Drivers who want the best protection for their cars should consider insurance policies offered by established firms.
TO an enthusiast, an automobile isn’t just a machine – it’s a living and breathing being. But to regular folks, a car is an appliance that takes them from point A to point B.
One thing that both camps can agree on, though, is the fact that cars are investments that need to be protected.
Just like how you shouldn’t buy an automobile from an untrusted dealer, you shouldn’t purchase insurance from a fly-by-night underwriter.
For visitors heading to this month’s Cars@Expo, one company worth checking out is AAS Insurance Agency (AAS-IA), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Automobile Association of Singapore (AA Singapore).
With a history spanning more than 100 years, most Singaporean motorists have come to know AA Singapore as a provider of roadside assistance services.
In fact, over 80,000 members count on AA Singapore to be their motoring companion.
The most comprehensive insurance plan offered by AAS-IA is the Enhanced AA AutoPlan. Underwritten by AIG, said scheme’s key advantages include a $1000 excess waiver for clients with in-car cameras, a 36-month New-For-Old Replacement, Unlimited Loss of Use Benefit, and the Policy Lifetime Repair Guarantee.
Ideal for new car owners, New- For-Old Replacement guarantees that if the policyholder’s vehicle is damaged beyond repair within the first three years of purchase, it will be replaced by a brand-new car of the same make and model.
If the policyholder’s car is undergoing repair, they will be guaranteed unlimited use of a courtesy car. This vehicle will even be delivered to their doorstep for added convenience.
Meanwhile, the Policy Lifetime Repair Guarantee gives motorists peace of mind by guaranteeing accident repairs made at any of the eight AIG-authorised workshops.
If you’re less of a car nut, the AA Motor 365 plan, which is underwritten by Tokio Marine Insurance Singapore, might be more suitable for you.
AA Motor 365 doesn’t include the aforementioned benefits of the AA AutoPlan, but it does offer an excess waiver for the first accident claim if the policyholder has at least 40 percent NCD (no-claims discount), and no additional excess for drivers above 65 years of age. In addition, Honda, Kia and Mitsubishi owners can choose to have their cars repaired at the authorised dealers without additional charges.
Targeting motorists over 65 is the AA Senior Motor Plus plan, which is underwritten by Liberty Insurance. If you’ve got more than 30 years of driving experience and a 50 percent NCD, you’ll receive a 5 percent discount on your premium. If you’re an AA member, you’ll enjoy another 10 percent off.
Other policy benefits include a free medical exam (which is compulsory for renewing your driving licence) and complimentary transport to your destination in the event of an accident or breakdown.
Car ownership isn’t always a smooth-sailing experience. But having the right insurance policy means you can rest assured knowing there’s a trusty “brolly” which will come in handy on “rainy days”.
