Less Driving Doesn’t Mean Less Risk for Your Car

Insurers look at various factors when deciding your car insurance rate. These include how old you are, how long you've been insured without claiming, what model of vehicle you drive, how much travelling you do every month, and so on. So while lockdown may mean you are less likely to be in a car accident, the other factors are still at play.

There is still a damage or theft risk for you car at home

Just because you have your car parked at home doesn't mean risk is gone. Lockdown has bitten hard, and as the effects of unemployment become a reality for millions, it may give thieves a reason to break into cars parked on private residential property. Ensure that you keep your vehicle properly locked, even when it's in your garage. Don't leave doors open just because you're at home, when you don't have the car in your view from where you are in the house. It could still get broken into.

Winter weather is a risk factor too

Depending on where you live, the winter weather could increase the damage risk to your vehicle. Strong winds and rain during this time of year could damage your car, especially if you have low-hanging trees or clogged gutters above the parking area. And you should definitely cut down those dead branches and ensure there's adequate drainage for excess rainwater.

For some homes, winter means indoor fires, which pose fire-damage risk to the house and your vehicle.

You could still be in an accident

The chances of a road accident may be reduced at this time, but they are certainly not completely gone. You may need to drive around for supplies or, as an essential worker, to get to your workplace. And as we move into a phased lockdown, it will mean more traffic on the roads.

Make sure you don't find yourself in a post-accident situation where you have to pay out-of-pocket to fix your car, and potentially another person's as well, by staying covered during the lockdown.

Don't cancel your car insurance, rather shop around for a deal on Hippo.co.za. Our free comparison tool helps you compare car insurance quotes so you compare and save.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or medical advice.