If you have a car, it is important to have car insurance to protect yourself from unnecessary expenses. Comprehensive car insurance is one of the most popular types of insurance in South Africa.
Unlike third party insurance, which only covers damage to other people's property, this insurance provides cover for a wide range of events, including theft, hijacking and accidents, including damage to your own vehicle. In this article we explain what comprehensive car insurance is, what it covers and how it works, features, advantages and disadvantages.
What is comprehensive car insurance?
Comprehensive car insurance is a type of car insurance that provides coverage for a wide range of events, including theft, hijacking, natural catastrophes, fire and accidents. It is the broadest type of car insurance available and provides the most comprehensive coverage for your vehicle.
Compared to other types of coverage, comprehensive insurance takes care of almost all financial losses related to your vehicle. In addition, it offers protection against third party claims for damage caused by your vehicle.
However, it is important to note that this comprehensive policy has a higher cost due to its broad coverage.
Why should I take out comprehensive insurance in South Africa?
Comprehensive car insurance is not compulsory in South Africa, but it is recommended as it is the best way to protect your property and your finances.
As we know, South Africa has a high number of road accidents and vehicle thefts every year, so having this type of insurance can protect you against unnecessary expenses.
Imagine a scenario where an accident is your fault, or fault cannot be established. Comprehensive insurance takes care of the repair costs, even in cases where you are at fault. The same will apply in the event of a fire, a natural catastrophe, theft or if it is considered a total loss (total destruction of the vehicle) the insurance company compensates you for its value before the damage.
What does comprehensive car insurance cover?
Comprehensive insurance covers your car against various risks, such as theft, hijacking and accidents. Here are some of the things that comprehensive car insurance covers:
- Theft, hijacking and accident: Comprehensive car insurance covers theft, hijacking and loss of your vehicle. In these cases your insurance company will pay you the value of the vehicle minus the excess you have to pay if your insurance has an excess.
- Accident cover: Comprehensive insurance covers damage to the vehicle in the event of an accident. This includes damage caused by collisions with other vehicles, as well as damage caused by other events, such as falling objects or hail.
- Third-party cover: Comprehensive car insurance also offers third party cover. This means that if you are involved in an accident and are responsible for damage to the vehicle or someone else's property, your insurance company will cover the cost of the damage.
In addition this insurance covers in other cases such as roadside assistance, vandalism, towing and storage, others.
What is not covered by comprehensive insurance?
Although comprehensive insurance covers a wide range of situations, there are exceptions. Here are some of the things that are not covered:
- Wear and tear
- Maintenance and servicing costs.
- Mechanical breakdowns
- Damage caused by illegal activities
- Damage caused by unlicensed drivers
Advantages and disadvantages of this insurance
Comprehensive car insurance stands out for its broad coverage, but it comes at a cost. The advantages are undeniable: protection against various risks. However, the premium can be higher compared to other coverage options.
Advantages of comprehensive car insurance:
- Provides comprehensive coverage for your vehicle.
- Protects you against a wide range of events
- Provides peace of mind
Disadvantages of comprehensive insurance:
- It can be more expensive than other types of car insurance.
- Can have a higher excess than other types of car insurance
Examples of how comprehensive insurance works
- Your car is stolen, you have your car insured with comprehensive insurance, the insurer after the period of time specified in the policy will pay you the full amount of the vehicle.
- Your car is damaged in an accident, the insurer must cover all repair costs or the total value if it is considered total damage.
- Your car is damaged by hail or falling objects, your insurance company will pay for the repair.
How to get a comprehensive car insurance quote?
Getting a comprehensive car insurance quote involves assessing your vehicle, driving record and other factors. You can use online tools such as Quotes Advisor's Comparison tool or consult insurance providers directly.
To get a car insurance quote, you will need to provide the insurer with some information about you and your vehicle. In most cases this includes:
- Your personal details
- Details of your vehicle
- Your driving record
- Your insurance history
- Where you live
- Where you drive
- Where you keep your vehicle
- Other information
Why is it important to compare car insurance quotes?
