Car insurance a need

RISKS: WHATEVER VEHICLE YOU DRIVE, YOU MUST CHOOSE RIGHT COVER

Having your own set of wheels makes getting from point A to point B so much quicker and easier. However, along with the convenience that comes with being a car owner, the risks of the road are all too real and you must ensure your car insurance is road ready.

Marius Kemp, head of personal underwriting at Santam, says car insurance has long been one of the most effective ways of preventing the financial fallout of car damage or a write-off, but with so many options, choosing the right policy can be daunting.

"The key to making the most informed decision lies in gaining a good understanding of the risks and what can be done to manage them proactively. Making sure you have adequate cover will provide much-needed peace of mind that if the unexpected occurs, you will have the financial fix you need to keep your wheels on the road," he says.

Road risks: know the facts and the figures

According to Sanral's most recent report, there are more than 800,000 road accidents in South Africa every year—averaging at around 2,200 every day. Many of these accidents are attributed to excess speed and driving under the influence of alcohol.