Risks You Didn’t Know Your Car Insurance May Cover

If you own a car, the chances are high that you have car insurance. It’s a smart choice to protect your asset and ensure that you are covered in the case of a fender bender, or a more serious car accident in which someone is hurt. It’s also wise because your vehicle may fall victim to criminal activity – in 2019/2020, there were an estimated 88 000 incidences of motor vehicle theft in South Africa.1

But while we are all aware of the main reasons to get car insurance, many women do not realise that a good car insurance policy may also protect you from a variety of other risks.

Insurance that makes your safety a priority

If you’ve ever had a flat tyre in the middle of the night, a car that won’t start in a storm or a breakdown on a lonely road, you know that it is not just an inconvenience, it’s also downright terrifying. Suddenly you feel vulnerable and in danger, not knowing when help will arrive or if a passing stranger poses a threat to you. 

Fortunately, most leading car insurance companies in South Africa provide a 24/7 Guardian Angel service during which time a representative of the company is sent to your location to wait with you until a qualified car mechanic is dispatched to fix your problem. Whether you are alone or with your kids, your safety should be a priority. 

Also, a good insurance company will have an app or crash detection system that you can use so that if you’re involved in a serious car accident, you don’t even need to call in. The app or device will register the impact and alert the necessary medical and roadside authorities. Speed is often of the essence in providing healthcare to accident victims and insurance companies are working to ensure that you get the care you need as soon as possible.

Insurance that aims to make your life easier

Isn’t it always the case – when you’re really busy, that’s when Murphy’s Law strikes. And something that could go wrong, does go wrong. 

But good car insurance could help you when you’re in a fix. 

• Run out of fuel? They’ll bring you petrol or diesel to get you moving again.

• Hit a pothole and got a flat? They will come out and help change your tyres.

• Lost your keys? They will pay for you to get a new set. 

• Flying stone chipped your screen? They will repair or replace, as necessary.

Simply call in, provide your ID number, and describe your problem. And once your membership is confirmed, help should be on the way. No judgements, no hassles. Just fast and efficient resolution. Which is what every busy woman really wants.  

Some car insurance policies may even be able to help you with things that have nothing to do with your car – providing you with contact details for plumbers, electricians, and other service people they have in their network who you may suddenly need. Ensuring that there’s no risk of a flooded loo just before you have friends around for dinner!

Depending on the type of car insurance that you have, you may even find that your car insurance gives you access to concierge services. This convenient service could help you book movie tickets, make restaurant reservations, or arrange a flight – ensuring that even your social life isn’t at risk.

Insurance that expects the unexpected

Weather can be wonderful, or it can wild. But it is very rarely 100% predictable. You may not think too much about it, but bad weather and natural disasters can pose significant risks to you and your vehicle. 

Hail, flooding, and fire can put your life at risk and damage your property. Your car insurance may offer you partial or full protection against these elemental challenges. Read your policy documents closely so that you’re informed and that these risks are clearly anticipated and managed. 

And in the case that your car is badly damaged by inclement weather, rest easy knowing that your insurance company can pay for a tow truck to move it to a safer location and can pay for storage costs if those become necessary. That’s good news for your bank balance.

Conclusion

Cars are the ultimate symbol of freedom and adventure – go where you want, when you want. And your perfect partner in that experience should be powerful car insurance that aims to take care of the details so you can concentrate on the journey. 

Oh, and if the road is better with music, you can tailor your insurance to protect your sound system too. Because driving without your favourite tunes to keep you company isn’t just a risk, it’s a disaster!

Brought to you by First For Women Vehicle Insurance. 

Disclaimer: This content is for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes only. We do not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability, and accuracy of the content. The views and opinions are those of the author and not necessarily those of the company.