If you own a 4×4 you may have noticed that the insurance rates are higher than a car. This is because a 4×4 vehicle is quite different than a car and therefore incurs higher premiums. 4×4′s have different features as well as different capabilities which have an effect on the insurance rate. You should know exactly what you’re looking for and exactly how a 4×4 will affect insurance rates before you choose to buy a 4×4 or 4×4 insurance.
The type of policy you have will affect what type of coverage you’re getting. All types of policies will cover other drivers and their vehicles in an accident. You can also get policies that cover your vehicle and your passengers along with theft and weather damage. 4×4 insurance has similar properties as regular car insurance however there are some slight differences. The main problem is that you’re going to do more damage to another vehicle if you hit them than you would in a car. Since the estimated repair costs will be higher they increase the insurance premium you have to pay.
Another important factor is that 4×4 vehicles are known as high profile vehicles. They usually will be a target for theft more than an average car. This is especially true if the vehicle is kept in a public parking lot. Those who have a 4×4 vehicle and live in the city will pay more for insurance since their vehicle is more likely to be targeted due to higher crime rates.
Also if you do get into an accident your insurance company may not cover some of the parts that you have. Many 4×4 enthusiasts add extra parts to increase the performance of their vehicles. If you have these parts attached they will most likely not be covered by your insurance company and may even cause your vehicle to be classified as a higher risk vehicle for having aftermarket parts. If the company offers insurance to cover aftermarket parts then you will be paying quite a bit more in insurance.
Off road driving is the biggest difference between 4×4 and regular car insurance. This option lets you take your vehicle off of the road and through other terrains. If you damage your vehicle, which is fairly likely, the damages will only be covered if you have a specific policy with off-road insurance. A standard policy will become void for the time you drive off road, leaving you to pay the damages yourself. Prices will increase if you regularly participate in races or other all-terrain sports with your 4×4. Some people choose to get insurance for these events just for one day to reduce costs.
The insurance basics are virtually the same besides these few factors. You will want to check with several insurance companies to try to find the best rate for your 4×4. You should also review the policies of the various insurance companies very closely as they may have different policies regarding your 4×4 and its coverage.
Susan Reynolds is the content coordinator for a leading South African Insurance Provider who specialises in Car Insurance.
Mail this post