Registration and insurance
On this page:
Do I have to insure my car?
When you register your car you are also covered for compulsory third party insurance. This insurance only covers you for claims against you when you cause an accident and somebody is injured.
If you drive a car on a Queensland road without registration and compulsory third party insurance and you cause an accident, the injured person may make a claim for compensation against a public fund called the nominal defendant. The nominal defendant can then make a claim against you for the value of the compensation.
There are other types of insurance for your car that is advisable to have. If you cause an accident and damage somebody else's car or home or belongings it can become very expensive if you are not insured.
Third party property damage insurance covers all claims made against you for damage you cause to other people's property. This type of insurance does not cover you for damage to your own vehicle.
Comprehensive insurance covers you for damage to your vehicle regardless of who caused it. This means that if you are in an accident, you only have to deal with your insurance company to get your car repaired no matter who caused the accident.
How can I lose the right to claim on my insurance policy?
You should read all the terms of your insurance policy carefully and make sure that you meet the requirements of any special conditions that bind you. Failure to do this may mean that the insurance company rejects your claim.
Do I have to tell the insurer of my driving and insurance history?
When you apply for insurance you are under a legal obligation to answer all the questions on the application form or which you are asked over the phone, fully and honestly. These questions are usually about your driving history and your history of insurance claims.
Will I be covered if I'm charged with drink or drug driving?
Most policies provide that if you drive while under the influence of alcohol or a drug you will not be covered.
Will I be covered if the driver is unlicensed?
Your insurance policy may allow the insurer to refuse a claim if your car was driven by an unlicensed driver when the accident happened.
Will my insurance policy be affected if I modify the car?
You need to tell the insurer when you mechanically accessorise your car or change it from the manufacturers specifications as this may allow an insurer under the policy to refuse a claim.
Do I have to register my car?
Cars that are driven on public roads in Queensland are required to be registered every year with the Department of Queensland Transport.