1. Road rage is not always covered by car insurance

Whether it’s a minor altercation or a more serious confrontation, road rage incidents and aggressive driving can lead to serious injuries and cause considerable damage to vehicles. Depending on the type of car insurance you have, damage resulting from road rage may not always be covered.

While most comprehensive car insurance covers damage from accidents and collisions, intentional acts of aggression or damage caused by aggressive behaviour is usually not covered. This implies that if you have comprehensive car insurance and become a victim of a road rage accident, you’ll most likely be covered. However, if your road rage results in an accident, your insurance policy may not cover it, as road rage is often listed as an exemption in many car insurance policies. And when it comes to third party car insurance, it’s important to note that your insurance provider normally won’t cover damages to your own car, even if you’re the victim of a road rage accident. This is because third-party car insurance is mainly designed to handle the responsibilities and damages related to the other parties involved in the accident – it doesn’t typically cover the costs of repairing or replacing your own vehicle.

It’s important you carefully review your car insurance policy to have a clear understanding of what you’re covered for and what exemptions apply, to ensure you’re protected in the event of a road rage incident.

2. Road rage can lead to higher car insurance premiums

When calculating the cost of premiums, car insurance providers assess a number of risk factors. A history of engaging in road rage incidents could raise concerns about your driving behaviour, while an ongoing pattern of aggressive driving or road rage incidents could result in you paying higher car insurance premiums.

To avoid potential increases in your car insurance premiums, maintain a clean driving record and address any anger or stress-related issues that could contribute to road rage. For more advice on finding the right car insurance cover at the best price, talk to an Insurance Adviser specialising in helping arrange insurance NZ wide, such as those at Max Insurances.

3. A calm and collected approach is necessary

Most road rage incidents are caused by poor driving behaviours or bad decisions that trigger a negative response. Things like tailgating, talking on a mobile while driving, lane changing at the last minute, or overtaking when it’s not safe to do so. In all of these instances, it’s easy for you or someone else to respond with aggression or anger.

Dealing with road rage takes a calm and collected approach to ensure both your safety and the safety of others on the road. When faced with an aggressive driver:

• Stay calm. Avoid engaging in aggressive behaviour or responding in any way. Remain focused on keeping you and others in your car safe and out of harm’s way.
• Don’t make eye contact. Making eye contact or responding in any way is likely to escalate the situation. Instead, focus on the road ahead and avoid unnecessary interactions.
• Keep a safe following distance. Increase the distance between your vehicle and the aggressive driver. Create some space to allow them to pass you to avoid potential confrontations.
• Report any incidents. If you feel threatened or in danger at any time, report the aggressive driver to the authorities. Take note of the registration number, vehicle description and location to assist with an investigation if required.
• Install a dash cam. Recording continuous footage of the road ahead while you’re travelling and keeping track of the date, time, speed, G-force and GPS co-ordinates, as well as in-car behaviour, can be helpful in road rage incidents or when you need to lodge a claim with your car insurance provider.

Car insurance protects your important assets

In New Zealand, road rage is a contributing factor to many cases of dangerous driving and serious accidents, and it’s not uncommon for road rage incidents to escalate into physical violence and face-to-face confrontations. By understanding the potential impact that road rage could have on you, those in your car, and your car insurance cover, and by taking the necessary steps to prevent aggressive driving behaviour, you’re helping to keep the roads safe for everyone.

Get help with car insurance, review your existing policy, understand coverage limits and exemptions, and discuss additional coverage to fit your lifestyle and needs, by contacting a Max Insurances Adviser. Get the right car insurance cover at the right price!

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Comprehensive Car Insurance

Comprehensive car insurance is often considered the gold standard when it comes to insurance coverage, as it provides the highest level of protection for your car and for others on the road. Here are the key advantages and disadvantages of comprehensive car insurance:

Pros:

• Extensive coverage: Comprehensive car insurance covers the widest range of scenarios, including accidental damage to your car and other cars, and any property. This type of insurance also covers against theft, fire, vandalism, and natural disasters, which means you’re protected in a variety of situations beyond just accidents.
• Protection for your car: In the event of an accident, comprehensive car insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing your car, regardless of who is at fault.
• Peace of mind: Knowing that you have comprehensive car insurance coverage can offer peace of mind, especially if you have a newer or more valuable car. Having to cover the significant cost of any damage incurred out of your own pocket, could easily set you back thousands of dollars.
• Optional add-ons: Some insurance providers offer the option to add extras to your comprehensive car insurance policy, such as roadside assistance, rental car coverage, key replacement, and more, tailoring your policy to your specific needs.

