Motor Insurance Policy
Terms and Conditions

Version 1.0
|
November 2025

Table of contents

  1. Customer Information
    1. Contractual Parties
    2. General Definitions
    3. Applicable Law – Contractual Basis
    4. In the Event of an Accident/Claim What Should You Do?
    5. Obligations of the Customer Prior to, and Upon, the Commencement of the Insurance Policy
    6. Right of Withdrawal – Cooling Off Period
    7. Risk Increase and Risk Reduction
    8. Start, Term, and Termination, of the Insurance Contract/Policy
    9. Complaints Procedure
  2. General Conditions and Exceptions
    1. Territorial Scope
    2. Temporal Scope
    3. Other Insurances
    4. Care of Vehicle
    5. Change to Policy Details
    6. Representations
    7. Driving Disqualification
    8. Compulsory Motor Insurance
    9. Residence of the Owner and Location of the Vehicle
    10. Dispute Resolution
    11. Subrogation
    12. The Insurance Act 1936
    13. Stamp Duties Consolidation Act 1999
    14. Exclusions
    15. Breach of Obligations
    16. Reduction in Benefits, Refusal of Benefits, and Recourse
    17. Gross Negligence
    18. Due Date of the Compensation
    19. Statute of Limitations and Forfeiture
    20. Sum Insured
    21. Deductible/Policy Excess
    22. No Claims Bonus
    23. No Claims Bonus Protection
  3. Third Party Liability Insurance
    1. Indemnity to the Policyholder/Insured Persons
    2. Indemnity to Other Persons
    3. Exclusions
    4. Driving Other Vehicles
  4. Provisions for Fire, Theft and More, Windscreen, Full-Comprehensive and Additional Insurance
    1. Scope of Insurance
    2. Type of Compensation
    3. Exclusions
    4. Special Features in the Event of Fire, Theft and More, Windscreen and Fully-Comprehensive Claims
  5. Windscreen
    1. Windscreen
  6. Fire, Theft and More Insurance
    1. Fire
    2. Theft
    3. Natural Hazards
    4. Snow Slide
    5. Impact with Animals
  7. Full-Comprehensive Insurance
    1. Accident
    2. Vandalism
  8. Additional Insurance Coverage
    1. New Car Replacement (Type of Compensation in the Event of a Total Loss)
    2. Replacing the Keys of the Vehicle
    3. Glass Cover Plus
    4. Chargers
    5. Driver Protection Insurance
    6. Medical Expenses
    7. Personal Belongings
    8. Courtesy Vehicle Costs
    9. Courtesy Vehicle Insurance
    10. Misfuelling Cover
  9. Data Protection

  1. Customer Information

YOUR MOTOR INSURANCE CONTRACT & INSURANCE POLICY CONSISTS OF THREE MAIN DOCUMENTS:

  1. THESE POLICY TERMS & CONDITIONS, WHICH INCLUDE DEFINITIONS, EXTENT OF COVER, AND ANY FURTHER ENDORSEMENTS OR EXCLUSIONS; AND
  2. THE INSURANCE SCHEDULE, WHICH INCLUDES (AMONGST OTHER THINGS) DETAILS OF THE INSURED PARTY(IES), THE VEHICLE, THE COVER, AND THE PERIOD OF INSURANCE; AND
  3. THE CERTIFICATE OF MOTOR INSURANCE, WHICH IS REQUIRED BY LAW. IT MAY BE DETACHED FOR PRODUCTION TO LICENCING OR LEGAL AUTHORITIES.

PLEASE READ ALL OF THESE DOCUMENTS CAREFULLY AND KEEP THEM IN A SAFE PLACE. IF THEY DO NOT MEET YOUR REQUIREMENTS OR IF YOU HAVE ANY QUERIES REGARDING THE COVER OR THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND EXCLUSIONS OF YOUR INSURANCE POLICY, PLEASE DO CONTACT US, AS THE INSURER OR YOUR INSURANCE BROKER (IF ANY). YOU SHOULD PAY PARTICULAR ATTENTION TO THE GENERAL CONDITIONS AND GENERAL EXCLUSIONS SET OUT HEREUNDER.

  1. Contractual Parties

The Insurer

Helvetia Global Solutions Limited ("Helvetia"/"We"/"we"/"Us"/"us"/"the Insurer")
Aeulestrasse 60
FL-9490 Vaduz
Principality of Liechtenstein

The Policy Administrator

Wrisk Europe GmbH. ("Wrisk")
Karlstraße 19
80333 Munich
Germany

The Claims Adjuster

Van Ameyde ("Van Ameyde")
Office G:18
Bromley Old Town Hall
30 Tweedy Road
Bromley
England
BR1 3FE

The Policyholder

"The customer/The policyholder/You/you"

  1. General Definitions

Certificate of Insurance
Evidence of your motor insurance which is issued by Helvetia which confirms who is covered to drive the Insured Vehicle and the purpose for which it can be used. It also confirms if you are covered to drive any other car.
The Insured Vehicle
The Insured Vehicle is the vehicle in respect of which the Certificate of Motor Insurance specifying the registration number has been issued.
Passenger
Any person (other than the driver) who is in the Insured Vehicle or who is getting into it or out of such vehicle.
Policy
The Policy/Contract of Insurance between Helvetia and you based on the answers you have given to questions which we, or our agent or your agent, have asked and/or your Statement of Fact/Proposal Form and consisting of the Policy Schedule, this policy document, and any endorsements included.
Endorsement
Any alteration to the Terms of the Policy. Helvetia can include endorsements in this document or they can be issued separately.
Schedule
The document which gives your details and the cover provided by Helvetia under your Policy. The Schedule forms part of the Policy.
Premium
The premium is the sum agreed to be paid by you to Helvetia in consideration of it providing a Policy of Insurance to you in respect of the Insured Vehicle.

  1. Applicable Law – Contractual Basis

Under the relevant European and Irish Legal provisions, the parties to this contract of insurance are free to choose the law applicable to the contract. This contract is governed by Irish Law.

The contract is based on the customer's application, the information provided by the customer, the General Insurance Conditions, any other special conditions or supplementary conditions, and the terms, conditions, endorsements, and exclusions, of the insurance policy.

In consideration of the premium having been paid (or agreed to be paid) by you, Helvetia will provide insurance in accordance with the policy cover indicated in the Schedule. This cover will apply during the period of insurance specified in the Schedule or any subsequent period for which we may accept payment for renewal of this policy.

Insurance cover is granted in Ireland and in all countries for which insurance cover is granted in accordance with the international insurance certificate (formerly the Green Card).

In the case of transportation by sea, the insurance cover is not interrupted, if the place of departure and destination are within the local jurisdiction (Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Great Britain, the Isle of Man, and the Channel Islands).

Helvetia has agreed to provide policy cover and has calculated the applicable premium based on the information provided by you, or on your behalf, including but not limited to:

  • Information provided in any Proposal Form or otherwise in response to specific questions asked by us, or our agent or your agent, and/or
  • Information provided and recorded in any Statement of Fact issued to you; and/or
  • Any declarations made by you or on your behalf; and/or
  • Any additional information voluntarily provided by you or on your behalf.

  1. In the Event of an Accident/Claim what should you do?

  1. Do not admit, to any party, any liability or responsibility for the accident/incident.
  2. Please note the registration of the other vehicle(s) involved.
  3. If there is damage to any other vehicle(s) or property(ies), exchange names and addresses with any person from whom you will have reasonable grounds to ask for their insurance details.
  4. Report the accident to the Gardaí (or the local Police) at the time. If the accident/incident involves injury to persons or animals, you are required by law to report the incident to the Gardaí or the local police (if abroad) as soon as reasonably possible and, in any case, within 24 hours.
  5. Take details of all injuries and damage sustained. If possible, try to draw a basic diagram of the accident location to include approximate road measurements, road signs, markings, traffic signals, and the vehicles involved. Take photos if reasonably possible.
  6. Try to obtain the names and addresses of any witnesses to the accident/incident.
  7. Please notify us of your accident within 48 hours.
  8. Advise us immediately if you receive notice of any prosecution or if other parties are to be prosecuted as a result of the accident.
  9. If your car is stolen or maliciously damaged (vandalism), immediately report the matter to the Gardaí or the local police station (if abroad) nearest to the location of the incident.
  10. Please advise us of the theft and/or damage within 48 hours.
  11. All correspondence to you from third parties, their insurers, or their representatives, should be sent to us by you, unanswered, as soon as possible after receipt by you.

  1. Obligations of the Customer prior-to, and upon, the commencement of the Insurance Policy

As the applicant, the policyholder, and/or an insured person, is obliged to answer all of the application questions (e.g. date of birth, previous claims, etc) completely and correctly and to the best of the belief of the policyholder and/or the insured person. If the policyholder and/or an insured person has provided incomplete or incorrect answers to one or more questions posed in writing or in another text form when taking out the insurance policy, Helvetia shall be entitled, if it so wishes, to terminate the contract/insurance policy within four weeks of becoming aware of the breach of the policyholder's (or the insured person's) duty of disclosure. If the contract/policy is terminated as a result of such a termination, the obligation to pay benefits for losses that have already occurred shall also lapse, insofar as their occurrence or extent was influenced by the incomplete or incorrectly disclosed answers or fact(s). If benefits have already been paid, these can be reclaimed by Helvetia from the policyholder and/or the insured person.

