South Africans love leisurely road trips, and it’s no surprise with a country comprised of long, open roads. If you’re in an accident and haven’t kept your car insurance up to date, love can soon turn to hate.
Of course, you will have read your policy terms and conditions carefully at the start, but no doubt since you bought it, some things will have changed. A rejected car insurance claim can seriously affect your budget – leaving you with some hefty unexpected costs.
Budget Insurance recommends following these top tips to ensure you’re covered should you ever need to claim.
Tip 1: Prevention is the best cure
Make a start by maintaining your car regularly. Here are some of the things you can do yourself which don’t require a mechanic:
- Check your tyres often, fill them with air and change them if necessary
- Top up your brake fluid
- Maintain the recommended level of motor oil
Tip 2: Honesty is the best policy
When it comes to insuring a car, share the correct information about your insurance history. Things like car accidents, convictions or the right number of no-claims certificates. You really don’t want a past accident you failed to mention to be the cause of your rejected claim.
Tip 3: Don’t drink and drive
If you cause an accident, remember that if you are under the influence of alcohol, you are the guilty party, no matter what the other circumstances might be. In South Africa, punitive measures for drunk driving are being taken seriously, just take a look at this article.
Related: What is the legal blood alcohol limit this festive season?
Tip 4: Keep your end of the bargain
Pay your monthly premiums. One of the main reasons claims are rejected is due to unpaid premiums or late payments. It’s always better to make payment arrangements you know you’ll be able to stick to. Other important details to keep in mind are changes in bank details and deduction dates. For example, if you usually pay your car insurance mid-month and would like to change that to the last day of the month, ensure your insurer knows before the new deduction date. See, it’s that simple!
Tip 5: Update your insurer as and when things change
Even the best car insurance in South Africa can’t read your mind. Should anything from regular driver details to where you park your car change, let your insurer know. Maybe you’ve moved to a new place and security measures are not the same, give an update on that too. Here’s a list of other pointers you should share with them too:
- Who is the main driver?
- Are there any additional drivers?
- Have you changed your home or work address?
- What do you use the vehicle for, i.e. Business, leisure or both
Now you know how to keep your car insurance in check
So, there you have it, five simple things to keep in mind that will ensure your claim is paid. Get a car insurance quote today if you need comprehensive car insurance. Our claims team is always ready to help at 0861 60 01 20.
