When you invest in a lovely, stylish bakkie, you naturally want to protect it. Making sure you get it serviced and repaired will help with this, as will driving carefully and cleaning your vehicle regularly. However, you also need to think about insurance cover, which can be costly for vehicles like this.
Fortunately, there are ways in which you can cut the cost of your insurance cover, and this could save you an impressive sum without compromising the level of protection you have. You can then benefit from peace of mind without breaking the bank. In this article, we will provide some tips on reducing the cost of insurance cover for your bakkie.
How to Cut Costs
Tonneau Cover for Security
One of the main factors that affects insurance costs is the risk of theft. An open load bed can make your bakkie more attractive to criminals, particularly if you carry valuable tools, sports gear, or personal belongings. By fitting a tonneau cover, such as a Isuzu tonneau cover, you can conceal and protect items stored in the back. These covers keep your possessions out of sight and also improve overall security, as breaking into a covered load area requires extra effort. Many insurers take the installation of covers into account, viewing them as a way to minimise risk.
Vehicle Security with Approved Devices
Boosting your bakkie’s overall security is a proven way to reduce insurance costs. Installing immobilisers, alarms, or tracking devices can make your vehicle less appealing to thieves and increase the chances of recovery if stolen. Some insurers even insist on these measures before offering comprehensive cover, while others provide discounts for vehicles fitted with approved systems. When choosing security upgrades, always make sure they are recognised by your insurer.
Right Level of Cover
Not every driver requires the same level of insurance. Comprehensive policies are often recommended, but in some cases, third-party, fire and theft, or even basic third-party cover might suffice. If your bakkie is older or has a low market value, paying for a higher level of cover might not be cost-effective. Striking the right balance between affordability and protection is key. Compare different types of policies and assess your needs to avoid paying more than you need to for your cover.
Clean Driving Record
Insurance is also affected by your history as a driver, so you need to drive carefully and try to maintain a clean driving record. Fewer claims, accidents, or traffic violations mean lower premiums, as insurers will view you as lower risk. If you have been given penalties in the past, developing safer driving habits now can help restore your record and reduce costs over time. Also, some insurers offer no-claims bonuses to reward drivers who remain claim-free for consecutive years. Protecting and building this bonus can help you save money in the long run.
Reduce the Financial Strain
By taking proactive steps, such as those outlined above, you can make your bakkie both more secure and more affordable to insure. With careful planning, the savings soon add up, allowing you to enjoy the joy of being a bakkie owner without the financial strain.