  1. Right of Withdrawal – Cooling Off Period

The policyholder may revoke his application to conclude the contract or the insurance policy or the declaration of acceptance, in writing or in another text form. The revocation period is 14 days and that period begins as soon as the policyholder has accepted the contract. To do this, the deadline is met if the policyholder notifies Helvetia of its revocation on the last day of the revocation period or if it hands over its declaration of revocation to the Post Office (An Post) for postal delivery to Helvetia on/by the last day of the revocation period.

The right of revocation is excluded, however, for collective personal insurance policies, provisional cover commitments, and agreements with a term of less than one calendar month.

In the event of a valid revocation, Helvetia shall refund the premium paid pro rata temporis, i.e., on a time-apportioned basis corresponding to the period from the contract commencement until the effective date of revocation.

  1. Risk Increase and Risk Reduction

If, during the term of the contract, a fact material to the assessment of the insured/insurable risk changes, the extent of which was determined by the parties when the contract was concluded, the policyholder must notify Helvetia immediately in writing or in another text form.

All risk facts about which Helvetia has requested information from the policyholder in the application form or proposal form or online or orally in response to other questions (e.g. risk questionnaire, risk and operating characteristics, etc.) are deemed to be material.

If the policyholder fails to provide this required notification, Helvetia shall not be bound by the contract for the subsequent future period.

If a notification of change of material fact has been made, Helvetia may, if it wishes, increase the insurance policy premium correspondingly with retroactive effect from the date of the risk increase or, if it wishes, Helvetia may terminate the part of the policy affected by the change, within 14 days of receipt of the notification of change of material fact. The contract shall expire four weeks after receipt by the policyholder of the notice of termination. The policyholder has the same right of termination if no agreement can be reached on the increase in insurance premium proposed by Helvetia to the policyholder.

In the event of a significant reduction in risk, the policyholder is entitled to terminate the contract by giving four weeks' notice in writing or in another text form or to demand a premium reduction. If Helvetia rejects a request by the policyholder for a premium reduction or if the policyholder does not agree with the reduction offered, the policyholder is entitled to terminate the contract within four weeks of receipt of the statement in writing or in another text form. The premium reduction shall take effect from the date upon which the notification of significant reduction in risk is received by Helvetia.

  1. Start, Term, and Termination, of the Insurance Contract/Policy

Unless a confirmation of cover has been issued in written text form for an earlier date, insurance cover shall commence at the start date specified in the insurance policy.

The contract term is to be for the duration of time stated in the insurance policy. It is renewed at the end of this term or for one year at a time.

  1. Complaints Procedure

At Helvetia, we care about our customers and believe in building long-term relationships by providing quality products combined with a high standard of service. If it should happen that you have cause for complaint, either in relation to your policy or any aspect regarding the standard of our insurance service or our claims-handling service, please see the steps outlined as follows:

  • You can contact us using the contact details provided in your Policy Schedule, either by telephone, by email or in writing.
  • If the complaint is still not resolved to your satisfaction, you may alternatively wish to contact: The Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman, Lincoln House, Lincoln Place, Dublin 2, Ireland D02 VH29. Telephone: (01) 567 7000. Email: info@fspo.ie, Website: www.fspo.ie.

Your right to take legal action is not affected by following any of the above procedures.

  1. General Conditions and Exceptions

1. Territorial Scope

Insurance cover is granted in Ireland and in all countries for which insurance cover is granted in accordance with the international insurance certificate (formerly the Green Card).

In the case of transportation by sea, the insurance cover is not interrupted, if the place of departure and destination are within the local jurisdiction (Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Great Britain, the Isle of Man, and the Channel Islands).

2. Temporal Scope

2.1 Start of the Insurance Cover

Insurance cover begins on the date specified in the insurance policy and applies to events that occur within the policy period.

Third Party Liability Insurance coverage exists from the date & time of vehicle redemption. If you have submitted a written application to us (or in another text form), you will have provisional coverage in the sectors that you have applied for from the date of redemption of the vehicle. The provisional coverage ends upon acceptance of the contract by Helvetia or, in the event of rejection, 3 days after receipt of the rejection notice by you.

The partial premium remains due to us until the insurance cover expires. This applies, once the necessary changes have all been made to the insurance policy, if you apply for a change in insurance cover.

2.2 Contract Adjustment

Helvetia’s Right of Adjustment

Helvetia may demand contract/policy adjustments from the following insurance year onwards in the event of changes to the following insurance conditions:

  1. Premiums
  2. Bonus systems
  3. Deductible regulations
  4. Services
  5. Statutory levies/Governmental taxes
  6. Fees
  7. General terms and conditions of insurance

If adjustments are made to the contract/policy, the new contractual conditions will be communicated at the latest 25 days before the start of the new insurance period.

Premium bases

The premium is based on the selected scope of insurance and the information provided by the policyholder regarding the insured persons and the vehicle. If one of these details changes, Helvetia has the right to adjust the contract/policy to the changed circumstances.

2.3 Cancellation of the Policy

The policy may be cancelled:

  1. By Helvetia, or its authorised agent, sending to the policyholder, 10 days notice of cancellation to the policyholder’s last known address and informing the Department of Transport. The policyholder is then required to return to Helvetia the insurance disc and the certificate of insurance.
  2. By the policyholder. Helvetia also accepts cancellations submitted digitally (e.g., via email or online portal), provided that the policyholder includes a clear and legible digital copy of the insurance disc and the certificate of motor insurance. Such digital submissions will only be accepted if the documents are complete. Helvetia reserves the right to request the original physical documents if deemed necessary for verification purposes.

No refund of premium shall be made until the insurance disc and the certificate of motor insurance have been received by Helvetia, either in original or accepted digital form.

Helvetia, in the event of (a) or (b) above occurring, will return to the policyholder a proportionate part of the premium paid in respect of the unexpired term of the Policy subject to the following

  1. No refund will be allowed if an incident giving rise to a claim occurred during the Period of Insurance.
  2. No refund will be allowed if the premium for the period of insurance has not been paid to Helvetia.
  3. Where the premium is being paid under an instalment scheme (e.g., monthly direct debit), and a claim has been made or is pending during the current Period of Insurance, the balance of the full annual premium becomes immediately payable upon cancellation.
  4. No refund will be allowed if the premium is being paid under an instalment scheme.

Any cancellation by either Helvetia or the policyholder shall be without prejudice to any rights or claims of Helvetia or the policyholder arising prior to the expiration of such notice of cancellation.

2.4 Instalments

If you are paying, or have agreed to pay the premium by instalments, any default in payment on the due date may result in the Policy cover being terminated.

3. Other Insurances

If any claim covered by this Policy is also covered by any other policy of insurance whether effected by the policyholder or not, Helvetia shall not be liable to pay more than a rateable proportion of any such claim.

4. Care of Vehicle

The policyholder must take all reasonable steps to safeguard the Insured Vehicle against loss, damage, and breakdown, and to prevent injuries. The policyholder and any insured person should/shall ensure that the keys are not left in or on the Insured’s Vehicle while unattended or that the Insured Vehicle is unlocked whilst unattended.

The Insured Vehicle should/shall be maintained in a good and roadworthy condition. The policyholder must ensure that the Insured Vehicle has a valid NCT certificate.

5. Change to Policy Details

The policyholder must immediately inform us about any of the following changes which occur during the Policy Period:

  1. change of car or any other vehicle you buy or take ownership of;
  2. convictions, prosecutions, or any penalty points, which apply to the policyholder or to any other insured person;
  3. change in a driver’s health, address, or occupation;
  4. modifications or alterations to the Insured Vehicle including, but not limited to, air induction kits and filters, lower suspension, change to the exhaust, engine maintenance computers, or adding of body parts;
  5. change in use or in the main user of the Insured Vehicle; or
  6. any changes to:
    1. the information provided in any Proposal Form or otherwise in response to specific questions asked by us; and/or
    2. the information provided and recorded in any Statement of Fact issued to you; and/or
    3. the declarations made by or on behalf of the policyholder and any insured person(s); and/or
    4. any additional information voluntarily provided by the policyholder or an insured person or a third party on their behalf.

When you notify us about a change, or if we otherwise become aware of any such change, as referenced above, we may reassess the policy insurance premium chargeable and policy cover more generally.

We may refuse a claim made by the policyholder and/or by an insured person (as the case may be) where there has been a change in the subject matter of the insurance policy which results in a new risk which we did not agree to cover and which was beyond the reasonable contemplation of us and the policyholder when the Policy was entered into.

Failure to disclose any such change may result in difficulty by you or an insured person in obtaining insurance in the future.

