Friday, January 16, 2009

Types of Car Inusrance in SA

By Tom Martens

Roughly 65 percent of South African motorists don't have car insurance. That is extremely worrying for the minority who do. What is preventing all these people from assuming responsibility and buying at least the basic cover?

Lets start with an overview of the insurance types. In South Africa, auto insurance cover has three basic forms.

The minimum cover is Third Party. This covers your liability (costs) if you damage someone elses personal property in an car accident. This includes other cars or structural property that may also be damaged.

You also have the option of buying Third Party Fire and Theft which would cover incase of any damage to your vehicle by fire, theft or attempted theft.

Comprehensive cover is the one that is recommended for most South Africans. And the aAdvantage of comprehensive motor insurance is that it is unique as it covers the most South Africans including Third Party Fire and Theft. It also extends to cover the damages to your own or someone else's car when you are driving it.

Drivers working in South Africa can obtain vehicle insurance options that can address the unique needs of operating a vehicle in this area. Such options include motorcycle, 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.

Start by shopping around and comparing quotes. It is easiest to research your options online, and you may also get a discount if you purchase your policy online depending on the company you decide 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.

During the purchase of insurance, you should check the maximum amount that you are going to paid if claimed. If this excess amount is high, then premium will also be high. Selection of maximum amount depends on you. It gives you benefit on long run, if you can afford higher excess amount.

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.

Receive discounts and pay lesser premiums by exceeding the security requirements mandated by your insurance company. So get your vehicle installed with security gadgets that exceeds the minimums specified by your insurer.

If you live in a high crime area, your car is at greater risk for theft or hijacking. Consider moving to get lower premiums. You can also receive a discount if you park your car in a locked garage or behind locked gates overnight.

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. - 15224

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