Fully Comprehensive Car Insurance
In South Africa we have different car insurance policies that we can choose from. The three main categories of cover available are: third party, limited liability (also known as third party, fire and theft) and comprehensive cover.

Third party car insurance policies provide the least protection and will only cover you for claims from others should you be the guilty party in the event of an accident. Limited liability, or third party, fire and theft insurance, have the added protection against the perils (risks) of theft and fire However, you are still responsible to pay for the damage caused to your own car.

The top of the range product is comprehensive car insurance, an all-encompassing cover that allows for customisation and extension with add-ons and extras that allow you to structure you car insurance policy to suit your personal needs and lifestyle.

What is included in the cover?
Comprehensive car insurance comprises protection against the following risks:

1. Theft, vandalism and hijacking
2. Accident damage
3. Natural disasters such as fire, hail and storm damage
4. Explosions and riot damage
5. Towing and storage costs
6. Car hire – during the time your car is being repaired after an accident or until payout in case of theft
7. Falling objects
8. Third party claims for damage to property, injuries or accidental death
9. Medical costs as specified in your policy

Insurance companies products are not all the same so check your own policy to make sure what is included in the cover.

Comprehensive car insurance covers you for basically all the identified risks that you, as a car owner, could be subjected to. One important exception to note is that mechanical breakdown is not covered. On new cars this is covered by your car warranty and when the warranty period expire you can take out separate mechanical breakdown insurance, should you so wish.

Comprehensive insurance is your safest option, provide you with the most cover and is therefore also your most expensive choice of car insurance. This level of insurance has the widest range of options available to customise it to your personal requirements and can also be structured to cover vehicle accessories such as your sound equipment. If you have a top-of-the-range sound system, it would be in your best interest to have this included in your policy.

When you do need comprehensive cover?
Comprehensive cover is mandatory when you buy your car through a bank or other car financier and you will have to provide them with proof of the policy. It will also be essential if you drive an expensive car where the repair costs could be very high should you be involved in an accident. If you use your car for business you will need to arrange for business cover.

When don’t you need comprehensive cover?
In you drive a very old car that is paid off you may not need comprehensive insurance. Third party, fire and theft cover could be sufficient. You need to carefully consider all your options before making a decision. Your excess may be so high that you might as well cover the risk for damage yourself. Whatever you decide, you should not be without third party cover at the very least; that is a risk you should not take.

Conclusion
Gain knowledge on the subject of car insurance by searching the internet. Find out what your excess amounts will be, in particular make sure you understand what is included in your policy and what not (listed as exceptions.)

Never accept the first policy that is offered to you, shop around on the internet, you can get different quotes to compare before you make the final decision. With the internet, buying insurance has become much easier, you can apply online, there is no need to go and see someone in an office. You call the shots.