Comparing car Insurance quotes: What to look out for

Owning a car in South Africa is a necessity for many people, but it comes with risks. Car theft, hijacking, poor road conditions, and accidents are all too common. Car insurance is the peace of mind you need when you hit the road. But, with so many car insurance companies in South Africa, it can be overwhelming to compare car insurance quotes and determine which policy suits you. In this article, we'll take you through what you need to look out for when comparing car insurance quotes and why comprehensive car insurance is a smart choice. 

The Risks of Owning and Driving a Car in South Africa 

If you are considering buying a new or used car, or you already own a car, you know the ease of travel that comes with it. However, there are risks and concerns for every driver and passenger in South Africa, with good reason. According to the 2022 Global Peace Index, South Africa ranks 118 out of 163 countries in the world when it comes to safety and security.  

Car theft, hijackings, and accidents are unfortunately all too common occurrences on our roads.  

• Daily accidents. According to Sanral’s July 2022 report, there are over 800 000 road accidents in South Africa each year - averaging to 2,200 crashes every day on our roads.  
• Increasing theft. More than that, South Africa has one of the highest rates of car theft and hijacking in the world. According to the South African Police Service’s crime stats for first quarter of 2022/2023, the number of car jackings reported each quarter year on year is on the rise with very little sign of that trend changing. Over 47,600 cars were hijacked and stolen in 2022 alone. Last year, Tracker cited KwaZulu Natal and the Western Cape as the country’s hot spots for car thieves. This highlights the need for comprehensive car insurance that covers theft and hijacking. 
• Worsening road conditions. According to the AA, the deteriorating local and provincial infrastructure is eroding road safety levels, and contributing to the country’s road accidents. 
• Economic impact. Not only is there an emotional toll on those who are in accidents, as well as their families, there is also a greater financial impact. The World Bank Group’s Global Road Safety Facility states that 83% of road crash fatalities and injuries in South Africa happen to those within the economically productive age range. For many car owners, their vehicle either gets them to work, or is their primary source of income. It is imperative that small public transport companies, taxi drivers, and car owners have insurance to keep them covered in any circumstance. 

These statistics are alarming and underscore the importance of having adequate car insurance coverage. 

The Benefits of Comprehensive Car Insurance 

Comprehensive car insurance is the most complete form of car insurance coverage available. It provides protection against theft, hijacking, accidents, and other unexpected events.  

While it is typically more expensive than other forms of car insurance, such as Limited (fire, theft and hijacking), and Third party only cover - the benefits of comprehensive car insurance far outweigh the cost. 

1. Streamlined repairs. One of the key benefits of comprehensive car insurance is that it covers damage to your own vehicle as well as damage to other vehicles and property. This means that if you are involved in an accident, your insurance will cover the cost of repairs to your vehicle, as well as any other vehicles or property that may have been damaged in the accident, for which you are legally liable. 

1. Protection for theft and hijacking. Comprehensive car insurance also provides protection against theft and hijacking. In the event that your vehicle is stolen or hijacked, your insurance will cover the cost of replacing your vehicle. 

1. Added confidence. Finally, comprehensive car insurance provides peace of mind. Knowing that you are fully covered in the event of an accident or other unexpected event can help to reduce the financial and emotional stress that comes with these situations. 

1. Vehicle financing. If your vehicle is still financed by a bank, comprehensive cover is an obligation. 

What to Look Out For When Comparing Car Insurance Quotes 

When comparing car insurance quotes, it is important to look beyond the cost of the policy. While affordability is certainly an important factor to consider, it should not be the only factor. Here are some other things to look out for when comparing car insurance quotes: 

1. Coverage Limits: Make sure that the policy you are considering provides adequate coverage for your needs. Check the coverage limits for things like vehicle sum insured, liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. 

1. Excess: Check the excess amount, which is the amount you will have to pay out of your own pocket before the insurance company pays out. A higher voluntary excess can mean lower premiums, but it also means you'll have to pay more if you make a claim. 

1. Premiums: Compare the premiums from different insurance companies to find the most affordable option. Keep in mind that cheaper premiums may mean less coverage or higher excess amounts 

1. Discounts: Many car insurance companies offer discounts for things like safe driving, mileage limit-based pricing, and bundling policies. Make sure to ask about any available discounts when comparing car insurance quotes. 

1. Reputation: Research the reputation of the insurance company to ensure they have a good track record of paying out claims and providing excellent customer service 

The Benefits of Santam Car Insurance 

At Santam, we understand that you’re focused on building your future, let us help you protect it. We focus on making it easier for you with car insurance that suits your needs, our comprehensive car insurance includes a range of free value-added services, just one of the ways in which we deliver more value to clients.  

This is why Santam car insurance is one of the leading car insurance companies in South Africa. We have a long history that shows our track-record of providing quality coverage and exceptional customer service. Here are some of the key benefits of choosing Santam Insurance: 

1. Comprehensive Coverage: Santam Insurance offers comprehensive car insurance coverage, providing protection against theft, hijacking, accidents, and other unexpected events. 

1. Affordable Car Insurance Premiums: While comprehensive car insurance is more expensive than other forms of car insurance, Santam Insurance offers competitive pricing that makes it more affordable for South Africans. 

1. Flexible Excess: Santam allows you to choose your excess amount, so you can find a balance between lower premiums and a manageable excess amount. 

1. Make the smart choice and get lower premiums: You saved up for your first set of wheels. Now you can save on your premium. With SmartPark from Santam you save up to 20% of your car insurance premiums. This is ideal for people who work from home or don’t drive very often. You can also save by combining your car, home and contents insurance under one policy. 

1. Telematics: Save up to 25% when you install a tracking device. As a Santam client you can enjoy faster accident assistance and support via the impact detection. 

1. Umbrella Car Hire. As a Santam client, you have access to “umbrella car hire”. This allows you to list up to 4 vehicles which can enjoy 1 car hire premium instead of paying car hire premium on each. 

But there is more. 

At Santam Insurance, we understand the importance of providing you with comprehensive car insurance that meets your specific needs. Santam’s car insurance policies are designed to provide you with the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your vehicle is protected in the event of an accident, theft, or any other unforeseen event. 

One of the main benefits of choosing Santam Insurance for your car insurance needs, is our commitment to providing personalised service to each of our customers. We understand that every client’s situation is unique, and we try to ensure we provide you with the best possible insurance solution. 

In addition to personalised service, Santam offers a range of benefits that sets us apart from other car insurance providers in South Africa. These benefits include: 

1. 24-hour roadside assistance: Santam’s roadside assistance service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to ensure that you have access to help whenever you need it. 

1. Choice of repairer: Santam understands that you may have a preferred repairer for your vehicle, which is why we allow you to choose your own repairer. This gives you greater control over the repair process. 

1. Home drive assist: To keep you safe on the road, especially when you’ve had a little too much to drink, you can make use of Santam’s chauffer service. 

1. No-claim bonus protection: Santam also offers a no-claim bonus protection to ensure that your premium does not increase as a result of a claim. 

1. Third-party liability cover: Santam’s car insurance policies include third-party liability cover, which protects you against any legal liability that may arise as a result of an accident. 

1. Comprehensive cover: Finally, Santam’s comprehensive car insurance policies cover you for accidental damage, theft, fire, and natural disasters. 

Switch to Santam today. Santam Insurance is committed to providing South African car-owners with the best possible car insurance solution that meets their specific needs. Their comprehensive car insurance policies are designed to provide you with the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your vehicle is protected in the event of an accident, theft, or any other unforeseen event.