There are times when we consider of getting a protection plan, but are
unsure of the types of policies there are out there. How do we choose
a policy that suits us? What kind of benefits does each policy have? These
are relevant questions that you should ask when you want to apply for
an insurance policy. In addition, you will also need to know what to do
in the event of an accident.
Here are some helpful tips that Uni.Asia General Insurance has put together
to explain what you should know when you apply for insurance as well as
what you should do if you are involved in an accident.
Shopping for the right insurance policy can be just as important as shopping
for the right car. Knowing what to look for and what questions to ask
can save you a significant amount on insurance premiums.
The basic principle of insurance is that many join together to pay for
the losses of the few. The insurance premiums paid by many go into a pool
of money which will be distributed to those unfortunate enough to be involved
in accidents or thefts.
Besides your own safety, you are also responsible for the safety of your
passengers, fellow drivers, pedestrians and other people's properties.
Insurance helps you live up to that responsibility by ensuring your ability
to cover the costs of potential damages or injuries. These are best satisfied
through your insurance coverage. In Malaysia, motor insurance is compulsory
for all motor vehicles under the Road Transport Act 1987.
- Write up your insurance profile
Make a list of relevant information on yourself and your vehicle. Examples are the type of vehicle you drive, where you drive your vehicle, the names of other people who drive your vehicle, where you live, optional safety features your vehicle has and your driving record.
- Shop around
Get quotations from more than one agent. Even though motor insurance rates are tariff-rated, do a little homework first. Shop around and select your insurer carefully. Your insurer should offer both fair price and excellent service.
- Ask questions
Ask about possible premium reduction. By accepting a higher excess amount, certain insurer would be willing to reduce or waive the loading imposed, thus resulting in a lower premium.
Ask about available discounts, such as for drivers with no at-fault accidents over a certain period of time, for good students, for non-smokers and for safety devices installed in your vehicle.
- Know your need
Avoid optional forms of insurance coverage if you don't need them. For example, if you already have a good health insurance plan, you may want to decline optional coverage for medical payments.
- Read your policy
Yes! Even the fine print. Ask questions if you don't understand. Most people miss important issues addressed in their motor policy.
For your convenience, keep your insurance information with you at all times. Make a copy of your cover note or policy and keep it in your wallet or car. You never know when it might come in handy.
Accidents are unavoidable, although knowing what to do in an accident will help
you better manage this stressful experience.
Here are some tips if you are involved in an accident :
- Remain as calm as possible.
- Check if anyone is injured.
- Immediately call the police (always!) and file a report.
- After an accident, the police will investigate the site. The vehicle involved and/or any resulting debris from the accident should NOT be removed, unless it is not practical and/or unsafe. This is because the physical evidence of the accident will be important to establish the liability, be it criminal or civil.
- If you or any other person have a camera or video recorder, take pictures of the accident scene.
- Try to get details of the other driver, making sure that you record his/her name and NRIC number (passport number if the driver is a foreigner), contact details and the vehicle registration number.
- Try to get details of any witnesses of the accident. Their information may be important to ascertain the cause of the accident.
- Make factual statements only, not opinions.
- Record all information.
- If the vehicle needs to be towed, document that information including where the vehicle will be towed.
- Contact your insurance company.
- Choose a panel workshop that you are comfortable with. Kindly refer to Uni.Asia General Insurance's Panel Workshops list.
Items you should always keep in your car :
- A notepad and a pen
- A disposable camera
- Your cover note or insurance policy
- Your insurer's or agent's contact number
- Your workshop's contact number
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