6. Representations

  1. The policyholder has a legal duty, prior to entering into the Policy and/or prior to the renewal of the Policy, to provide answers to any questions asked by Helvetia in relation to the risk(s) to be insured.
  2. Any matter about which Helvetia asks a specific question is material to the risk undertaken by them or the calculation of the Premium, or both.
  3. The policyholder has a legal duty to answer all questions asked honestly, accurately, and with reasonable care.
  4. Misrepresentation

    In this Condition, ‘negligent misrepresentation’ means a representation made without reasonable care but which is not fraudulent. Where a claim is made under the Policy but an answer which was provided or information which was volunteered, by or on behalf of the policyholder or an insured person involves a negligent misrepresentation, the remedy available to Helvetia will be dependent upon what it would have done had it been aware of the full facts and shall be based on a compensatory and proportionate test, as follows:

    1. If Helvetia would not have entered into the Policy on any terms, it may avoid the Policy from inception or renewal (as the case may be) and refuse all claims, but will return the Premium paid;
    2. If Helvetia would have entered into the Policy, but on different terms, the Policy is to be treated as if it had been entered into on those terms;
    3. If Helvetia would have entered into the Policy, but would have charged a higher Premium, it may reduce proportionally the amount to be paid on the relevant claim.
  5. Where a claim is made under the Policy, if any answer given by the policyholder or an insured person involves a fraudulent misrepresentation or where any conduct (relative to the contract or the steps leading to its formation) involves fraud, Helvetia shall be entitled to avoid the Policy from the date of commencement or renewal (as the case may be) without return of Premium.
  6. Fraudulent Claims

    If the policyholder or anyone acting for them, makes a claim under the Policy, knowing that the claim is false or misleading and/or makes a claim for any loss or damage deliberately caused by the policyholder or a person covered to drive the Insured Vehicle with the knowledge of the policyholder, then Helvetia may:

    • refuse to pay the claim;
    • avoid the Policy with effect from the date of the fraudulent claim or fraudulent act;
    • consider letting the appropriate law enforcement authorities know about the circumstances;
    • refuse to return the Premium or any part thereof.

    If the policyholder or an insured person commits a fraudulent act on any other Policy of Insurance, then Helvetia reserves the right to cancel this Policy and/or let the appropriate law enforcement authorities know about the circumstances.

7. Driving Disqualification

If you have reported to us (orally or in writing) a driving disqualification as a result of you driving:

  1. in a drunken state; and/or
  2. under the influence of narcotics; and/or
  3. under the influence of drugs; and/or
  4. with a speeding offence

We have the right to adjust or to terminate the insurance policy.

8. Compulsory Motor Insurance

If, under the provisions of Section 76 of the Road Traffic Act, 1961 (as amended), Helvetia is required by law to pay a claim which it would not otherwise be obliged to pay under the terms of this Policy, Helvetia shall pay such claim but will be entitled to recover from the policyholder all sums paid by it.

9. Residence of the Owner and Location of the Vehicle

If the owner of the vehicle to which the insurance policy relates moves his place of residence or the permanent location of the Insured Vehicle to a location abroad, or purchases foreign licence plates for the vehicle, the insurance policy/contract or the coverage expires after 60 days of that event occurring. There is no insurance cover for vehicles with a permanent location abroad.

10. Dispute Resolution

Any differences arising out of this contract of insurance shall be referred to an Arbitrator to be appointed by the parties in accordance with current statutory provisions. Where any difference is, by this condition, to be referred to Arbitration, the making of an award shall be a condition precedent to any right of action against the Insurer. Claims not referred to Arbitration within 12 calendar months from the date of disclaimer of liability by Helvetia shall be deemed to have been abandoned.

11. Subrogation

This clause applies where we have the right to be subrogated to the rights of the policyholder or to the rights of an insured person against some other person but the policyholder or the insured person has not exercised those rights and might reasonably be expected not to exercise those rights because:

  1. the policyholder or the insured person and the other person are members of the same family (to be construed in accordance with the Employment Equality Act 1998), or are cohabitants (to be construed in accordance with the Civil Partnership and Certain Rights and Obligations of Cohabitants Act 2010); or
  2. the policyholder or the insured person expressly or impliedly consented to the use, by the other person, of a motor vehicle insured under this insurance policy.

And where, in the above circumstances, the other person is not insured in respect of their liability to the policyholder or to the insured person, we do not have the right to be subrogated to the rights of the policyholder or the insured person against that other person.

And where the other person is so insured, we may not recover from the other person an amount greater than the amount that that person may recover under their insurance policy.

This clause does not apply where the conduct of the other person that gave rise to the event or loss involved serious or wilful misconduct.

If the policyholder or the insured person is an employer, we will not exercise our right(s) of subrogation against an employee except where the loss was caused by an employee intentionally or recklessly and with knowledge that the loss would probably result.

12. The Insurance Act 1936

All monies which become or may become due and payable by us under this insurance policy shall, in accordance with Section 93 of the Insurance Act 1936, be payable and paid in the Republic of Ireland.

13. Stamp Duties Consolidation Act 1999

The appropriate Stamp Duty has been or will be paid in accordance with the provisions of Section 5 of the Stamp Duties Consolidation Act 1999.

14. Exclusions

The following are excluded from coverage/indemnity by this insurance policy:

14.1 Speed Drives and Drives on Race and Training Tracks

The insurance policy does not cover claims arising from accidents or damage that may occur or arise during participation in races, rallies, offroad events, or similar drives, including training drives and other drives on race tracks, circuits, and other traffic areas used for motorsport purposes.

14.2 Driving without Authorisation

The insurance policy does not cover damage or claims which may occur or arise:

  1. Where the Insured Vehicle is being used or driven otherwise than as stated in the Schedule;
  2. Where the Insured Vehicle is being driven in an overloaded condition or in a condition that does not correspond with its technical requirements;
  3. Where the Insured Vehicle is being driven for a purpose which is unsuitable;
  4. Where the Insured Vehicle is being driven to the knowledge of the policyholder in an unsafe or unroadworthy condition;
  5. Where the Insured Vehicle is being driven by a person who is not the holder of a licence to drive it or who is driving without any legally required escort;
  6. Where the Insured Vehicle is being driven by a driver who is subsequently convicted of, or during such time that there is a prosecution pending for, driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics or drugs contrary to the Road Traffic Act legislation;
  7. Where the Insured Vehicle is being driven by a person who is unfit to do so due to alcohol or narcotics or drugs;
  8. Where the Insured Vehicle is being driven for the purpose of carrying passengers contrary to the law or the legal regulations;
  9. Where the Insured Vehicle is being driven by a person who stole the vehicle.

14.3 Riots, Requisition, and Ionization

Damage and claims are not insured by the insurance policy if the claim(s) arise:

  1. As a result of civil unrest (acts of violence against persons or property during one or more riot and/or tumult and/or industrial strike);
  2. As a result of terrorist or warlike events, violations of neutrality, revolution, rebellion, and insurrection and the measures taken against them;
  3. due to changes in the atomic nucleus structure (e.g. radioactive contamination);
  4. during military or official requisition; or
  5. by exposure to ionizing radiation.

14.4 Crime, Misdemeanours, Intent

The insurance policy does not cover losses or claims resulting from the intentional commission of crimes or misdemeanours or attempts to do so (in particular also in the event of embezzlement or unlawful appropriation) by the policyholder and/or by an insured person.

15. Breach of Obligations

In the event of a breach of statutory or contractual obligations, the coverage/indemnity to be provided by the insurance policy and the necessary compensation shall be reduced to the extent that the occurrence or extent of the loss was influenced by this.

No reduction will be made if the policyholder proves that the breach of obligation was not its fault or that the loss would have occurred even if the statutory or contractual obligation had been fulfilled.

We reserve the right to withdraw from the insurance policy for legal or contractual reasons.

The statutory consequences in the event of a breach of the duty of disclosure upon conclusion of the insurance policy are also reserved.

16. Reduction in Benefits, Refusal of Benefits, and Recourse

We can reduce, refuse to pay, or reclaim, any benefits of this insurance policy, in part or in full, from you or from any other insured persons if:

  1. there are legal or contractual reasons; or
  2. we have to pay benefits on the basis of an international agreement (for example: Green Card) or foreign regulations after your insurance cover had already been suspended or had ceased; or
  3. we have to provide benefits on the basis of an international agreement (for example: Green Card) or foreign regulations and a right of recourse would exist in Ireland in the event of the same event, to the extent of this corresponding right of recourse.

If we do not receive your payment 4 weeks after our request, we will ask you in writing to pay within 14 days of sending our reminder. If you do not heed our reminder, the entire insurance policy will lapse after those 14 days. You would/will still then owe us the corresponding amount.

17. Gross Negligence

In the event of grossly negligent causation by you of any damage, we are entitled to reduce our benefits in a proportion corresponding to the severity of your fault.

18. Due Date of the Compensation

Compensation is due 30 days after the date by which we have received the documents required to determine the amount of the damage and our liability. In particular, the due date shall not occur if:

  1. there are doubts about a claimant’s entitlement to receive payment; and/or
  2. police or criminal proceedings are being conducted in respect of the damage and these have not been concluded.

