Approximately 65 percent of South African drivers do not have auto insurance cover. That is an alarming statistics for the 35 percent of those who do. So, what is keeping that 65 percent from making the responsible decision and purchasing at least the minimum cover?
We will start with a look at the different types of insurance. There are three basic types of insurance in South Africa.
The minimum cover is Third Party. If anyone damage other’s personal property in an automobile accident it covers the liability (costs). This includes other vehicles or structural property that may also be damaged and also the minimum cover is third party
You can add to the minimum by purchasing Third Party Fire and Theft. This will cover you in the event that your vehicle is damaged by fire, theft or attempted theft.
Comprehensive cover is the one that is recommended for most South Africans. It has in it, Third Party Fire and Theft and also covers damage to your own vehicle in an accident that is deemed your fault. There is also an additional coverage in it which covers when you are driving someone else’s car.
Other vehicle insurance options are designed to meet the needs of drivers operating in the unique South African driving environments. These include motorcycle cover, off-road comprehensive cover, and caravan cover.
Because South Africa is a high risk insurance environment, premiums can be high. But you can take some steps to lower your premiums.South Africa is often a world leader in traffic injuries and fatalities and the roads are becoming increasingly dangerous. Car theft and hijackings are also all too common.
When deciding on a policy, it’s best to shop and compare quotes first. The best way to do this is by looking online which may enable you to get a lower price according to the company you want to work with.
Safe drivers pay lower premiums. If your current carrier will not reward you for claim-free years, check for better rates with another company.
Examine your excess amount. The higher the excess, the lower the premium because you are responsible to pay the excess in the event of a claim. If you can afford it, raising your excess amount will help you save in the long run.
Are you an owner of an expensive or high performance vehicle, if so you will end up paying more for premiums. These luxury vehicles attract high rates to insure as it is expensive to replace or repair. Keep in mind when buying a car that insurance premiums adds to the value of owning it.
Insurance companies often have minimum security requirements for the vehicles it secures, so if you add security devices that exceed the minimums, you could receive a discounted premium.
Living in high crime areas leaves you at risk for a car theft or high jacking. Considering a possible relocation could bring your premiums down a substantial amount.Parking your car in a safer enviroment such as a locked garage or behind locked gates could also give you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negoiate a deal with your insurance company, because they are very interested in keeping your business and willing to work out a deal with you.
Tom Martens is the content syndication coordinator for Carinsurancesa.co.za. South Aricas leading car insurance portal.
Tags: auto insurance, Automobile, car insurance, cars, Finance, Insurance, Money, motor insurance, motor vehicle insurance, Vechiles, Vehicle Insurance