Cons:

• Higher premiums: Comprehensive car insurance tends to have higher premiums compared to third party car insurance because of its extensive coverage. If you have an older car with a lower value, the cost of comprehensive car insurance may outweigh the potential benefits.

Third-Party Car Insurance

Third-party car insurance provides a more basic form of car insurance coverage, protecting you against any claims made by other parties when you’re involved in an accident. However, as it’s usually the cheapest NZ insurance option available, third-party car insurance doesn’t cover any damage to your own car. Here are some other advantages and disadvantages:

Pros:

• Affordability: Third-party car insurance tends to have lower premiums, making it a more budget-friendly option for many drivers. Third-party best suits drivers of low value cars who are willing and able to pay for the cost of repairs or replacement.

Cons:

• Limited coverage: Third party car insurance doesn’t cover any damage to your own car, and only covers damage or injury caused to other parties involved in an accident.
• Out-of-pocket expenses: Because of its limited coverage, if you’re at fault in an accident, you’ll have to pay for the repair or replacement of your own vehicle.
• No protection from theft or natural disasters: Third party car insurance doesn’t provide any coverage for theft, fire, or other non-collision related incidents.

Find the right car insurance for your needs

Deciding between comprehensive and third-party car insurance ultimately comes down to your individual circumstances and preferences. If you own a newer, higher-value car and want maximum protection, then comprehensive car insurance is the better choice. However, if you’re on a budget and have an older vehicle, third party insurance may be sufficient.

When deciding on the right car insurance for your needs, it helps to get sound advice from an expert, such as those at Max Insurances. Talk to an Insurance Adviser today and get help navigating the options and finding a car insurance policy that offers the best balance of protection and affordability. No matter where you are located, Max Insurances can help you arrange insurance NZ wide.

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Tip 1: Secure your car properly

To make it harder for thieves to get into your car and to deter them from attempting a theft, always lock your car and ensure that the windows and sunroof are closed before leaving it unattended. Consider using a steering wheel lock, wheel clamps, or gear lock as an additional layer of security if you plan to leave your car unattended for some time.

Tip 2: Park in a safe and well-lit area

Parking off-street or in a garage is always the safest choice. But if this is not an option, park your car in a well-lit area or in a secure car park – if possible, one with surveillance cameras – as that can significantly reduce the risk of theft. Because thieves prefer to operate under the cover of darkness or seclusion, when your car is parked in a well-lit area or a monitored car park, it becomes a less attractive target.

Tip 3: Don’t leave valuables in plain sight

Leaving valuable items like laptops, smartphones, or bags in plain sight can attract thieves. Always take your belongings with you, and if you have to leave them in the car, store them out of sight or hidden in the boot. The less visible tempting items in your car, the less likely it will catch the attention of potential thieves.

Tip 4: Install an anti-theft system or immobiliser

Investing in a quality anti-theft system can significantly reduce the chance of car theft. Modern car alarms, GPS tracking devices, and immobilisers often deter thieves and help authorities recover your vehicle quickly if it is stolen. Most new cars come factory-fitted with an immobiliser or car alarm, but if this isn’t the case for your car, consider getting one installed. It’s a cost-effective way to protect your car and deter would-be thieves. What’s more, fitting an immobiliser could help reduce your car insurance premiums.

Tip 5: Be cautious with spare keys

Avoid leaving spare keys in obvious places, such as under the car mat or in the dashboard console. Thieves know where to look for spare keys, and once they have them, stealing your car becomes a breeze! Don’t leave the car running or the keys inside while you get out to run an errand, even if it’s just for a few minutes.

