Published on : 02 September 20193 min reading time

No matter where you are in the world finding insurance that is suitable to your needs is not an impossible task. In shopping for car insurance, you need to know what the policy will cover and what you can do to save on your payments and premiums.

You can choose from three basic types of car insurance cover: Third Party, Third Party Fire and Theft and Comprehensive. Third Party is the minimum cover and pays for damage to other people’s property caused by an accident that is your fault. Third Party Fire and Theft adds to the minimum by including cover for damage caused by theft, attempted theft and fire. Comprehensive Cover includes all of this and pays to cover damage to your own vehicle in an accident that is your fault.

The most recommended car insurance for South Africans is comprehensive cover, it happens to be the most expensive but it also completely covers their risks. Now that you have been advised on what type of coverage you need, let’s take a look at how to get that coverage at the best price. The following is ten things you can do to reduce your premiums. Every suggestion listed may not work for you, but you will be sure to find something that will help you.

First, shop around and compare quotes. You can find substantial savings just by taking this step to educate yourself about your options. It’s easy to do this research online or through a broker. You can also get a discount if you purchase your policy online. Check with individual companies for this option.

Each policy comes with an minimum excess amount. This is the amount you will be responsible to pay in the event you file a claim. If you can afford it, raise your excess amounts to save money in the long run. Just be sure you can pay the excess when you file a claim.

Safe drivers benefit in the form of lower premiums. Each claim-free year may qualify you for a discount with your current insurer or earn a better rate with another company.

Always consider your insurance costs when you’re shopping for a vehicle. High performance and expensive car models cost more to insure due to their increased risk profile and expensive replacement parts. Be sure to include your insurance premiums in your car shopping budget.

If you live in a high crime area, your premiums will reflect that due to the increased risk of your car being stolen or hijacked. Consider moving, not only for better premiums, but for your own personal safety.

Keeping your vehicle off the street at night reduces the risk that it will be stolen or damaged, therefore reducing your premium.You could get a discount if you park your car in a locked garage or behind locked gates overnight.

You can add security devices such as gearlocks or global tracking devices that exceed the minimum requirements and receive a discount.Most insurance companies will have minimum security requirements for the vehicles it insures.

Keep the number of people allowed to drive your car at a minimum. This helps the insurance company more accurately calculate their risk, keeping your premium lower.

Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Many insurance companies are flexible about their premiums and will be willing to work with you in order to earn your business.