Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Short Term Car Insurance

By Tom Martens

If you are researching short-term car insurance, you'll be sure to find out that prices are high, and could continue to rise. South Africa is a high risk environment for insurers. Knowing why and what you can do lower these costs for your situation is important in helping you make the right decisions.

Industry experts cannot ignore that South African roads are increasingly dangerous. The country is often a leader in traffic injuries and fatalities. The privilege of driving is constantly being extended, even to those who are not qualified drivers.First, let's examine what is driving the costs. Car insurance risk is the major culprit behind higher short-term insurance premiums.

Younger drivers have always been viewed as a higher risk. Drivers aged 18-30 historically pay the highest rates.As carmakers continue to upgrade their offerings, prices reflect those gadgets, leather seats, on-board computers and more. As car prices go up, so must the cost to insure them.

Insurers should consider that car theft and hijackings when they calculate their premiums. Statistics show a decline in thefts while hijackings continue to rise. In the homeowners insurance market the main factor is fraud. Some estimate that 6%-10% of short term insurance claims are fraudulent, that amounts to more than $2 billion yearly.

Even though you have no control over the number of fraudulent claims, you can keep their effects from impacting your premiums. Try making the offer to your insurer to submit to a polygraph test each time you submit a claim. Many will offer a substantial savings on your premium in return for your honesty. Now, how can you overcome these factors for your own personal situation?

For car insurance, start by increasing you excess as this can lower your premium. Take this into consideration as you gather quotes. Also, be sure you can afford to pay the excess amount you choose in the event of a claim.

Keep a clean driving record. The fewer claims you have, the less risk you represent. If you already have a sketchy driving history, research driving courses offered by automobile manufacturers and the Automobile Association. This can help offset a negative history. This is also an option for good drivers. Most insurers will consider reducing your premiums if you attend and pass one of these recognized courses.

It certainloy never hurts to install security devices. Not only will your rates be reduced, but your belongings will be secured. Devices that discourage car jacking, along with a global tracking system are wise choices to that end. If you can afford to do so, move out of neighborhoods known for elevated crime levels. Your car and homeowners insurance rates will decrease significantly.

You should look around for the best rates, but don't just go for the cheapest. Make sure the policy you choose is adequate as well as affordable.

About the Author:

No comments: