Switching your car insurance can have financial benefits or offer better coverage. Sometimes switching car insurance is also necessary due to changes in your situation. The following guide will walk you through the process step by step – from cancelling your current insurance to concluding a new insurance policy.

Reasons for switching your car insurance

To save money
You can often save on premiums by switching to a different insurance policy. This is particularly true if you have been with the same provider for years and market prices have changed.

Better insurance coverage
It can make sense to change policies if a different provider offers more comprehensive cover, such as for gross negligence, parking damage or no-claims bonus protection. They may also offer supplementary benefits that are a better match for your needs.

Change in vehicle or situation
If you get a new vehicle, move home, or your driving needs change, you may need to switch your car insurance in order to remain optimally protected.

When can I switch my car insurance?

Regular period of notice
The term of the contract is laid out in the policy. If you do not have an annual entitlement to cancellation, you can cancel your insurance at the end of the third insurance year. Make sure you take into account the applicable period of notice, which is often set at three months. The period of notice can usually be found in the General Policy Conditions (GPC).

Extraordinary cancellation options
There are situations in which you can also change your insurance before the end of the regular period of notice. The most common ones are if your premium is raised, if you make a claim, if you change your vehicle or if the vehicle keeper changes. You can find more details on extraordinary cancellation options here.

Tips on the best time to cancel your policy
It is important to ensure a seamless transition from one insurance policy to the other, so that there are no gaps in coverage. So it makes sense to carefully plan the switch. Be aware of your period of notice and start comparing offers in good time. If you miss the cut-off date, your insurance policy will usually renew automatically for an additional year.

How do I switch my car insurance, step by step?

1. Compare offers
   Compare and request offers that are individually tailored to your needs. Would you like to receive advice? We will be happy to help you.
   
   
2. Cancel your old insurance policy
   Cancel your old insurance policy in writing, making sure to comply with the period of notice. This is best done by registered mail. Important: The date of the postmark is not important in this case, but rather when the recipient receives the letter. Make sure that your letter states that you want the insurance company to confirm the cancellation of your insurance.
   
   
3. Conclude a new insurance policy
   Once you have chosen a new provider, conclude the new policy. Make sure that you will not have any gaps in insurance coverage.
   
   
4. Reporting requirements and formalities
   In order to reinstate the vehicle, you will have to contact the driver and vehicle licensing office in your canton. To do this, you will need your vehicle registration and insurance certificate. The insurance company will send your insurance certificate to the driver and vehicle licensing office automatically. You will receive a new vehicle registration once it has been received and the vehicle is registered. The registration will also state the new insurance company and you can keep driving without worry.

Conclusion: Switching insurance is worth it 

Switching car insurance can not only help you to save money but can also ensure you are optimally protected. By carefully examining your options and making sure the switch is well planned, you can benefit from the advantages offered by a new insurance policy without worrying about any risks. Comparing policies pays off. Calculate the cost of a variety of offers or have your advisor support you with a comprehensive comparison.

Generali tip:
Many insurance companies have negotiated special conditions for certain employers or organisations. Ask about it at work, or mention your employer when asking for an offer. You could save up to 20% on premiums.