With increased fuel prices in Kenya, the cost of buying and maintaining a car is very high. It is, therefore, necessary to find other ways to save money. One way to do this is to find a good insurance cover for your car. One of the major traffic offences in Kenya is getting caught driving without an insurance cover. However, many car owners just buy cars and pick random insurers without keenly looking at the details in the policy for years. This could lead you to unknowingly lose money on unnecessary add ons.
Here are some tips that will help you find the right insurance policy to save money.
Compare annual rates
Before you settle on a cover, take your time to compare prices with other insurers. This will help you ascertain that you are getting the best deal. Many insurance companies give guidelines on available services and stipulated prices. You can also use online insurance comparison tools before settling on a policy. Additionally, buying insurance cover online is a time-efficient way to buy a cover.
Pick a trusted insurer
When picking out an insurance company, take time to conduct research and read user reviews so as to know more about the company. A top-rated insurance company will tend to have better services, fair rates and process claim issues faster.
Ensure your credit score is good
Frequently check your credit score as this may affect your premium. Do not put yourself in trouble by not paying back loans on time as ultimately this will affect you when you want to buy a car and insure it.
Set a good deductible rate
To avoid paying more money from your own pocket in case of an accident, set a higher deductible. This will also help you save up to 40% especially if you have never caused an accident.
Regularly review your insurance cover
Life is unpredictable. Every day you are on the road is a gamble. Therefore, review your insurance cover regularly to confirm that you have sufficient liability coverage for both property damage and bodily harm. Having minimal coverage equates to minimal protection.
Update the company on reduced mileage
In case you are not using your car as frequently as you used to, alert your policy provider. You could have lost your job, changed jobs or are just working from home but telling your policy provider may help you bargain for a lower premium thus saving you some money.
Be watchful during car repair services
After an accident, be alert when your insurance company recommends a car repairs shop for you. Some mechanics may give you fake spare parts that are not durable or even a good fit for your car. This may lead to yet another accident that may cost you your life.
Pick the right car
One of the major determining factors for the price of auto insurance is car damage and cost of repairs. When shopping for a new car, research and compare data on collision by car models. The new car dealerships usually have a booklet on relative collision insurance rates. Pick a car that suffers the least damage in case of an accident. It may cost more but it is also safer to own and allows you to have a lower premium.
Be wary of scammers
In Kenya, especially Nairobi, con men are always out to rip you off. People can stage fake accidents that can result in insurance claims against you. To avoid being conned, avoid bad driving habits. Maintain good driving practices like maintaining a good distance between your car and the one in front of you. In case you are involved in an accident take clear pictures and alert the police instantly.
Be on the lookout for discounts
Some insurance companies offer discounts to low-risk drivers such as parents, the older generation and people with long-standing safe driving records. If you fall in any of those categories, you may qualify for a discount. You can also look out for offers from your insurance company and take advantage of those.
Conclusion
Having a good insurance policy for your car protects you against incurring unnecessary out of pocket costs when you are involved in an accident. Additionally, it ensures that you, your passengers as well as other road users are protected during an accident. Do not be afraid to get a comprehensive cover as you can be assured of full coverage.