Insurance is a confusing business. Odd terminology, fine print and high pressure tactics may keep you from really researching and comparing your options. While quick insurance shopping may get you a policy, it probably wont get you the right insurance policy.
Life, auto, and homeowner’s has several different types, and insurance companies offer a wide range of policies for each type. When you look for an insurance policy, begin your quest with an understanding of how the each form of insurance operates, so you can figure out which policies will work best for your individual needs.
It may surprise you to know that 65% of South Africans have no auto insurance at all. When we take the incidents of accidents and road injuries, this shocks us.
Auto cover is coming in three varieties, third party is the minimum coverage and guards you if you wound other person or hurt somebody’s belongings in an auto accident. Third party fire and theft will include cover that is provided below third party and will add security for impairment caused by fire, theft or attempted theft. A complete security is also provided to protect your automobile in an accident that is your mistake.
To ensure that you aren’t paying too much for expensive auto insurance, be sure to compare prices and quotes. To reduce your costs, try negotiating with the insurance companies for a lower rate. Also, think about asking for higher excesses, as well as increasing security measures to further reduce your premiums.
Term life insurance offers coverage for a specific time period. Also, this type of insurance can be designated to specific debts incurred. This type of insurance works well for families that have accumulated significant debt that can be paid off by the time the policy expires. This is also the least expensive form of insurance.
Whole life insurance is insurance that remains in effect throughout your entire life as long as you pay the premiums. There is no need to renew it and the premiums remain exactly the same year after year. Whenever you pass away, your beneficiaries receive a lump sum.
Universal life insurance cover is structured the same way as whole life in that it is permanent insurance with level premiums. In addition, it adds provides financial products such as a savings plan, investments and the ability to add a person to the policy. It is the most expensive life insurance option due to its flexibility.
Your life changes and it is always beneficial to check on the current status of your life insurance to make sure it is still meeting your needs.
In the past, when obtaining a mortgage loan, borrower’s were often locked in and required to purchase their insurance from the company specified by their lender. Now, thanks to the National Credit Act, consumers have freedom of choice, and can pick the coverage and provider that best meets their insurance needs. In most cases, lender’s still require that payment of insurance premiums be bundled with the mortgage payment.
When shopping for insurance, remember the old adage that the cheapest policy isn’t always the best. For example, a bicycle costs less than a car but it will not serve the same transportation needs. Hence, you need to find an affordable insurance policy that meets your particular coverage concerns.
Tom Martens is the content syndication coordinator for Carinsurancesa.co.za. South Aricas leading car insurance portal.