19. Statute of Limitations and Forfeiture

The claims arising from this insurance policy shall lapse six years after the occurrence of the event giving rise to the obligation to perform.

Claims for compensation rejected under fire, theft and more, windscreen and full comprehensive insurance that are not asserted in court within six years of the occurrence of the loss event are forfeited.

20. Sum Insured

Our benefits per insured event are limited to the sum insured entered into the insurance policy schedule.

21. Deductible/Policy Excess

The agreed deductible/policy excess is payable by you for each event and cover for which we pay compensation. The deductible/policy excess will be deducted from the insured compensation or reclaimed from you.

21.2 A deductible of EUR 1,500 will apply in addition to the deductible displayed in your policy schedule for each event and coverage if:

  1. this person is not listed in the insurance policy schedule as the keeper, most frequent and/or additional driver.

22. No Claims Bonus

If you do not claim during the current period of insurance, we will discount your insurance policy renewal premium. The discount will be in accordance with the No Claims Bonus scale applicable at the time of renewal of your insurance policy. Please see the table below for the current discount scale.

For each insurance year, the number of claim-free years on the main renewal date is redetermined on the basis of an annual observation period. Each year, the bonus level is reassessed at the main renewal date. For this, the claim(s) history from/for the 12 month period ending 4 months before the main renewal date is considered.

Number of claim-free years driving (only in respect of your own Insurance Policy)Percentage discount allowed
00%
110%
220%
330%
440%
5+50%

If you make a claim, we will reduce the discount at the next renewal according to the following table, unless you have chosen the “No Claims Bonus Protection” option. Your Insurance Policy Schedule will show if you have the “No Claims Bonus Protection”.

Number of claim(s)-free years at the start of the Insurance Policy or when it was last renewedNumber of claim(s)-free years at next renewal for one claim happening in the observation period
00
10
20
30
41
5+2

If you make two or more claims in the previous insurance year/period, we will reduce your No Claims Bonus to 0.

If we make payments that we cannot recover from another person, the claim will count against your No Claims Bonus even if you were not at fault.

You cannot transfer your No Claims Bonus to anyone else.

Your No Claims Bonus will not be affected by:

  1. payments under the fire, theft and more insurance coverage;
  2. payments under the windscreen coverage;
  3. payments under the Additional Coverages;
  4. payments for Emergency Treatment that the Irish Law says that we must pay;
  5. payments (together with associated costs and expenses) which we recover in full from one or more Third Parties;
  6. payments where the Policyholder is involved in a non-fault accident with an uninsured driver;
  7. payments under the vandalism coverage, when the incident is substantiated and reported to the police as vandalism.

23. No Claims Bonus Protection

If "No Claims Bonus Protection" has been included, the number of claim-free years will remain unchanged for the following insurance year after the first claim per observation period that would otherwise lead to a higher premium. The second claim in the same observation period will then be considered as the first one.

  1. Third Party Liability Insurance

Only the Policy Schedule determines whether the Third Party Liability Insurance is included in the contract. If so, the coverages described below are insured in accordance with the following provisions.

1. Indemnity to the Policyholder/Insured Persons

  1. Helvetia will indemnify the policyholder/insured persons against liability at law for damages and for any claimant’s costs and expenses in respect of the death of or bodily injury to any person and/or damage to property where such death or injury or damage arises out of an accident caused by or in connection with the following:
    1. the Insured Vehicle;
    2. a trailer or disabled mechanically propelled vehicle which is attached to or under tow, (as permitted by law) by the Insured Vehicle;
    3. any detached single axle trailer not exceeding one-half tonne unladen weight but excluding caravans, mobile homes, trailer tents, boat trailers, and any trailer which incorporates machinery or other equipment.
  2. Helvetia will discharge all legal costs incurred with their written consent in connection with any claim covered by this Section;
  3. In respect of any event which may be the subject of indemnity under this Section, Helvetia will also pay:
    1. legal costs associated with representation at any coroner’s inquest/fatal enquiry or Court of Summary Jurisdiction;
    2. legal costs relating to the defence against any charge or manslaughter or causing death by reckless driving subject to a limit of €1,500 in respect of any one charge.

2. Indemnity to Other Persons

Subject to the terms and limitations of this Section, Helvetia will also indemnify:

  1. Any person who is entitled by this Policy to drive the Insured’s Vehicle and who is driving with the permission of the policyholder except a person in the Motor Trade driving the Insured’s Vehicle for purposes necessitated by the overhaul, upkeep, and/or repair of the vehicle;
  2. At the policyholder’s request, any passenger;
  3. In the event of the death of any person entitled to an indemnity under this Policy, their legal personal representatives.
  4. Provided that:

    1. the liability of Helvetia is not increased thereby;
    2. such legal personal representatives shall, as though they were the policyholder, observe fulfil and be subject to the terms, limitations, Exceptions and Conditions and Exclusions of this Policy so far as they can apply;
    3. there shall be cover, at the policyholder’s request, for their employer or business partner but only in respect of the policyholder’s negligence while the policyholder is driving or using the Insured Vehicle for the purposes of their employment or business, provided the driving use is permitted by the Certificate of Motor Insurance.

3. Exclusions

Helvetia shall not be liable:

  1. Under No 2 ‘Indemnity to Other Persons’:
    1. Unless the person driving holds a licence to drive the Insured Vehicle or has held and is not disqualified from holding or obtaining such a licence;
    2. if, to the knowledge of the person claiming to be indemnified, the person driving does not hold a licence to drive the Insured Vehicle, unless the person driving has held and is not disqualified from holding or obtaining such a licence;
    3. if such a person is entitled to an indemnity under any other policy.
    4. Unless such person shall, as though he or she were the policyholder, observe, fulfil, and do proceed subject to the terms, limitations, Exceptions, Conditions and Exclusions of this Policy so far as they can apply.
  2. In respect of damage to property belonging to or held in trust by or in the custody or control of the person claiming to be indemnified under this Section;
  3. In respect of loss or damage to the Insured Vehicle or any vehicle being driven by the policyholder or an insured person;
  4. In respect of death or bodily injury to any person (including any passenger) while in or on any trailer, semi-trailer, or caravan, covered by this Policy, whether coupled to the Insured Vehicle or otherwise;
  5. In respect of loss or damage to any trailer or disabled mechanically propelled vehicle, covered by this Policy or to any property carried in or on such trailer, disabled mechanically propelled vehicle or the Insured Vehicle;
  6. Under No. 1 ‘Indemnity to the Policyholder/Insured Persons’ and No. 2 ‘Indemnity to Other Persons’, for more than the Third Party Property Damage Limit stated in the Schedule in respect of damage to property arising out of any one accident or series of accidents arising out of one event;
  7. Death or bodily injury to anyone driving or in charge of the Insured Vehicle.

4. Driving Other Vehicles

Covered is your legal liability to pay compensation for death, bodily injury, or property damage arising out of an accident caused by you while driving a private vehicle which is not owned, leased, or hired by you or by your employer or business partner, and which is not the subject of a hire-purchase, contract-hire, or lease agreement with you.

This cover is only provided if your Policy Schedule and your Certificate of Insurance expressly state that you are covered to drive other vehicles, and is limited to liability cover only under Section C of these Terms and Conditions.

1. Conditions for Cover

This cover shall only apply if:

  1. Your Policy Schedule and your Certificate of Insurance explicitly confirms this extension;
  2. The vehicle you drive is a private passenger vehicle taxed and registered for private use, and capable of being driven with a standard Category B driving licence;
  3. The vehicle is not owned, hired, leased, or registered to you, or to your employer, nor has been provided to you in the course of your employment or any business activity;
  4. A valid and active insurance policy in another person’s name exists for the vehicle you drive, in accordance with Irish Road Traffic Acts. Cover under this Policy may respond in the event such other insurance does not provide sufficient protection in respect of the liability incurred;
  5. You have the owner’s explicit permission to drive the vehicle;
  6. Your own insured vehicle is still in your possession, covered under this Policy, and not declared a total loss;
  7. The vehicle is driven exclusively within the Republic of Ireland;
  8. The use of the vehicle complies with the permitted use categories shown in your Certificate of Insurance;
  9. You have taken reasonable care to ensure the vehicle is roadworthy and compliant with all applicable laws and regulations.

2. Insured Person

Cover under this extension applies exclusively to you as the Policyholder, provided that the Policyholder is a natural person.

This extension does not apply if the Policyholder is a legal entity, company, or organisation of any kind. No other person, including any named or additional driver listed in the Schedule or authorised elsewhere in this Policy

3. Exclusions

There is no cover under this extension if:

  1. The vehicle is a van, car-van, pick-up, jeep without rear seats, camper, or any vehicle adapted for the carriage of goods or passengers outside private domestic use;
  2. The vehicle is used for hire or reward, including but not limited to taxis, hackneys, ride-share services, delivery or courier services;
  3. The vehicle is driven outside the territorial limits of the Republic of Ireland;
  4. The vehicle is used outside the permitted use classifications as stated on your Certificate of Insurance;
  5. You do not have the owner’s permission;
  6. The vehicle is not covered by a valid third party liability policy in another person’s name;
  7. Any general exclusion under this Policy applies.

