Tips For 1st Time Car Insurance Buyers

The increase in car sales across the globe gave the industry a massive boost. But besides the fact that new car dealers insist on proof of car insurance before they let a new car off their showroom floor, there are many factors why we need to consider it.

Like most industries, the most car insurance companies have also developed, to give short term insurance clients a product that best fit their needs. Still, many clients are not educated to know what to look out for.

First, car insurance is buying you peace of mind. Driving any vehicle has always some risks involved, but at least you have the peace of mind that in case of losses incurred as a result of accidents or theft of your car, these losses will be covered by your policy.

Most car insurance companies offer different options when ensuring your vehicle, so take time to know exactly what they offer and what benefit you will receive in case of a claim.

It is a good idea to shop around for the best rates, as different short term insurance companies might have different claim histories over a certain period and they normally base their rates on this. Also, you need a policy that best fit your personal risk profile, which means that your premium does not subsidize another insurance client for its bad risk profile.

When shopping for car insurance, you can consider comprehensive cover; limited cover and third party cover. Comprehensive cover covers you against loss and damage of your vehicle. Limited cover (fire and theft) covers you against loss of or damage to your vehicle caused by fire, lightning, explosion, theft or attempted theft. Some short term insurance companies offer a theft excluded policy. This covers you against loss of or damage to your vehicle excluding loss of or damage caused by theft or attempted theft. Car insurance includes insurance for your motorcar, motorcycle, LDV, caravan or trailer.

When deciding upon an insurer, also consider that your vehicles value decreases every month. You do not want to pay a premium based on an old car value, and most people do not read their policy wording which states that the insurance company will only pay the current book value of a car in the case of theft or total loss. So be sure to regularly adjust the value of your car on your policy to avoid paying an unnecessary high premium.

The point comes to this. Take time when you are considering taking car insurance and also remember to ask your broker to explain the policy in detail.

By: Peter Owen