The South African car insurance market has some unique challenges. For the most part, South Africans have the choice of buying car insurance or not, so that translates into a majority of the country’s drivers operating uninsured vehicles. South Africa is also a very risky place to drive. It often leads the world in the number of traffic injuries and deaths each year.
Car insurance premiums seem to rise all the time and this is due to more dangerous roads and too many drivers without insurance.
Comprehensive Cover provides the highest level of protection, and, so, is the most expensive. Its cover includes protection provided by the two lesser types of cover, Third Party and Third Party Fire and Theft. These cover you if you damage other peoples property in an accident or if someone is injured in an accident that is your fault (Third Party) and in the event your car is damaged by fire, theft or attempted theft (Third Party Fire and Theft). Comprehensive cover adds to this by covering damage to your vehicle, limited medical expenses and replacement of broken glass.
This may not mean much to you right now. But when you realize that each time you get behind the wheel, you take the risk of damage to your car, to yourself, and to other people and property into your own hands, driving without insurance is really a frightening idea. Can you afford to repair or replace your car if you are in an accident? If you cause an accident, can you afford to repair or replace someone else car or property? What if your car is stolen, hijacked or vandalized? If you cant afford to pay for these things out of your pocket, you need insurance.
Now that you understand about the necessities of insurance, get details about the different options available, so you could lower your premiums.
One of the most influential factors is your driving record. If you have a spotty driving record, you will represent a greater risk to the insurance company, and your premiums will reflect that. Fortunately, if you keep and maintain a clean driving record, your premiums will start to go down. Drivers who already have a good driving record can receive discounts for each claim-free year.
When insuring a car, the a major factor is the type of vehicle. Higher risks are assigned to high performance vehicles. Also, insurance for luxury cars will cost more because they are more expensive to repair or replace.
Some insurances allow for lesser rates if you make your car more safe. Consider putting in a GPX or extra locks to hold down insurance costs.
Compare insurance rates by requesting quotes online. You will find the most competitive rates and may even receive a discount for purchasing online! Bear in mind that the lowest priced insurance policy does not always offer the best coverage. Evaluate your insurance needs and select the policy that covers you best while keeping your rates as low as possible.
Graham McKenzie is the content syndication coordinator for Carinsurancesa.co.za. South Arica’s leading Car Insurance portal.