4. Your Obligations

You must ensure compliance with all duties and responsibilities as outlined in these General Conditions of this Policy. Any breach may result in denial of indemnity.

  1. Provisions for Fire, Theft and More, Windscreen, Full-Comprehensive and Additional Insurance

Only the Policy Schedule determines whether the Fire, Theft and More, Windscreen, Full Comprehensive and/or the Additional Coverages Insurance is included in the contract. If so, the coverages described below are insured in accordance with the following provisions.

1. Scope of Insurance

Insured Persons

The insurance policy covers the policyholder, the owner, and the keeper of the Insured Vehicle(s), as well as additional drivers – whether or not they are declared in the policy schedule.

However, if a driver is not listed in the policy schedule as a keeper, most frequent or additional driver, an additional deductible will apply in accordance with section B.21.2.

Insured Vehicle(s)

The insurance covers the vehicle(s) registered in your contract/insurance policy.

Equipment and Accessories

Unless otherwise agreed, equipment and accessories subject to a surcharge are insured up to a value of 10% of the relevant catalogue price.

Non-Insured Items

The following equipment and accessories are excluded from coverage by the insurance policy:

  1. Helmets, Clothing of any kind (examples: motorcycle clothing, boots, gloves, caps, etc)
  2. Not permanently installed:
    • Communication devices (except if insured under Section H.7 Personal Belongings)
    • Navigation devices
    • Consumer electronics devices (except if insured under Section H.7 Personal Belongings)
    • Image, sound and data carriers
  3. Licence plates with collector's value (purchased at auction or for an additional charge).

2. Type of Compensation

Total Loss

A total loss is deemed to have occurred if the repair costs amount to or exceed 80% of the current value of the insured vehicle, or if a lost vehicle is not recovered within 30 days of us receiving written notification of the loss (or in another text form). We shall then reimburse the current value. Any residual value of the vehicle will be deducted.

Compensation

Compensation for the Insured Vehicle shall be the lower of:

  1. its current value at the date of loss and
  2. the Policyholder’s documented purchase price. If the purchase price cannot be documented, the current value applies.

Any subsequent increase in value after purchase is not covered. Any residual value will be deducted.

Remains

The indemnity to be provided by the insurance policy shall be reduced by the value of the remains of the unrepaired vehicle, including equipment and accessories, if these remain in the possession of the owner. No deduction will be made if the remains are assigned to Helvetia by means of a written power of sale. Helvetia is not obliged to accept the remains.

Hire-Purchase and Leasing vehicles

If the Insured Vehicle is subject to a hire-purchase or leasing agreement, we may, at our sole discretion, choose to repair or replace the vehicle or to pay the legal owner (lessor) directly for the assessed loss or damage.

Once payment has been made to the legal owner, or the vehicle has been repaired or replaced accordingly, we shall have no further liability for the same loss or damage – including for theft or attempted theft of the Insured Vehicle.

This provision applies regardless of any residual financial obligations which the policyholder may have under the respective agreement.

Partial Damage

In the event of partial damage to a vehicle, we will reimburse the repair costs. We are not obliged to pay for the replacement of parts if they can be repaired without any problems. If the damaged parts can be replaced by high-quality reproduction parts or used parts, we do not have to pay for the cost of new original parts. If individual worn parts are replaced during the repair, the entire vehicle is repainted or other wear and tear defects are repaired, we are entitled to make a deduction (new for old) corresponding to the added value of the repair costs. If the repair is not carried out, we will reimburse 90% of the calculated amount of damage less any applicable value added tax if the claimant is registered for, and can thus "recover", the VAT.

Further Costs

In the event of a claim, we will also reimburse the costs of extinguishing any fire, the costs of temporary accommodation (including parking costs), the transportation (including the return) of the insured vehicle to an approved repair workshop, and the dismantling required by the operator. The assumption of these additional costs is, however, limited to EUR1,250.

Reduction in Benefits

If inadequate maintenance, wear and tear, or pre-existing damage, have increased the repair costs, are more likely to have caused a total loss, or if the condition of the vehicle has been improved by the repair, the corresponding share of the costs shall be borne by you. This share is to be determined by experts. If the catalogue price (including equipment and accessories) of the vehicle was declared too low, the compensation will be reduced proportionately in the event of a claim.

Take-Back Obligation

If a lost vehicle is found by us within 30 days of receipt of the written claim notification (or in another text form), you are obliged to take back the repaired vehicle.

Value Added Tax

VAT will not be compensated if the claimant is registered for, and can thus "recover", the VAT. Claims payments are made on the basis that the estimated repair costs do not include VAT.

3. Exclusions

Claims are NOT insured as a result of:

Operating Damage

Damage caused by out of circulation causes, breakage, and wear and tear, in particular also broken springs caused by the vibrations of the vehicle, material fatigue, gradual damage to glass or glass replacement, damage due to inadequate lubrication or oiling, damage due to lack of oil, damage due to filling with the wrong fuel, freezing or lack of cooling water (except as a result of insured theft), material, manufacturing or construction defects and damage caused by the load; and, furthermore, damage relating exclusively to the tyres (except as a result of puncturing) or the battery.

Loss of Use, Reduced Value

Damage due to loss of use, reduced performance or usability, of the vehicle as well as collector's value, reduced value, and additional value.

4. Special Features in the event of Fire, Theft and More, Windscreen and Fully-Comprehensive Claims

Choice of Repair Workshop

In order to ensure that repairs are carried out in accordance with the technical specifications and quality standards of the vehicle manufacturer, we may, where appropriate, suggest that the repair be carried out by a workshop recognised or recommended by the manufacturer. The choice of repair workshop remains with the policyholder. However, if no agreement can be reached with the workshop appointed by the policyholder regarding the repair method or the cost estimates, we reserve the right to appoint another qualified garage. If the policyholder does not agree to have the repairs carried out at a facility recommended by us, we will reimburse the repair costs based on the amount determined by our appointed expert. Should the repairs be carried out at an unreasonably high cost without our prior approval, our compensation shall be limited to the amount established by our expert.

Viewing and Information

You must allow us, if we wish, to examine the damaged property and to inspect the damaged vehicle before and after the repair at any time, and you must provide us with the information and documents required to determine the extent of the damage. Failure to do so may result in Helvetia's indemnity or contribution to the policyholder being reduced or not paid at all.

Theft and Vandalism Damage

In the event of theft or vandalism, you must inform the police immediately. If the theft or vandalism occurs abroad, it must also be reported to the police station at your place of residence in Ireland. If the vehicle is found or if anything becomes known about its whereabouts, we must be informed immediately.

  1. Windscreen

Only the Policy Schedule determines whether the Windscreen Insurance is included in the contract. If so, the coverage described below is insured in accordance with the following provisions.

1. Windscreen

The insurance policy covers involuntary breakage of front/windshields, and side & rear windows (the aforementioned list is exhaustive) that makes it necessary to replace or repair the windows for safety reasons. No compensation or indemnity will be paid if the replacement or repair is not carried out or if the replacement costs of the glasses reach or exceed the current value of the vehicle.

  1. Fire, Theft and More Insurance

Only the Policy Schedule determines whether the Fire, Theft and More Insurance is included in the contract. If so, the coverages described below are insured in accordance with the following provisions.

Coverage and Benefits

  1. Fire

    The insurance policy covers involuntary damage caused by fire, lightning, explosion, and/or short circuit(s). Damage to electronic devices, components, and batteries, is only insured if the cause is not due to an internal defect. Damage to the vehicle during the extinguishing operation is also insured. Fire damage is not insured if the vehicle owner can assert claims against the seller, supplier, or repair company. Singeing damage is not insured unless it is due to a fire.

    Fire Brigade Charges - In respect of any event which may be the subject of indemnity under this policy we will also pay for charges that be levied by a fire authority in accordance with the provisions of the Fire Services Act 1981 to control or put out a fire in the Insured Vehicle or to remove the driver or passengers from the Insured Vehicle using cutting equipment, subject to a limit of €2,500 in respect of any one incident.

  2. Theft

    The insurance policy covers loss, destruction, or damage, due to theft, theft for use, and robbery of the insured items, or attempted theft, if they occurred involuntarily. No compensation is paid for crimes committed by the policyholder or family members of the policyholder or any insured person.

  3. Natural Hazards

    The insurance policy covers involuntary damage caused directly by natural events such as storms (which are to be winds of at least 75 km/h), hail, avalanches, damage caused by snow falling directly on the vehicle (snow pressure), damage caused by rocks, stones, and earth, falling directly onto the vehicle (landslide), high water, and flooding. This aforementioned list is exhaustive.

  4. Snow Slide

    The insurance policy covers involuntary damage caused by snow or ice falling onto the Insured Vehicle. If branches break off and fall due to the snow load, the damage to the Insured Vehicle caused by the branches and snow is covered.

