| Using Incidence Rates To Make Better Buying Decisions |
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| Written by Graham McKenzie |
| Friday, 16 April 2010 11:59 |
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Consumers in the automobile insurance market often come across "incidence rates". This phrase, while confusing to some people, is actually a simple method for determining the level of risk for a specific vehicle.
Consumers in the automobile insurance market often come across "incidence rates". This phrase, while confusing to some people, is actually a simple method for determining the level of risk for a specific vehicle. When one applies for insurance the company is not only interested in their driving record, but also in the kind of car they drive. There are several factors that may affect the incidence rate of a car, such as its popularity among car thieves due to value after disassembly, weaknesses that could lead to accidents or failures, or the temptation that the driver will engage in reckless driving due to superior performance levels. How are these incidence rates determined? Whenever a vehicle is involved in a theft, accident, or traffic violation, the law enforcement agencies specify the make and model of the vehicle. These statistics are compiled into a database which shows which vehicle types are more likely to be involved in these incidents. The insurance industry uses these statistics to determine the risk level of each vehicle type and adjusts premium rates accordingly. It's common knowledge that sporty cars are more likely to get speeding tickets but many people do not know that cars with light colors are involved in more accidents as well. This information should be available to everyone, not just your insurance agents. You can talk with a car dealer or do an internet search on why your rates might be higher than everyone else. The vehicles that are more likely to be stolen according to the data are given much higher rates as some cars are never returned. You should consider installing some antitheft devices, such as an alarm or a GPS tracker. A GPS tracking device will increase your chances of the vehicle being recovered as well as decrease your monthly premiums. If your car is a color that's more likely to be hit by another car, such as white, you can add uninsured or underinsured motorist protection to ensure that you are covered in case the other driver isn't. Most of the time the insurance company will allow a lower rate in this case as they're protected from extra costs. Remember that even though it's illegal to drive without insurance it's still very common to find people who don't think they need it. You have to think ahead to protect yourself in this situation. It's very important that you know what the incident rate for your car is for all of the situations mentioned above. These would be accidents, theft, and the sad but possible possibility that your car could be completely destroyed in a car accident. Everyone might want to ponder their car choices a little bit more, and maybe choose the slightly more conservative car over the flashy white or yellow sports car. This could save you money in the long run, and it might actually help make you safer! DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice. Graham McKenzie is the content syndication coordinator for Carinsurancesa.co.za. South Arica's leading Car Insurance portal, which helps people save on their Car Insurance. |