A Complete Guide to Car Insurance in Punta Cana: Full Coverage vs Law Insurance Explained

If you own a vehicle in Punta Cana—or are planning to drive during your stay—understanding how car insurance works in the Dominican Republic is essential. One of the most common questions we hear from clients is: What's the difference between “Seguro de Ley” (Law Insurance) and “Seguro Full” (Full Coverage)?

In this complete guide, we explain the main differences, who needs each type of insurance, and how to choose the right protection for your car and lifestyle.

✅ What Is “Seguro de Ley”? (Law Insurance)

“Seguro de Ley” is the minimum mandatory insurance required by Dominican law for all vehicles. Its primary purpose is to cover damages or injuries caused to third parties, not to your own car.

🔒 Core Coverages of Seguro de Ley:

• Third-party bodily injury (one or more persons)

• Third-party property damage

• Injuries to passengers

• Injuries to the driver

• Judicial bond services

• Basic roadside assistance

This policy protects other people in case of an accident you cause. However, it does NOT cover your own vehicle for accidents, theft, fire, or natural disasters.

✅ Who Should Choose It?

• Drivers on a tight budget

• Owners of older or lower-value vehicles

• People who rarely drive or only use their car locally

✅ What Is “Seguro Full”? (Full Coverage Insurance)

“Seguro Full,” also known as comprehensive or full insurance, offers a much broader level of protection. It includes everything in the “Seguro de Ley” package plus protection for your own vehicle.

🛡️ Additional Coverages in Seguro Full:

• Collision and overturn damage

• Comprehensive risks (fire, theft, vandalism)

• Glass breakage

• Water damage or flooding

• Legal representation & extended civil liability

• SURA Mobility (advanced roadside assistance)

• Rental vehicle coverage during repairs

• Mechanical assistance

• Passenger and driver injury coverage

• Property damage to third parties

This type of insurance is ideal for those who want peace of mind no matter what happens—whether you're involved in a crash or your car is damaged by a storm.

✅ Who Should Choose It?

• Owners of new or high-value vehicles

• People financing or leasing their car

• Foreigners or expats who want complete protection

• Drivers in busy areas like Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, Santiago

✅ Key Differences at a Glance:

Coverage Type:
Third-party liability
✔️ Seguro de Ley: Included
✔️ Seguro Full: Included

Own vehicle damage
❌ Seguro de Ley: Not covered
✔️ Seguro Full: Covered

Collision and overturn
❌ Seguro de Ley: Not covered
✔️ Seguro Full: Covered

Theft and fire
❌ Seguro de Ley: Not covered
✔️ Seguro Full: Covered

Glass & water damage
❌ Seguro de Ley: Not covered
✔️ Seguro Full: Covered

Legal support
⚠️ Seguro de Ley: Limited
✔️ Seguro Full: Extended

Roadside assistance
⚠️ Seguro de Ley: Basic only
✔️ Seguro Full: Full mobility services

Vehicle rental
❌ Seguro de Ley: Not included
✔️ Seguro Full: Included

🚗 Why Does This Matter in Punta Cana?

Punta Cana is one of the most dynamic tourist and expat destinations in the Caribbean. The mix of local traffic, tourists, and varying road conditions increases the risk of incidents. Many foreign vehicle owners choose full coverage to avoid headaches, costly repairs, and downtime in paradise.

✅ Why Choose Hernández Peguero?

At Hernández Peguero Insurance Brokers, we specialize in guiding international clients, expats, and property owners through the Dominican insurance landscape.

✔️ We work with top insurers like Seguros Universal, MAPFRE, Reservas, Humano, SURA, and More.
✔️ We provide bilingual support (English–Spanish)
✔️ We offer custom quotes based on your car’s value, use, and risk level
✔️ We help you with claims, renewals, and vehicle registration advice

📞 Ready to Get a Quote?

Whether you’re driving for the first time in Punta Cana or upgrading your coverage, we’ll make sure you get the right protection at the best price.

📲 Phone / WhatsApp: +1 849-514-9838
📧 Email: info@hernandezpeguero.com
🌐 Website: www.hernandezpeguero.com

Protect your vehicle and enjoy the road with confidence. Contact us today!