Comparing quotes is essential to finding the best deal on comprehensive car insurance. Each provider offers unique features and benefits, so be sure to explore several options. This way you can get the best option for your vehicle and your finances.
Fully comprehensive car insurance companies offering the best value for money
There are many insurance companies in South Africa that offer comprehensive car insurance. As mentioned above, it is important that you look for companies that offer competitive prices for comprehensive cover.
Here are some of the companies that offer the best prices:
Cheaper comprehensive car cover
Although price matters, remember that cheaper is not always better. We know that this type of comprehensive insurance is more expensive than third party insurance, but as mentioned there are ways to find the cheapest policies. It is important to focus on finding comprehensive cover that suits your needs while staying within your budget.
Here are some tips for finding the cheapest comprehensive car insurance:
- Compare quotes from different insurance companies
- Increase the excess
- Choose a higher excess
- Install safety features in your car
Tips on how to take out comprehensive car insurance
When it comes to taking out comprehensive cover it is important that you consider several factors, so here are some tips to help you choose the best option for you:
- Compare prices: Get quotes from different insurers and compare their coverage.
- Lower premiums: Understand that lower premiums may mean less coverage.
- Excess: Opt for an excess that fits your budget. Consider increasing the deductible to reduce the premium.
- Review your policy: Periodically evaluate your policy to make sure it matches the value of your vehicle.
- Choose a policy that provides the coverage you need.
- Install safety features on your car to reduce your premium.
Why choose comprehensive car insurance?
Opting for comprehensive car insurance provides peace of mind and can save you money in the long run. Knowing that you are covered for a range of risks allows you to make the most of your driving experience.
How does comprehensive car insurance compare with other types?
Comprehensive car insurance is the most comprehensive type of cover available. Below we explain how it compares with other types of insurance:
- Third party insurance only covers damage to other people's property.
- Third party, fire and theft insurance covers damage to other people's property as well as theft and fire damage to your own vehicle.
- Comprehensive insurance covers a wide range of events, all of the above mentioned plus theft, hijacking, natural disasters, total destruction, accidents and more.
Conclusion
Comprehensive car insurance is more than just a cover; it is a safety net that South African drivers should always have in place. With its comprehensive protection, you can protect yourself from a wide range of events, knowing that your investment is safe. Although it may be more expensive than other covers, having this type of insurance can give you peace of mind and save you money in the long run. We recommend that you evaluate options, compare quotes and choose a comprehensive car insurance policy that fits your needs and budget.
Frequently asked questions about comprehensive cover
What does comprehensive insurance mean?
Fully comprehensive car insurance means that your car is protected with cover for a wide range of events, such as theft, hijacking and accidents, among others.
Who can drive your car if you have comprehensive insurance?
If you have comprehensive insurance, anyone with a valid and authorised driving licence can drive your car and they will be insured.
What is the meaning of fully comprehensive cover?
Fully comprehensive cover is synonymous with comprehensive car insurance.
Does comprehensive car insurance cover me or my car?
Comprehensive car insurance covers you and your car, guaranteeing financial protection in various situations. It also covers any damage caused to other people's property.
What if my car is stolen or written off?
If your car is stolen or written off, your insurance company will pay out the value of your car, minus any excess that you may have to pay.
Does comprehensive insurance cover vandalism?
Yes, comprehensive car insurance companies compensate for vandalism. It is also advisable to read your policy as some companies may have exceptions to this.
Is there comprehensive insurance for older cars?
Yes, a comprehensive policy can insure older cars. It is important to note that this can affect premiums, as older cars are considered high risk.
Author: Cristian Rennella
Update: 01/09/2023
Preguntas Frecuentes
When is the bets moment to ask for a quote for comprehensive cover?
Once you narrow down your options, you can ask your favorite 2 insurance companies their quotes to compare them.
Comprehensive coverage will pay if my vehicle is write off?
Yes, but, make sure it’s stated in your car insurance policy as, some companies may ask for special terms.
Is a comprehensive car insurance really necessary?
It’s necessary if you completely depend on your vehicle on your daily routine. You must try to imagine how well would you solve certain problems with no help at all and, without your car.