by Tom Martens

It’s not impossible for even those in South Africa to find the right car insurance if you understand your cover options and the techniques needed to save on car insurance 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.

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. First, shop around and compare quotes. You can find substantial savings just by taking this step to educate yourself about your options.

Each policy comes with a deductible, which is the amount you have to pay if you file a claim. People save money by selecting a higher deductible. Make sure if you ever file a claim you a sure to pay the deductible.

There are benefits to being a safe driver and having a good driving record. If you are safe driver and go a year without claims many insurance companies offer discounts on your premium. If your insurance company does not offer this you might want to look for one that does.

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.

You may be eligible for a discount if you park in a locked garage or behind a locked gate overnight. By not having your car on the street, you reduce the chances of it being stolen or damaged and this, in turn, reduces the cost of your premium.

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.

The number of people that are allowed to drive your car will effect your premiums. So when shopping for insurance, it is best to keep the people on the policy as low as possible. The reasoning for this is that the less people that drive the car will make it a lower risk for accidents or things happening.

Do not be timid about bargaining. Several insurance carriers have negotiable rates and will work closely with a potential customer in order to obtain new business.

About the Author:
Tom Martens is the content syndication coordinator for Carinsurancesa.co.za. South Arica’s leading car insurance portal.