Tip 6: Protect valuable assets

Despite taking all preventative measures, car theft is sometimes unavoidable. That’s where car insurance helps. Comprehensive car insurance covers against car theft – as well as accidental damage, fire, vandalism, and storm damage – so you don’t suffer a significant financial loss in the event of car theft. Here’s a closer look at some of the important benefits of car insurance:

• Financial protection: Comprehensive car insurance provides coverage not only for theft but also for damage caused by natural disasters, vandalism, and accidents. If your car is stolen and not recovered, comprehensive car insurance ensures you’re reimbursed for either its market value or the agreed value specified in your policy schedule, so you’re not out of pocket when it comes to buying a replacement car.
• Peace of mind: Knowing that you have comprehensive car insurance provides peace of mind, especially when your car is parked in potentially risky areas. It gives you confidence that you’ll get support and compensation in the event of theft or any other covered damage.
• Rental car provision: Some comprehensive car insurance policies include provision for a rental car, which can be a huge help if you need alternative transport while you wait for your stolen car to be recovered or replaced.

Safeguard the things you value

While no preventative measure can completely guarantee protection against car theft, being vigilant and prepared goes a long way towards reducing the risk of car theft and improving the security of a valuable asset such as a car. To safeguard your valuable assets and provide peace of mind, get in touch with the Insurance Advisers at Max Insurances. Our team are ready to help you find the right NZ insurance cover to fit your budget and lifestyle.

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1. How safe is it?

Car modifications are any changes that make your car look, sound or drive differently from the manufacturer’s original specifications and can include:

• Cosmetic changes that alter the appearance of the car, such as a custom paint job, banners and decals, window tinting, spoilers, or a sunroof
• Functional enhancements that improve driver experience, such as wheelchair lifts, hand controls, custom seats, or steering wheel adjustments
• Performance enhancements that improve power and handling, such as new tyres and rims, lifted or lowered suspension, larger transmission, modified exhausts, or engine tuning

Any modifications made to your car must not put you or others at higher risk when you’re on the road. Well-fitted modifications may improve your car’s handling and performance, but your car’s safety could be compromised by poor installation, fitting parts that are inappropriate for your car, or by using poor quality parts.

Before going ahead with a car modification, carefully assess the risk and engage the services of an expert, someone who is experienced at completing similar modifications.

2. Is it legal?

All modified cars in New Zealand must meet Warrant of Fitness requirements and, depending on the level of modification, may also require Low Volume Vehicle (LVV) certification. Car modifications that may need to be checked by an LVV certifier include:

• Modified suspensions that alter the handling capabilities of your car, if the modification exceeds a specified threshold
• Engine conversions or modifications to enhance the performance potential of your car that could impact the braking system capability
• Racing seats fitted to provide better support should be checked for attachment and position in relation to safety belts
• Steering modifications

Check the technical standards information on the Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association’s (LVVTA) website to find out what’s required to ensure your car is safely and legally modified. Without LVV certification, you could be putting your own and other road users at risk.

3. How much will it cost?

Modifying your car may be seen as an alternative to buying a new car, allowing you to personalise it to your specific requirements. However, it’s not unusual for the costs to run into thousands of dollars, particularly when it comes to custom car modifications – things like paintwork, body work, or performance enhancements. Trying to cut costs for the sake of your budget can have negative consequences. Not only could fitting cheap parts reduce the lifespan of your car, it could also compromise your own and others’ safety on the roads. If you need some extra money to pay for the cost associated with car modification, our Personal Lending Team at Max Loans can assist with a personal loan to help customise your car just the way you want it. Give us a call on 0800 ASK MAX (0800 275 629) to discuss your needs directly or apply online for a loan.

4. Are insurance and warranties impacted?

Most car insurance providers prefer to cover cars that are factory-tested for safety and accident prevention. When a car is modified, its safety features may be compromised, potentially exposing the insurance provider to a higher risk of claims. While some car insurers will allow certain modifications and cover the car for damage, other modifications could drastically impact the insurance policy terms or make the car uninsurable. Additionally, any warranties may be forfeited when modifications are made.

If you are planning to modify your car, check what the impact will be on your car insurance and any warranty you hold to ensure you’re covered should things go wrong.

