Friday, April 10, 2009

Different Types of Car Inusrance

By Tom Martens

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. 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 can add a minimum value by purchasing a Third Party Fire and Theft cover. That will cover the cost in the event of your car being damaged by or incase of 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.

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.

Begin by looking around and comparing quotes. It is much easier to research your many options via web. You could also possibly get discounts if you purchase your policy via the web if the company you want to work with enables this.

Drive safe and save on your premiums. Claim-free years should earn you rewards from your carrier. If not, scout for companies that would offer value rates to you.

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.

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.

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.

Never think twice to have a negotiation. When an insurance company is looking to get your business then they will for sure for an extent work on your terms

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