Recently, the region's car insurance market has become more price-driven, said AXA, a leading insurance brand in the GCC, highlighting the top five questions one should ask oneself before taking out car insurance.

Demand for car insurance usually spikes at the end of the year, and you may end up rushing out to buy your insurance while missing out on cover that is best suited for your situation, it added.

AXA is keen to create more transparency across the insurance market and is encouraging prospective customers to do a little homework to ensure they buy the most appropriate level of cover before making a decision, a statement said.

 The top five questions:

1.    What would you do if your car was off the road following an accident?
a.    If your insurer provides a rental car how long will the car be available?  Will they both drop it off and pick it up from your work to minimise the disruption of your day?

2.    How quickly does your insurer process a claim request?
a.    A less expensive premium might seem attractive, but in the unfortunate event you have an accident, you will need an insurer that is easily accessible, both through the phone but also through online channels.  If your insurer has specific agreements with garages to speed up the repair process, this is also a plus.

3.    If your car is damaged due to an accident who repairs it?
a.    Does your insurer have a reputable panel of repair centres, reviewed regularly to guarantee the quality and safety of the repairs, or do they expect you to get estimates and submit them for reimbursement?

4.    Do you use comparison websites?
a.    If you use them, make sure to check that you are comparing identical levels of cover and not just prices. When you compare prices online it’s important to check that the covers mentioned are also included in your quote. You may want to speak to an agent to get further explanations on the covers and services you would be receiving.

5.    Is your vehicle genuinely protected in all types of situations?
a.    Are you getting a full level of cover that includes off-roading, such as driving in the desert? Will damage caused as a result of fire, vandalism, or theft also be included by your insurer?

Franck Heimburger, chief personal lines officer at AXA in the Gulf, said: “We all have a million things to do, so whilst it’s tempting to choose the least expensive car insurance you can find, this can frequently end up causing you a headache.”

“We would recommend that customers take a little time to review what they are actually buying. Not all car insurance is the same and it’s important that you buy what you need rather than opting for the least expensive.  Asking the right questions and getting the right answers will save you time, hassle and money in the long run.  Getting cover from a recognised brand at a competitive price is a more sensible and safer solution than choosing the lowest premium or the most basic cover,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service