South Africa’s yearly car accident toll is among the highest in the world. According to a 2013 report by the International Transport Forum and The Clark Law Office attorneys, vehicle-related calamities cost the nation more than R307-billion per annum. What’s more, the same period recorded a total of 58 312 motor thefts, and 139 572 smash and grabs.
With such alarming figures, it becomes clear why it’s so vitally important to have car insurance and peace of mind cover.
But I’m super careful!
While you may be a good driver, who obeys the speed limit and keeps alert of any potential dangers, you’re still at risk without car insurance. In 2010 there were approximately 9 797 413 registered vehicles on South African roads, with that number increasing daily.
What does this figure mean to you? Simply put, at any time and place you’re sharing lanes with a potentially reckless driver or faulty vehicle perfectly hidden amongst 9 797 413 cars. Although the odds are high, being covered protects you from costs related to unexpected damages.
If they crash into me, they’ll pay, so it’s not my problem.
Wrong. It could be your problem, and yours alone. How so? Well, the AA reports that an overwhelming 65% of motor vehicles aren’t covered in the country. Additionally, South Africa doesn’t legally require drivers to have car insurance. So, if you’re involved in an accident with another uninsured motorist, the chances of you recovering the costs of your damages can be very slim. Actually next to zero – let’s be honest. You should better hire a personal injury lawyer to file a claim (check out https://www.aspirantsg.com/personal-injury-lawyer/).
You can take the offender to court, but if they don’t have the cash to repay you, it’s going to be a losing battle.
The same applies to you. For example, if you collide with another vehicle that costs more than R 1-million, and are found to be at fault, you’ll have to pay their expenses. If you’re not insured, that entire amount will come out of your own pocket. Have you got a spare R1 mill? Didn’t think so…
You’ve got a point, but I rarely use my car…
You may leave your car at home and only use it on weekends to get groceries, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t vulnerable. According to the SAPS, about 59 097 vehicles were stolen in 2012, which equates to approximately 179 motorcars being taken every day. Since yours is largely unsupervised, it could disappear without a trace, leaving you without reliable transport.
Oh dear, I guess my car is vulnerable.
Yes, your vehicle isn’t as safe as you thought it was. Apart from theft, hi-jackings increased by 5.4% between 2012 and 2013, as stated by Africa Check. Even if you’re careful, you can’t control all the factors, we are sad to say.
I definitely need to get car insurance then!
Car accidents in South Africa are a common occurrence, which means insuring your beloved wheels gives you true peace of mind. If you’re a victim of vehicle theft or if you have a bumper bashing, you won’t be without transport for too long. Before you grab those keys and take your pride and glory out for a spin, make sure you’re covered for all those unforeseen circumstances.
At King Price, insurance is cheaper than you think…
