RCA insurance (Motor Third-Party Liability Insurance) is one of the most important forms of financial protection for drivers and road users. In the Republic of Moldova, this insurance is mandatory by law for all registered vehicles that circulate on public roads, whether they are used daily or occasionally.
What does RCA actually mean?
RCA is an insurance policy that covers damage caused to third parties as a result of a road accident caused by the insured driver. In other words, if you cause an accident, the RCA policy will compensate:
- material damage to other vehicles;
- destruction of property (fences, buildings, road signs, etc.);
- bodily injury or death of the persons involved in the accident.
It is important to note that RCA does not cover damage to your own vehicle. For this type of protection, CASCO insurance is required.
Why is RCA insurance mandatory?
The mandatory nature of RCA plays an essential role in maintaining safety and fairness in traffic. Its main purpose is to protect road accident victims, ensuring they are compensated quickly, regardless of the financial situation of the at-fault party.
Without RCA, in the event of an accident:
- the at-fault person would have to pay all damages out of pocket;
- victims might remain without compensation;
- conflicts and court proceedings would become much more frequent.
By introducing mandatory RCA, the state ensures a clear and functional mechanism for compensating damages resulting from road accidents.
Who is required to have RCA?
RCA insurance is mandatory for:
- private car owners;
- companies that own vehicle fleets;
- individuals or legal entities using vehicles for commercial purposes;
- motorcycles, trucks, buses, and other types of vehicles subject to registration.
Even vehicles that are not used daily must have valid RCA if they are registered and allowed to circulate on public roads.
What happens if you do not have RCA?
The absence of a valid RCA policy leads to serious consequences, including:
- administrative fines;
- seizure of the vehicle registration certificate;
- prohibition from using the vehicle;
- full financial responsibility for all damages in the event of an accident.
In the case of a serious accident, costs can reach very high amounts, far exceeding the price of an RCA policy, which is relatively affordable.
How long is RCA insurance valid?
RCA can generally be issued for periods of:
- 6 months;
- 12 months.
It is the vehicle owner’s responsibility to monitor the policy’s expiration date and renew it on time. Driving with an expired RCA is considered equivalent to not having insurance at all.
Why is it important to choose the right RCA policy?
Although RCA is a standardized insurance, there are differences between available offers in terms of additional services, the speed of the claims process, and customer support. Choosing a reliable insurance company can save you time and stress in the event of a road incident.
Conclusion
RCA insurance is not only a legal obligation but also an act of responsibility toward other road users. It provides financial security, legal protection, and contributes to a fairer and safer road system for everyone.