  5. Impact with Animals

    The insurance policy covers loss or damage to the insured vehicle caused by a collision with an animal. In order to qualify for coverage, the event must be officially recorded by the responsible authorities (e.g. the police or a veterinary surgeon), or confirmed by the animal’s owner. If no such confirmation is available, compensation will only be provided if the policy includes coverage for full comprehensive insurance.

  1. Full-Comprehensive Insurance

Only the Policy Schedule determines whether the Full-Comprehensive Insurance is included in the contract. If so, the coverages described below are insured in accordance with the following provisions.

Coverage and Benefits

  1. Accident

    The insurance policy covers damage caused by sudden, violent, external influences, in particular damage caused by impact, collision, overturning or falling, sinking in and sinking out, even if they occur following damage caused by out of circulation, breakage, or wear and tear, as well as damage caused by wilful or malicious acts by third parties. Twisting during tipping or loading and unloading are deemed equivalent to the external impact of a collision, provided that the operating and safety regulations are observed. If benefits are paid under this condition, we will not simultaneously pay further benefits per insured event under the coverage for damage to the parked vehicle.

  2. Vandalism

    The insurance policy covers intentional or malicious acts by persons who are in no way authorized to use the vehicle.

    In particular, persons who have been commissioned by the authorized person to look after the vehicle (e.g. workshop or hotel employees) or who are in a close relationship with the authorized person (e.g. their employees, family or household members) are to be regarded as authorized.

  1. Additional Insurance Coverage

The Policy Schedule alone determines which of the coverages described below are included in the insurance contract. The descriptions define the insured scope of cover.

1. New Car Replacement (Type of Compensation in the event of a Total Loss)

In accordance with the Conditions within D of these Policy Terms & Conditions, compensation in the event of a total loss shall be paid at current value (replacement price less residual value).

New Car Replacement

  • Option: 12 months:

    In deviation from the Conditions within D of these Policy Terms & Conditions, compensation in the event of a total loss is paid at new value (new car replacement) in the first year of operation (12 months from initial registration of the vehicle). From the second year of operation, compensation is calculated in accordance with the Conditions within D of these Policy Terms & Conditions.

Fees and other costs, such as inspection fees or delivery charges, are excluded from insurance cover.

The new value (new car replacement) is the price that would have to be paid on the day of the damage to replace a new vehicle of the same type. Only equipment and accessories supplied at extra cost by the original manufacturer of the vehicle are covered. Fees and other costs, such as inspection fees or delivery charges, are excluded from insurance cover. Any residual value of the vehicle will be deducted.

Any indemnity under this New Car Replacement option shall in all cases be capped at the Policyholder’s documented purchase price of the Insured Vehicle (excluding fees and other costs such as inspection fees or delivery charges).

2. Replacing the Keys of the Vehicle

If the vehicle keys are lost, we will reimburse the costs of replacing the keys and changing the lock, including reprogramming the immobilizer. In addition to the general exclusions, there is no insurance cover for theft of the key from inside the vehicle.

3. Glass Cover Plus

In addition to the Conditions within E. of these Policy Terms & Conditions, damage to vehicle parts made of glass or materials used as glass substitutes, is insured.

Damage to the vehicle's rear-view mirror is also insured if the bracket is damaged and needs to be replaced with the same part.

The light bulbs are also insured if they are destroyed when the glass breaks.

No compensation will be paid if the glass is not replaced or repaired or if the cost of replacing the glass corresponds to or exceeds the current value of the vehicle.

4. Chargers

Covered are only chargers and wallbox(es) permanently installed at the private residence of the policyholder or the named usual driver, if the vehicle insured under this policy is an electric or hybrid vehicle and is regularly charged at the respective device.

The insurance covers sudden and unexpected damage caused by:

  1. An unintentional handling error that leads to an internal malfunction;
  2. Malicious acts/vandalism by third parties;
  3. Theft;
  4. Bites and consequential damage caused by martens and/or rodents;
  5. Exposure to electrical current, including short circuits, overvoltages, or overcurrents;
  6. Overload; or
  7. Exposure to foreign bodies.

In addition to the general exclusions, the insurance for chargers does NOT cover the following:

  1. Functional damage, breakage, and wear & tear resulting directly or indirectly from the normal ageing process (in particular rust, corrosion, or oxidation) or from wear and tear, i.e. natural wear and tear;
  2. Direct and indirect damage due to thermal problems, in particular due to excessive temperatures, poor cooling, or other overheating;
  3. Damage due to material, processing, or construction, faults as well as damage or defects of any kind that existed before the insurance contract/policy was concluded;
  4. Damage caused by fire, lightning, explosions;
  5. Damage caused by forces of nature, such as (widespread) storm (with a wind speed at least 75 km/h), hail, avalanche, snow pressure, damage caused by falling rocks, stones, and earth masses (landslide), high water, and flooding;
  6. Damage to chargers/wallbox(es) that are not used to charge the insured vehicle under this policy;
  7. All damage to the building on which the chargers/wallbox(es) are permanently installed, as well as to persons and vehicles caused by the operation and use of the charging station.

5. Driver Protection Insurance

  1. Coverage

    In/Upon the occurrence of an insured event (as defined in Article 2 of this document), this Driver Protection Insurance provides the insured benefits (as defined in Article 4 of this document) to the Policyholder and/or the Authorized Driver(s) and/or the Insured Person(s) (as defined in Article 3 of this document).

  2. Insured Event(s)

    For the purpose of this Driver Protection Insurance, an "Accident" is any sudden and unintended external impact on the Policyholder and/or an Authorized Driver and/or an Insured Person that causes an impairment or injury to the physical, mental, or psychological, health of a Policyholder and/or an Authorized Driver and/or an Insured Person or the death of a Policyholder and/or an Authorized Driver and/or an Insured Person.

    This Driver Protection Insurance covers any Accident that: 1. occurs while a Policyholder and/or an Authorized Driver and/or an Insured Person is driving the Insured Vehicle and 2. is caused solely by a Policyholder and/or an Authorized Driver and/or an Insured Person, i.e. an Accident for which no third party can be held liable.

    In addition to the above, this Driver Protection Insurance also covers any Accident that occurs when a Policyholder and/or an Authorized Driver and/or an Insured Person is (by way of exhaustive list):

    1. getting into or out of the Insured Vehicle; or
    2. loading or unloading the Insured Vehicle; or
    3. proceeding with emergency roadside repairs to the Insured Vehicle; or
    4. participating in the rescue of a person(s) or goods in the event of a road accident; or
    5. the victim of a carjacking, i.e. when/whilst the Insured Vehicle is being misappropriated through the threat or use of violence.

    In the cases described under letters c), d), or e), above, the Accident may be caused by a third party who is held liable for the same.

  3. Insured Persons

    The Policyholder and/or an Authorized Driver and/or an Insured Person is entitled to benefits under this Driver Protection Insurance.

    An Authorized Driver is a person who drives the Insured Vehicle with the explicit knowledge and consent of the rightful owner or user of the Insured Vehicle.

    In the event of the death of a Policyholder or an Authorized Driver or an Insured Person, their legal beneficiaries/heirs will benefit from the coverage so provided by this Driver Protection Insurance.

  4. Insured Benefits

    In the event of an Accident, the Policyholder and/or an Authorized Driver and/or an Insured Person is entitled to the one-off payment of an amount equal to the base insurance sum (as defined in the Policy Schedule) multiplied with the following percentage depending on the type of Accident (by way of exhaustive list):

    Insured EventPercentage of the basic Insurance Sum
    Death100%
    Permanent Disability:According to type and degree of disability:
    a. Sense of sight in one eye50%
    b. Sense of hearing in one ear30%
    c. Sense of smell10%
    d. Sense of taste5%
    e. Arm70%
    f. Hand55%
    g. Thumb20%
    h. Index finger10%
    i. Other fingers5%
    j. Leg above the knee60%
    k. Leg below the knee50%
    l. Foot40%
    m. Big toe5%
    n. Other toe2%

    Recurring compensation such as disability pensions, daily allowances, or similar benefits, are explicitly excluded.

    The compensation from this additional insurance is independent of any other compensation from any private or public insurance. In the case of accumulation of the Insured Events described in letters a. to n. above, a maximum of 150% of the insured base sum will be compensated. The degree of permanent disability is determined by a recognized medical institution or an officially licensed medical assessor. In case of partial loss of senses or body parts, the percentage of that loss will be applied to the percentage of invalidity applicable to the insured base sum. For example, in the case of a 30% loss of eyesight, the indemnity will be 30% of 50% of the insured base sum, so 15%.

  5. Payment and Settlement Terms

    We shall confirm, in writing, within one calendar month whether, and to what extent, we recognize an obligation to pay, pursuant to this Driver Protection Insurance, one or more of the Insured Benefits (as defined in Article 4 of this document) to the Policyholder and/or to an Authorized Driver and/or to an Insured Person (as defined in Article 3 of this document) or, in the event of the death of a Policyholder or an Authorized Driver or an Insured Person, to their legal beneficiaries/heirs. This period begins once we have received a claim application and the necessary documents for assessment. If we acknowledge the claim or agree upon the basis and amount, the payment will be made within two weeks thereafter. If the obligation to pay is initially only determined in principle, we will provide appropriate advance payments upon any reasonable request that is made in writing.

