These days, your car probably knows more about you than your mum. Who would’ve thought that our cars would have the inside scoop about our speedy habits, musical taste, type of routes we prefer (long way with less robots, anyone? Or direct as possible, to hang with the potholes?) and so much more.
Our phones we can believe, just maybe. But our cars ‘knowing’ stuff about us?
It’s actually wild how much modern cars can pick up, from where you drive to most often to how fast you brake. It seems that modern cars are basically data machines on wheels, and while all that info can make driving safer and insurance smarter, it also raises an important question… How much do you actually know about how your insurer uses that data?
Let’s lift the bonnet on how data and transparency work when it comes to car insurance with the king.
Look who’s talking // What your car’s data says about you
Modern cars are filled with sensors, telematics, and built-in connectivity features that collect a lot of info. We’re talking about info about things like your speed, mileage, cornering, and braking habits. All of this can all be tracked, and the same goes for location data and even how often you use certain driver-assist features.
In the insurance world, this kind of data helps build a picture of how risky or safe you are to insure. For example, if your driving patterns show that you’re cautious and consistent, you could be seen as a lower-risk driver. But if you drive like a movie stunt double, well, the data will show that, too.
So far, not so bad.
Transparency matters more than ever
The reality is that you only know what you’ve been told. Truthfully, none of us regular humans can say that we’ve read the Ts and Cs of any software update we’ve confirmed. So, we’re not judging anyone who has agreed to telematics and other tracking mechanisms without reading through all the ways in which your data could be used, whether it’s by your insurer or any third parties they’ve said they’ll share the info with.
At King Price, we believe that honesty is the best policy. That means being upfront about how we calculate risk and how we use your info. Firstly, we believe that your data isn’t available for us to use to spy on you. Secondly, it’s to be used responsibly to ensure that your cover fits your lifestyle and driving habits. Thirdly, we believe in balancing what’s necessary to know in order to provide you with the right cover, while protecting your privacy.
Transparency is about giving you the full story. We’ll always tell you what kind of info we collect, why we collect it, and how it helps us look after you better. Because understanding your policy should never feel like decoding a secret message. In fact, that’s why we took pains to rewrite our policy docs in plain English, complete with examples and helpful designs that serve to highlight what you need to know.
Why your data helps you, too
The right use of data means better pricing, faster claims, and even personalised cover. When insurers understand how clients drive, it allows for fairer assessments instead of 1-size-fits-all rates.
It also means faster response times if you’re in an accident since telematics can pinpoint your location instantly. So, while your car’s data may feel a bit intrusive, it can actually be your biggest ally in a tricky situation.
The king’s advice
At the end of the day, King Price is all about keeping your insurance royal, reliable, and real. We treat your data with care, use it for your benefit, and never keep you in the dark about how it’s handled. Because when it comes to your car, your cover, and your info, transparency isn’t optional… It’s the only way we roll.
The best ways to get in touch with us:
- Online: Use our self-service portal or mobile app.
- WhatsApp: Chat to us by popping a WhatsApp to 0860 50 50 50
- Call: Speak to our friendly and knowledgeable consultants by calling 0860 50 50 50
FAQs
1. Does King Price use telematics to track my driving?
Not at the moment, but as technology evolves, data-based risk assessments could become more common. King Price always prioritises transparency and client consent before adopting such tools.
2. What kind of personal information does King Price collect?
We only collect information that’s needed to provide and manage your insurance cover, for example, contact details, vehicle details, and claims history.
3. Can my car’s data affect my premium?
Not directly right now, but as the industry becomes more data-driven, driving behaviour could play a larger role in risk assessments.
4. How does King Price protect my information?
We comply with South Africa’s POPIA regulations and take strict measures to safeguard your data from unauthorised access or misuse.
5. Why is data transparency important in insurance?
It helps you understand how your cover is priced and ensures that your insurer is using your information fairly and responsibly.