From year-end office parties and school concerts to weddings, festivals, and long-overdue catchups, South Africa’s spring-to-summer social calendar doesn’t hold back. And we love it.
We love all of it, especially the next morning when we head out for some alone time with a cup of coffee (from that place down the road) and our own thoughts. But we also know that more socialising often means more time on the road, and more exposure to things that can go very, very wrong.
So, before the party season really kicks off, let’s talk about how your car insurance can protect your ride… And your wallet… When your car ends up in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Your car is at its most vulnerable when you’re not in it
It’s a reality most of us don’t consider until it’s too late: A huge portion of car insurance claims happen when the car is parked. You’d think it would be while you were on the road, among all the other drivers, potholes, and roadworks. But take a moment to think about shopping centre car parks, street-side bays outside busy venues, and the occasional dodgy area you wouldn’t usually leave your car in (but did) because the event was worth it.
In actual fact, these parked scenarios are the high-risk moments where comprehensive car insurance can really shine. It covers damage or total loss caused by:
- Theft or hijacking.
- Fire or explosions.
- Vandalism or malicious damage.
- Accidents (like another car crashing into yours while it’s parked).
If your car isn’t comprehensively insured, a night out could easily end with a major repair bill… Or no car at all.
If your car is financed, credit shortfall cover could save you thousands
Let’s say your car is stolen or written off after a party. Your insurer will typically pay out the car’s value at the time of loss, based on your selected value type (which could be retail, market, or agreed). But what if that payout doesn’t settle the full amount that you still owe the bank?
The king’s royally outstanding credit shortfall cover steps in to pay the difference between the car’s value and the amount still owing on your car finance. Without it, you could be paying off a car you no longer own, while also trying to afford a new 1.
This is especially relevant during party season, when roads are busier, driving conditions are more unpredictable, and the risks of theft or accident increase.
Tips for staying covered and safe
Okay, so first of all you need to check your excess. You don’t want to find out it’s too high to claim when the damage has already been done. And then you should also take a few minutes to review any optional add-ons, because each of these play their part in helping you recover from an unfortunate situation. For instance, if your car is parked in high-risk areas often, you could consider adding our car hire to your policy so that you’re not without wheels during the claims process.
Our last tip is an obvious 1, but it has to be said… Don’t drink and drive. Not only is there the danger factor (which we don’t want for you), but there’s also how any drunk behaviour related to your claim can, well, void your claim. We’re not telling you how to live your life, but we can point you in the direction of the king’s cab. Add this to your policy and we’ll send drivers to get you and your car home safely if a little cheers to the end of the year ends in a big night out.
Don’t let 1 night wreck your whole year
It takes minutes to lose a car and years to pay 1 off. With the right combination of cover and common sense, you can enjoy every invite, event, and long-weekend getaway without putting your finances on the line.
Before party season hits full swing, check your car insurance… And if you’re missing anything, King Price can help you fix that fast.
Click here for a commitment-free insurance quote or you can WhatsApp us on 0860 50 50 50
5 FAQs
1. What does comprehensive car insurance cover?
It covers theft, hijacking, accident damage, natural disasters, fire, and damage to third parties, whether your car is moving or parked.
2. What’s credit shortfall cover?
It pays the difference between what your car is worth at the time of loss and what you still owe the bank, if your car is financed and written off or stolen.
3. Is my car covered when it’s parked outside a venue or at a party?
Yes, if you have comprehensive insurance, your car is covered when it’s parked, provided you’re not in breach of your policy conditions.
4. What’s the risk of not having credit shortfall cover?
If your car is written off or stolen, you may still owe the bank more than what your insurer pays out, leaving you with debt for a car you no longer have.
5. Can I add credit shortfall to my King Price policy later?
Yes, you can usually add it at any time, but it’s best to include it when you take out or update your policy.