Tips
Deductibles in plain language: where they save and where they sting
A deductible is not a fine and not a trick. It is your share of the loss, and it lowers the premium. When to choose zero, when a percentage, and how not to be surprised at the workshop desk.
In insurance, a deductible is the amount you pay yourself when a claim happens. The insurer covers the rest. The higher the deductible, the cheaper the policy — and the larger your bill when something goes wrong.
Two typical formats
A fixed deductible is a set sum, for example UAH 2,000. A percentage is a share of the car value or of the loss, for example 0.5%. For a cheap part the percentage can exceed the part itself; for a total loss it can be predictable.
- an unconditional deductible is always subtracted
- a conditional one applies only if the loss is below a threshold — rarer, read carefully
When a zero deductible is justified
A new car, frequent city trips, tight paid parking, a driver who does not want to think about small parts. Zero costs more every year but removes the “is it even worth claiming” barrier. A separate zero for glass and lights is a convenient option.
When to raise the deductible
A careful driver, a closed car park, readiness to pay for a bumper personally. Raising the deductible is the most honest way to cut a CASCO premium. Do not set it higher than a sum you can actually take off the card without drama.
In travel medicine a deductible of tens of euros filters tiny pharmacy visits. If you travel with children, zero or a minimum is more comfortable: there are more visits.
The question worth asking
“Which risks does this deductible apply to?” The answer should be a list, not a nod. Theft, total loss, glass and collision can have different values. Write them next to the policy — future you, already at the workshop, will be grateful.