  6. Right of Recovery

    If a liable third party is identified after the indemnity payment, we reserve the right to seek recovery from the third party, as permitted by law.

  7. Exclusions

    In addition to other exclusions, the following are excluded from the insurance coverage of this Driver Protection Insurance:

    1. Damages occurring because the driver intentionally commits or attempts to commit a criminal offence.
    2. Damages caused by a driver who does not have the required driving license at the time of the accident.
    3. Damages if the driver was unable to drive due to the consumption of alcohol or other intoxicating substances (such as Drugs) at the time of the Accident.
    4. Damages occurring during participation in officially approved motorsport events where the aim is to achieve maximum speed, including associated practice runs.
    5. Damages caused directly or indirectly by natural disaster, acts of war, civil unrest, or actions by public authorities.
    6. Damages caused by nuclear energy.
    7. Damages if an appropriate seatbelt fitted within the Insured Vehicle was not worn at the time of the Accident.
    8. Claims made by other insurers, employers, public institutions, and social security providers against us.
    9. Damages occurring while the Insured Vehicle is rented or requisitioned.
    10. Damages arising when the Insured Vehicle was entrusted due to their role to a garage owner or a person involved in the sale, repair, towing of motor vehicles, operating service stations, parking lots, car washes, or vehicle inspections, etc. and their employees.

6. Medical Expenses

  1. Coverage

    Covered are medical expenses for each person travelling in the insured vehicle who sustains injuries as a result of an accident involving the insured vehicle.

  2. Exclusions
    1. Claims made under more than one policy held with us by you or your spouse, common law partner or civil partner – benefits will only be paid under one policy.
    2. Incidents where the driver of the insured vehicle was operating the vehicle illegally, including reckless or dangerous driving, exceeding the legal alcohol limit, or being under the influence of drugs (whether prescribed or not) at the time of the accident.

7. Personal Belongings

  1. Coverage

    The insurance covers loss or damage to personal belongings in the insured vehicle caused by accident, fire, theft or attempted theft.

    Personal belongings include, but are not limited to:

    1. personal electronic devices (e.g. mobile phones, tablets, laptops),
    2. handbags and their contents,
    3. prams, pushchairs, buggies, and carrycots,
    4. the electric car charge card and charging cable, if the insured vehicle is an electric or plug-in hybrid car.
  2. Exclusions

    Insurance cover does not apply to:

    1. Theft or attempted theft if the insured vehicle was left unlocked, unattended, with windows or roof open, or if the keys were left in or on the vehicle;
    2. Theft of personal belongings not stored out of sight in the locked boot or glove compartment, unless the theft occurred while the insured person was in the vehicle;
    3. Money, stamps, tickets, documents, vouchers, or securities (e.g. share or bond certificates);
    4. Goods, tools, equipment, or samples carried in connection with any trade or business;
    5. Items which are already insured under any other insurance policy;
    6. Loss or damage to personal belongings transported in or on a trailer;
    7. Theft of prams, pushchairs, buggies, or carrycots if the insured vehicle was left unattended and the items were not locked in the boot;
    8. Any loss or damage if the insured vehicle was not locked while unattended;
    9. Theft-related claims where no visible signs of forced entry to the insured vehicle are present.

8. Courtesy Vehicle Costs

  1. Coverage

    The courtesy vehicle is only provided through an authorised Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) who also operates as our approved body repairer, and only if a vehicle is available at the time of need. Covered are the following cases in which the cost of a courtesy vehicle may be reimbursed:

    1. Accident (partial damage): When the insured vehicle is unroadworthy due to a covered incident and cannot be repaired and made roadworthy within 24 hours.
    2. Theft or total loss: When the insured vehicle has been stolen and not recovered, or has been declared a total loss by us.

    This provision solely governs the reimbursement of vehicle costs. It does not include or imply any insurance coverage for the courtesy vehicle itself. Insurance cover is defined separately under point 9.

  2. Type of courtesy vehicle

    The courtesy vehicle eligible for cost reimbursement must meet the following criteria:

    1. The same vehicle category or lower as the insured vehicle;
    2. Maximum engine size: 1.8 litres. For electric vehicles, a maximum power of 150 kW;
    3. Maximum market value: EUR 40,000.
  3. Duration of cost coverage
    1. In case of repairs: cost coverage is limited to a maximum of 7 days.
    2. In case of total loss or theft: cost coverage is limited to a maximum of 10 days from the date the loss or theft is confirmed by us.
  4. Your obligations
    1. You must notify us in advance before incurring any costs.
    2. Cost coverage applies only if we have confirmed acceptance in writing.
    3. You must retain and submit original invoices and comply with the conditions of the supplying garage or rental provider.
  5. Exclusions

    In addition to other exclusions, the following are excluded from the cost coverage:

    1. If the courtesy vehicle is used in connection with routine servicing, cosmetic repairs, warranty works, manufacturer recalls or voluntary maintenance;
    2. If the costs result from a vehicle breakdown. Please contact the OEM directly in such cases;
    3. Any fuel costs, tolls, parking charges, fines, penalties or other running costs related to the use of the courtesy vehicle.

9. Courtesy Vehicle Insurance

  1. Coverage

    The courtesy vehicle is only provided by an authorised Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) who also operates as our approved body repairer, and only if a vehicle is available at the time of need. Covered are the following cases in which a courtesy vehicle may be provided:

    1. When the insured vehicle is being repaired as part of a valid claim under this policy and the repair is carried out by one of our approved repairers, for a maximum period of 7 days, subject to availability.
    2. When the insured vehicle has been declared a total loss (write-off) or has been stolen and not recovered. In these cases, the courtesy vehicle may be provided for a maximum of 10 days from the date the loss or theft is confirmed by us.

    This provision solely governs the transfer of insurance cover. It does not include or imply any reimbursement or payment of costs related to the courtesy vehicle itself (e.g. rental fees). Costs cover is defined separately under point 8.

  2. Type of courtesy vehicle

    The courtesy vehicle provided will meet the following criteria:

    1. The same vehicle category or lower as the insured vehicle;
    2. Maximum engine size: 1.8 litres. For electric vehicle, a maximum power of 150 kW;
    3. Maximum market value: EUR 40,000.
  3. Cover for the courtesy vehicle

    Cover for the courtesy vehicle applies only if no other insurance cover exists for the same vehicle and use. The following conditions apply:

    1. The cover under this policy extends to the courtesy vehicle up to the maximum number of days as specified in point 1 and only while the insured vehicle is out of use due to a covered incident and all conditions under point 1 and 2 are fulfilled.
    2. Cover for the courtesy vehicle is limited to the following sections of this policy: Section C (Third Party Liability Insurance), Section F (Fire, Theft and More Insurance) and Section G (Full-Comprehensive Insurance).
    3. The same limitations and exclusions that apply to the insured vehicle under these sections will apply to the courtesy vehicle, unless stated otherwise;
    4. Cover for the courtesy vehicle ends automatically after 7 days in case of repairs or 10 days in case of total loss or theft, counted from the date the provision of the courtesy vehicle was confirmed by us. No extension applies unless explicitly agreed in writing.
  4. Deductible

    A deductible of EUR 1,000 will apply for each event and coverage.

  5. Your obligations
    1. You must notify us in advance before taking possession of the courtesy vehicle.
    2. Cover will only apply if we have confirmed acceptance of cover.
    3. You must comply with the terms and conditions of the supplying garage or rental provider, including mileage limits, driver eligibility and other requirements.
    4. Only those drivers who are expressly named in the policy schedule are covered to drive the courtesy vehicle. Any other driver is excluded from insurance coverage, regardless of vehicle use, incident type or circumstances.
  6. Exclusions

    In addition to other exclusions, the following are excluded from the insurance coverage:

    1. If you choose to have the insured vehicle repaired at a non-approved repairer;
    2. If the insured vehicle is undergoing routine servicing, cosmetic repairs, warranty works, manufacturer recalls or voluntary maintenance;
    3. If the courtesy vehicle is used outside the authorised period or you failed to notify us in advance;
    4. If you use any vehicle not provided or authorised by us;
    5. Any fuel costs, tolls, parking charges, fines or penalties related to the use of the courtesy vehicle;
    6. Use of the courtesy vehicle outside the territorial limits of the Republic of Ireland.

10. Misfuelling Cover

  1. Coverage

    Covered is the cost of draining and cleaning the fuel tank and fuel system if, during the period of insurance, the insured vehicle is accidentally misfuelled with an inappropriate type of fuel and has not been started or driven following the incident.

  2. Your Obligations

    The insured vehicle must not be started or driven after misfuelling, and all receipts and invoices must be retained as evidence of any costs incurred.

