Elephant Car Insurance: A Comprehensive Guide

When you're in the market for car insurance, finding a provider that not only offers competitive pricing but also a comprehensive range of cover and unique benefits is key. One name that frequently pops up in discussions about UK car insurance is Elephant. But does Elephant offer car insurance, and what sets them apart from the crowd? This guide delves into the world of Elephant Car Insurance, exploring their policy options, valuable extras, and how you can potentially save money on your premiums.

What is Elephant Car Insurance?

Elephant is a prominent UK car insurance broker, recognised for its presence on comparison platforms like mustard.co.uk. They are known for offering a diverse array of car insurance policies designed to meet the needs of various drivers. As one of the leading providers, Elephant has established a strong reputation for its online presence, being the first company to sell car insurance online in the UK and having successfully provided over two million policies since its inception. This extensive experience and reach make them a significant player in the market.

Elephant's Policy Options

Elephant provides a wide spectrum of car insurance coverages, ensuring that most drivers can find a policy that suits their requirements. The core offerings include:

• Comprehensive Cover: This is the highest level of cover, protecting you against damage to your own vehicle, third-party damage or injury, and theft.
• Third Party, Fire and Theft: This policy covers damage to other people's property, and also covers your car if it's stolen or damaged by fire. It does not cover damage to your own vehicle in an accident.
• Third Party Only: This is the most basic level of cover, legally required to drive on UK roads. It only covers damage or injury you cause to other people or their property.

Unique Extras Offered by Elephant

What often distinguishes an insurance provider are the additional benefits they offer, and Elephant is no exception. They provide several extras that are not commonly found with all insurers, adding significant value to their policies:

Sports Equipment Cover

A standout feature from Elephant is their Sports cover. This specifically addresses the theft or damage of sports equipment due to fire or accident. If you're an avid sports enthusiast who regularly carries expensive gear, this can be a particularly valuable addition.

Stereo Cover

In addition to sports equipment, Elephant also offers Stereo cover as an option. This can protect your in-car entertainment system, including stereos, CD players, and other audio equipment, against damage or theft.

Optional Extras from Elephant

Beyond these distinctive features, Elephant also provides a range of more standard, yet still important, optional extras that you can tailor to your policy:

• Windscreen Repair: Essential for maintaining visibility and preventing minor chips from becoming major cracks.
• Personal Injury Cover: Provides financial support in the event of accidental death or injury to you or your passengers.
• Named Driver Bonus: Allows named drivers on your policy to build up their own no-claims bonus, encouraging responsible driving.
• In-car Entertainment Cover: Broader than just stereo cover, this can encompass other electronic devices within the vehicle.
• Drive in Europe: Grants you cover for driving your vehicle in European countries, typically for a specified number of days.

Benefits of Choosing Elephant Car Insurance

Opting for Elephant Car Insurance can bring several advantages, making it a compelling choice for many motorists:

Guaranteed Courtesy Vehicle

One of the most appreciated benefits offered by Elephant is a FREE Courtesy Vehicle. This ensures that you have alternative transport when your car is being repaired following an accident, minimising disruption to your daily life. This is a significant advantage that not all insurers provide as standard.

Legal Protection

Elephant policies often include Legal cover protection, up to a substantial amount, typically £100,000. This can help cover the costs of legal expenses if you need to pursue or defend a claim following a road traffic accident.

No Claims Bonus for Named Drivers

The opportunity for named drivers to earn their own no-claims status is a fantastic incentive. It encourages younger or less experienced drivers to be more careful on the road, as their safe driving can directly contribute to future insurance savings.

Windscreen and Glass Cover

Comprehensive cover often includes protection for your windscreen and other glass, making it easier to get minor damage repaired without impacting your no-claims bonus.

Extended European Cover

For those who enjoy road trips across the continent, Elephant offers up to 90 days of free cover when driving abroad, providing peace of mind when venturing into Europe.

Flexible Payment Options

Understanding that financial flexibility is important, Elephant provides various payment options to help spread the cost of your insurance premiums.

24-Hour Claims Line

In the event of an accident or incident, having access to a 24 hour claim phone line is crucial. Elephant ensures you can report a claim at any time, day or night.

How to Save More with Elephant Car Insurance

Beyond the inherent benefits of an Elephant policy, there are several strategies you can employ to potentially reduce your car insurance costs:

No Claims Bonus

Maintaining a good no claims history is one of the most effective ways to secure significant savings. Elephant, like many insurers, offers substantial discounts for drivers with a proven track record of claim-free years. Accumulating more than five years of no claims can lead to a considerable reduction in your premium.

Young Drivers

For drivers under 25, car insurance can be notably expensive. While Elephant's pricing will reflect this, consider options such as being added to a parent's insurance policy if appropriate, or completing a Pass Plus course. The latter can sometimes earn you a discount of up to 30% with certain insurers, and it's worth checking if Elephant offers similar incentives.

Marital Status

Interestingly, statistics often show that married men tend to attract lower insurance premiums than single men. While this is a demographic factor rather than a direct action you can take, it's a known trend in the insurance market.

Review Standard Features

It's vital to check what features Elephant.co.uk provides as standard. Benefits like a courtesy vehicle, legal cover, protected no claims, and breakdown cover can often be costly add-ons with other insurers. If Elephant includes these as standard in their policies, it represents even greater value and potential savings.

Parking Your Car

Where you park your car overnight can influence your premium. Parking your vehicle off the road, whether in a garage, on a driveway, or in a private parking space, is generally viewed as safer than leaving it on the street, and can often lead to a discount.

Elephant Car Insurance vs. Competitors

To illustrate how Elephant stacks up, consider a comparison of key features. While specific pricing varies based on individual circumstances, the general offering can be compared:

Note: The availability and inclusion of certain features as standard can change. Always refer to the specific policy documents for the most accurate information.

Frequently Asked Questions about Elephant Car Insurance

Does Elephant offer breakdown cover?

While not explicitly detailed in the provided information as a standard feature, breakdown cover is often offered as an optional extra by insurance providers. It's advisable to check directly with Elephant or on their policy details to confirm availability and cost.

Can I add a named driver to my Elephant policy?

Yes, Elephant offers the option to add named drivers to your policy. They even provide a benefit where named drivers can earn their own no-claims status, which is a significant advantage.

What happens if my car is stolen with Elephant?

If your car is stolen, your cover level will determine what is paid out. Comprehensive policies typically cover the loss of your vehicle. Third Party, Fire and Theft policies also provide cover in the event of theft.

Is windscreen cover included with Elephant?

Yes, windscreen repair is offered as an optional extra by Elephant. Whether it's included as standard within a comprehensive policy may vary, so it's best to confirm the specifics of your chosen plan.

How do I make a claim with Elephant?

You can make a claim by contacting Elephant's 24-hour claims phone line. Having your policy details readily available will help streamline the process.

Conclusion

In summary, Elephant is indeed a significant provider of car insurance in the UK. They offer a comprehensive range of policy types, complemented by unique extras like sports equipment and stereo cover, alongside valuable standard benefits such as a guaranteed courtesy car and legal protection. By understanding their offerings and employing smart saving strategies, motorists can find a robust and potentially cost-effective insurance solution with Elephant. Always remember to compare quotes and read policy documents carefully to ensure you are getting the best cover for your needs.