disabled driver?

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide them with all relevant details about the accident and inquire about the availability of a courtesy car.

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