  3. Exclusions

    No cover is provided in respect of:

    1. misfuelling that occurred prior to the start of the policy period
    2. misfuelling caused intentionally or through gross negligence
    3. misfuelling by any person under the influence of alcohol or drugs
    4. any costs for repairing damage to the engine or mechanical components resulting from driving the misfuelled vehicle
    5. use of the wrong grade of the correct fuel type (e.g. incorrect octane rating or biodiesel content)
    6. more than two misfuelling incidents per policy year
    7. any VAT recoverable by the policyholder
    8. misfuelling occurring during theft or unauthorised use of the insured vehicle

  1. Data Protection

Helvetia is the data controller for this contract under data protection legislation. For the purpose of this section, ‘you’ or ‘your’ shall mean you, the policyholder, or any other person entitled to indemnity under this policy of insurance.

About this section

Everyone has rights with regards to the way in which their personal data is handled. During the course of our business activities, we will collect, store, and process, personal data about you. The purpose of this section is to give you some information about the collection and processing of your personal data. Further information can be obtained in our Privacy Policy which is available at https://www.helvetia.com/ch/web/en/about-us/contact/privacy.html

The Data that we collect

Where appropriate, we may collect the following personal data (‘Data’) from you and/or about you:

  • Contact and identifying information such as title, name, address, email address, telephone number, date and place of birth, gender, marital status, PPS number, VAT number, country of residence, and photographic identification.
  • Financial information such as bank account details, credit/debit card details, and income details.
  • Employment and qualification details such as occupation, job position, employment history, and education history.
  • Medical and health details including information related to personal habits (such as smoking or consumption of alcohol), medical history, details of any disability, injuries sustained, and diagnosis and prognosis for recovery.
  • Other sensitive information such as details of any criminal convictions and offences (including road traffic penalty points), civil litigation history as well as pending prosecutions.

We may also, in certain cases, receive sensitive information from which it may be possible to infer your trade union membership, your religious beliefs or your political beliefs (for example. if you are a member of a group scheme through a professional, trade, religious, community, or political organisation).

  • Information pertaining to the risk insured such as description of the risk, value of the risk, location of the risk, and claims history.
  • Claims data such as details of the circumstances of any incident giving rise to a claim under this policy, details of activities carried out following any such incident, details of any other claims that you have made, as well as financial, medical, health, and other lawfully obtained information relevant to your claim(s) including social welfare information.

The above list covers the main data types collected by Us. For further information, please see our Privacy Policy at https://www.helvetia.com/ch/web/en/about-us/contact/privacy.html.

We require this Data in order to manage and administer our relationship with you, to evaluate the risk and to assess the insurance policy premium to be paid, to validate and settle any claims, to bring and/or to defend legal proceedings, to prevent, to detect, and to investigate, fraud, and in order to generally take any steps required to fulfil our contract with you and/or to comply with our legal obligations.

Note: If you provide us with Data relating to another person you must first: (a) inform that person about the content of our Privacy Policy and (b) obtain any legally required consent from that person to the sharing of their Data in this manner.

Data collected from Third Parties

We may collect Data from third parties if you engage with us through a third party, for example through an insurance broker or, in the case of a group scheme, through your employer. We may also obtain Data from other third parties such as financial institutions, claims service providers (including private investigators), and insurance industry and government bodies, for the purposes described above.

What we do with your Data

We may use, process, and store, the Data for the following purposes:

  • Assessing which insurance products are appropriate for you, risk evaluation, premium setting, policy quotation, premium collection, policy administration, policy renewal, claims assessment, claims processing, claims payment, bringing and/or defending legal proceedings, recovering debt, marketing, survey purposes, statistical analysis, preventing, detecting, and investigating, fraud, as well as generally taking any steps in order to fulfil our contract with you and/or to comply with our legal obligations.

In order to prevent and detect fraud as well as the non-disclosure of relevant information:

  • We may at any time: Share information about you with companies within our Group as well as other organisations outside the Group including, where appropriate, private investigators and law enforcement agencies.
  • Check your details with fraud prevention agencies, as well as against databases and other sources of information. Below is a sample of the databases/sources used:
    • the insurance industry claims database known as InsuranceLink maintained by Insurance Ireland (for more information see www.inslink.ie).
    • the Integrated Information Data Service (‘IIDS’) which allows members of Insurance Ireland to verify information including penalty points and no-claims bonus information provided by their customers.
    • the National Vehicle and Driver File, maintained and supported by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, containing details of all registered vehicles in the Irish State.
    • Motor Insurance Anti-Fraud and Theft Register (MIAFTR) operated by the Association of British Insurers in the United Kingdom to log all insurance claims relating to written-off and stolen vehicles in the UK.
    • the Companies Registration Office.

The above list is not intended to be exhaustive (please see our Privacy Policy for more information).

In addition, we may check the Data that you have provided against international/economic or financial sanctions laws or regulated listings to comply with legal obligations or otherwise to protect our legitimate business interests and/or the legitimate interests of others.

Sharing of Data

We may share your Data (where appropriate/applicable) as follows:

  • With business partners, suppliers, sub-contractors and agents with whom we work and/or engage (including, but not limited to, tied agents, managing general agents, auditors, legal firms, medical professionals, cloud service providers, private investigators, third-party claim administrators, and outsourced service providers) to assist us in carrying out business activities which are in our legitimate business interests and where such interests are not overridden by your interests.
  • With other companies in the Group, partners of the Group, coinsurance and reinsurance companies located in Ireland and abroad, including outside the European Economic Area (‘EEA’). Where transfers take place outside the EEA, we will ensure that they are undertaken lawfully and pursuant to appropriate safeguards.
  • With other insurers and/or their agents.
  • With any intermediary or third party acting for you.
  • In order to comply with our legal obligations, to comply with a Court Order, or to cooperate with State and Regulatory bodies (such as the Revenue Commissioners or the Central Bank of Ireland), as well as with relevant government departments and agencies (including law enforcement agencies).
  • On the sale, transfer, assignment, or reorganisation, of our or our Group’s business (or any part of it).

In addition, information about claims (whether by our customers or third-parties) is collected by us when a claim is made under a policy and placed on InsuranceLink. This information may be shared with other insurance companies, self-insurers, or statutory authorities. The purpose of InsuranceLink is to help us identify incorrect information and fraudulent claims and, therefore, to protect customers. Under data protection legislation you have a right to know what information about you and your previous claims is held on InsuranceLink. If you wish to exercise this right then please contact us.

We will also add details of your policy to the Motor Third Party Liability Database maintained by the Motor Insurers Bureau of Ireland (MIBI). MIBI will make this information available to the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport and An Garda Síochána for the purposes of section 78A of the Road Traffic Act 1961 (as amended). MIBI may also use this information to:

  1. comply with its own legal obligations (e.g. to provide information to members of the public who were involved in an accident with an unidentified driver pursuant to regulation 5(5) of SI 651/2003 (as is, or may be, amended)); and
  2. for the performance of its obligations pursuant to the agreement with the Minister for Transport dated 29 January 2009 (as amended from time to time) which was entered into to provide compensation to individuals involved in accidents with uninsured drivers.

More details can be found on the MIBI data protection webpage: https://www.mibi.ie/data-protection

Finally, where you have consented to our doing so, we may share information that you provide to companies within our Group and with other companies that we establish commercial links with so that we and they may contact you (by email, SMS, telephone, letter, or other appropriate means) in order to tell you about carefully selected products, services, or offers, that we believe will be of interest to you.

Data Retention

The time periods for which we retain your Data depend on the purposes for which we use it.

We will keep your Data for no longer than is required or legally permitted.

Automated Decision Making and Profiling

You have a right not to be subjected to decisions based solely on automated processing, including profiling, which produce legal effects concerning you or similarly significantly affects you other than where the decision is:

  1. Necessary for entering into a contract, or for performing a contract with you (e.g. your policy of insurance);
  2. Based on your explicit consent – which you may withdraw at any time; or
  3. Is authorized by EU or Member State law.

Where we base a decision on solely automated decision-making, you will always be entitled to have a person review the decision so that you can contest it and put your point of view and circumstances forward.

Data Subject Rights

You have the following rights in relation to your Data, which is held by us:

  1. To ask for details of your Data held by us.
  2. To ask for a copy of your Data.
  3. To have any inaccurate or misleading Data rectified.
  4. To have your Data erased.
  5. To restrict the processing of your Data in certain circumstances.
  6. To object to the processing of your Data.
  7. To transfer your Data to a third party.
  8. A right not to be subject to automated decision making.
  9. The right to receive notification of a Data breach.
  10. Where processing is based on consent, the right to withdraw such consent.
  11. The right to lodge a complaint to the Data Protection Commission.

However, these rights may not be exercised in certain circumstances, such as when the processing of your Data is necessary to comply with a legal obligation or for the exercise or defence of legal claims. If you wish to exercise any of your rights in this regard a request must be submitted in writing to our Data Protection Officer. In order to protect your privacy, you may be asked to provide suitable proof of identification before we can process your request.

Privacy Policy

Please note that this Data Protection section is not a standalone section. It contains a brief description of the information you need to understand how your Data is used by us and should be reviewed in conjunction with our Privacy Policy.

If you have any questions about your Data, you can contact our Data Protection Officer:

Helvetia Insurance
Data protection
St. Alban Anlage 26
4002 Basel

Tel. +41 58 280 1000

datenschutz@helvetia.ch