All posts in April 2015

The Number Of Fraudulent fronting Cases Rises Amongst Car Insurance Claims

By como on

It has been revealed that the practice of fronting has climbed dramatically over the last two years according to a recently published report. The rise in the number of cases where parents insure their childs car in their own name to try to keep costs down, but in fact, the child is the main driver of the vehicle, is seen by law as a fraudulent act of deceiving the insurer.

Fronting has now become a major car insurance fraud problem, but the report is set to uncover that this and other schemes of submitting falsified information by consumers has increased by 30 per cent since 2007.

These deceitful claims are now costing the insurance industry billions of euros each year and are set to continue to rise. It is thought that the crackdown on insurance cheats when they are making a claim has actually led to this climb in fraud, but the industry is determined to attack these figures too.

One insurance expert said, “Through closer scrutiny of proposal forms and claims, as well as the exchange of information through industry-wide databases, the net is tightening on the cheats. Anyone who sees insurance as a soft touch can end up with a criminal record, credit problems and costlier and harder-to-obtain insurance.”

Although fronting is classed as a fraudulent act, many parents are unaware it is a criminal offence and carry out the practice in blissful ignorance, but industry bosses are appealing to parents to avoid the exercise as it may result in severe consequences.

The reality is that if fronting is detected when a claim is made, insurers can refuse to pay out for any claims or can settle a third party claim and recover the cost from the parent as the policyholder. However, if the insurance company denies the claim, the young driver can be treated as an uninsured motorist and face a large fine and even penalty points on their license. They are also likely to face higher insurance premiums in the future.

The report has also highlighted an increase in walk away claims which involve the insurer being suspicious of possible fraud, so will ask for further details from the claimant, at which point the claimant no longer pursues the claim. Although this is not confirmation a fraudulent claim has been attempted, the insurance industry believe it is a likely indicator of such behaviour.

Why Do Car Insurance Quotes In The Uae Vary

By como on

Most people seeking car insurance in the UAE often wonder why the quotes vary so much. Since car insurance is amongst the most commonly acquired, it is no surprise that several companies offer various different levels of cover and price options in Dubai.

Listed below are key reasons for the difference:

1.The type of vehicle is one of the key factors in determining the premium for your car insurance. For example, a standard car will have a relatively lower quote, as compared to a luxury car. And something exorbitant like a sports car will invariably attract a higher premium because of the high repair costs and the high performance nature of these models.

2.While insuring a luxury vehicle, it is best to choose an insurance company which offers a high level of protection, good customer service and prompt claim settlement. Infact, certain insurance companies specialise in luxury and high value vehicles, so ensure you explore your options.

3.An insurance cover that includes repairs at authorised dealers” workshop may be priced slightly higher than an insurance cover which has a non-dealer repair option.

4.Drivers below 25 years are often charged a higher premium. This is due to the fact that the insurance companies experience a high loss ratio for this segment. Driving experience and the claim history are an important factor in premium determination.

5.Most insurance companies offer a comprehensive and a third party cover. A few multinational insurance companies also offer an executive product which has premium covers and is priced slightly higher than a regular comprehensive cover.

6.Each year the car value depreciates anywhere between 10% to 20%. The premium is calculated on the value of the vehicle and therefore the premium would reduce proportionately. On the other hand, repair costs remain fairly static or may even increase due to inflationary factors. To balance the difference, insurers will impose a minimum premium or increase the premium rate as the car value falls. Many insurers offer comprehensive cover to cars until 5 to 7 years depending upon the insured”s claim history.

As an informed customer always ensure that you check the car insurance quote, read the policy documents and understand the covers when you purchase any motor insurance policy.

Explaining Car Insurance Policy And Its Premium

By como on

A comprehensive car insurance policy is a must as driving may be fun but at the same time it involves high risk in case of any eventuality. Third party insurance is a statutory obligation in our country but you can choose your preferences from collision coverage, comprehensive coverage and personal injury protection However, you must go in for a car insurance policy that provides total protection to you, your vehicle, your co-passengers and third party liability as while driving you and your associates are also at risk.

How is car insurance premium calculated?

Car insurance premium is calculated on the type of insurance and other factors as explained below:

Types of car insurance: Third Party Liability, Own Damage, Personal accidental coverage. Depending upon the insurance type you opt, your premium would be determined.
Cubic Capacity of Engine: Engine size is one of the important factors in calculating the premium. The higher the cubic capacity if engine, the higher the premium.
Car Model/Type: The new car demands more premium. As the car ages, its value is depreciated and the premium decreases.
Registration place: The city in which vehicle is registered is considered while calculating the insurance premium. If your vehicle is registered in Delhi and you use it in Chennai, then also the premium would be calculated on the basis of your registered state. The premium is higher in the metros as they are more prone to vehicle theft and accidents.
No claim bonus: If you do not make any claim during one policy year then you can avail discount on your next premium. The discount starts from 20% and can be increased progressively upto 50% on the Own Damage premium and is not extended towards Liability premium.

No Claim Bonus is portable and you can get the benefit if you purchase a new car as it is provided to the insured and not the insured car. It is basically a reward for safe driving habits of the policy holder. It is applicable, even if you want to change your insurance provider. You need to show the NCB proof from your previous vendor and can avail NCB discounts from your new provider.

The factors discussed above are the major factors that determine the insurance premium. However, apart from that there may be several other factors such as age and profession of the policy holder and the safety devices installed in the car that are used in calculating the car premiums.

Things To Do Before You Get A Car Insurance Plan in Singapore

By como on

For inexperienced car insurance coverage shoppers in Singapore, it can be very bewildering because you are presented with a lot of legalities as well as terms you don’t comprehend. But car insurance is often as simple as ABC when you’ve got a little guidance from specialists. The next few paragraphs can present you the important things you should know when trying to find a car insurance coverage.

There are many different car insurance products you can find in the marketplace. Hence you’re spoilt for choice. While you shop for a motor insurance coverage, you may come across many that you want. Even so you have to know what one to buy given your price range after some reviewing and browsing around. Sooner or later, you might end up using an insurance cover that’s best for your family. Whenever you can, use some help and advice and also search on the internet and you’ll be well informed about different nuances regarding car insurance.

You will be recommended to furnish a few documents while you purchase a car insurance coverage from any car insurance company. Your personal credentials may also be necessary. This is to make sure that those claims made on paper and also to make it easier for you to file for claims if you ever require it down the road.

While you submit the application, you should put forward your driver’s licence along with the application form. A photocopy of your identification card could be necessary too. Insurance providers wish to ensure that the quote they give you is correct just before delivering the certificate of insurance which seals their dedication to you. Also, the administrative personnel could have a look at your full name against the certificate of insurance to ensure that your name is typed accurately.

Should you be eligible for a no-claim bonus or discount, the insurer will usually want the renewal notice. Insurance companies will use the information as shown in this renewal notice. Various insurance companies may even print the accident records on it. The information within the renewal notice is reliable and true. Consequently insurance providers may use it to process the discount immediately.

If you got your license from a different country, some insurance companies (like NTUC) might require you to convert your driver’s license prior to offering you a coverage. If not you can still get the car insurance policy with additional fee. Even so, you can find insurance companies who are glad to accept any driver’s licence. You will need to provide a written confirmation of the no-claim bonus from the present overseas insurer for them to approve the discount you are eligible for.

Fundamental insurance policy terminology should be grasped to ensure you know what you are getting your family into when putting your signature the documents. The insurer’s representative or a broker can certainly explain things to you in simple English if you don’t comprehend anything.