Your car is probably one of your most valuable possessions. So, naturally, you want to protect it with the right insurance. But with all the different types of coverage and terms to navigate, things can get confusing quickly.
One crucial term you need to understand to secure the ideal insurance policy is the sum insured. Read on as we explain it in details via this blog post.
What is Sum Insured?
Sum insured, also known as the insured value or coverage limit, refers to the maximum amount an insurance company agrees to pay in the event of a covered loss or damage to the insured vehicle. It represents the financial ceiling of the insurance policy and is determined at the time of purchasing the coverage.
Think of it like a safety net. If something unfortunate happens to your car, the sum insured is the amount you can rely on to get back on the road.
Factors affecting Sum Insured
Several factors influence the determination of the insured value for a vehicle insurance policy:
- Vehicle Value: The market value of your vehicle is a significant factor. Insurance companies often use current market values or depreciated values to assess the sum insured.
- Age of the Vehicle: The age of your vehicle affects its market value and, subsequently, the insured value. Newer vehicles generally have higher insured values compared to older ones.
- Make and Model: The make and model of your vehicle play a role in assessing the insured value. High-end or luxury vehicles may have higher values than standard models.
- Add-Ons and Accessories: If you have added special features, or accessories, or opted for additional coverage like zero depreciation, the insured value will be adjusted accordingly.
- Geographical Location: The location where the vehicle is primarily used and parked can influence the coverage amount. Areas with higher risks of theft or accidents may lead to higher coverage costs.
Why is it important?
Choosing the right coverage limit is crucial because it directly impacts your payout in case of a claim. There are two reasons why this is essential:
- Underinsurance: If the insured value is too low compared to your car’s actual value, you’ll be left covering the difference out of your pocket. This can be a significant financial burden, especially for expensive cars.
- Overinsurance: Conversely, if the coverage limit is too high, you’ll be paying unnecessarily high premiums. Remember, insurance premiums are calculated based on the risk involved, and a higher coverage amount means a higher perceived risk.
How to choose the right amount?
There are two main approaches to determining the coverage limit for your car:
- Market Value: This is the most common approach. The sum insured is based on the current car market value, taking into account factors like its make, model, year, condition, and mileage. This ensures you’re adequately covered without overpaying.
- Agreed Value: This option involves agreeing on a fixed insured value with your insurance company at the time of purchase. This amount is usually higher than the market value and provides guaranteed compensation in case of a total loss, regardless of depreciation. However, premiums for agreed-value policies are generally higher.
As the value of your vehicle may change over time due to factors like depreciation, modifications, or enhancements, it’s important to periodically review and adjust your sum insured. Regularly reassessing your coverage ensures that it aligns with the current market value of your vehicle and provides adequate protection.
Bjak is one of Malaysia’s biggest insurance comparison websites, offering policies from over 10 brands. Visit Bjak today to get your free insurance quote!
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