Get car insurance advice

Consult with a Max Insurances Adviser to find out how your car modifications might impact car insurance cover. As experts in NZ insurance, our advisers will work closely with you to help you find a car insurance provider that understands how important modifying your car is to you, and help you compare insurance policies to ensure you’re getting the best car insurance available.

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1. Secure your home

While it may be a time for giving and sharing with family and friends, this time of year also comes with a higher risk of burglaries and damage to property. Many insurance providers experience an increase in house insurance claims around the holiday season. If you’re heading away on holiday, here are some ways you can protect your home when you’re not there:

• Let your neighbours know you’re away: ask them to keep an eye on your home and report any suspicious activity.
• Keep your travel plans offline: don’t share your travel plans on social media.
• Hide packages and valuables: store your gifts and parcels away from prying eyes, whether outside at your front door or inside near a window, and lock away valuables in a safe place.
• Put a stop to deliveries: cancel deliveries like newspaper subscriptions or food bags and have a neighbour clear your letterbox.
• Turn off Christmas lights: these could be a fire hazard so it’s best to turn off or disconnect any lights before you head away on holiday.
• Fit an alarm system: installing an alarm system can add an extra layer of protection to your home. Talk to our Personal Lending Team at Max Loans about a Home Improvement Loan to help cover the cost of installing a home alarm system to further protect your home while you’re away.
• Check that your house insurance policy is up to date and covers you while you’re away: your insurance provider may require you to inform them when you’re going on holiday so check with your insurance provider, particularly if you’ll be away for an extended time.
• Secure doors and windows, install sensor lights outside, and keep curtains and blinds partially closed.

2. Get your vehicle ready

Avoid getting stuck on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck when you head off on a road trip, by ensuring that your car is road-trip-ready:

• Book your car in for regular maintenance checks and servicing including oil changes and tyre pressure checks. Our Personal Lending Team at Max Loans can help arrange an Emergency Loan to cover vehicle maintenance and repair costs if you need these done in a hurry.
• Check that your warrant of fitness and vehicle licence are up to date.
• Ensure you have the right car insurance cover for you and your family. Talk to a Max Insurances Adviser if you’re unsure about your cover.

3. Stay safe on the roads

Holiday driving can be frustrating! With more traffic on the roads, congestion and driving in unfamiliar areas, it’s not unusual for more car accidents to occur at this time of year. Keep you and your family safe on the roads with these helpful tips:

• Maintain a safe following distance from vehicles in front of you.
• Schedule regular rest stops because fatigue from long trips can be deadly.
• Plan your travel to avoid the busiest peak traffic periods so you don’t get stuck in traffic.
• Slow down and be patient through road-work sites.
• Drive to the conditions.
• Buckle up.
• Watch out for hazards such as children or cyclists on the road.

4. Check your travel insurance

It’s no fun worrying about your possessions while you’re travelling. By taking a few extra steps to protect your valuables you’ll save money and avoid stress.

• Check that your travel insurance covers the area you’re travelling to and that it’s in place for the full duration of your trip.
• Let your insurance provider know if you’re planning to take part in any adventure activities as these may not be covered in your policy.
• Tell your insurance provider about any pre-existing medical conditions as these may need to be covered with a higher premium.
• Read the travel insurance documents carefully and take note of the inclusions and exclusions.
• Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance because accidents happen and it’s important you and your family are covered for any unforeseen event.
• Make a copy of your important documents – such as travel insurance, air tickets and passport – and keep this copy separate from your travel documents in case you lose them.

Make memories this holiday season

Wherever you choose to travel this holiday season – whether it’s a road trip around New Zealand or an overseas break – a little preparation goes a long way towards keeping you and your family safe this holiday season.

For more information about house insurance or car insurance, get in touch with the team at Max Insurances, and let us help compare insurance NZ wide to find the right insurance for your needs and protect what matters most!

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What is car insurance excess?

Car insurance excess is the amount you are required to contribute towards the cost of a claim. It’s designed to keep insurance affordable for everyone by encouraging people to be responsible with their possessions and avoid claiming for events that they could pay for themselves. By paying car insurance excess, you help keep the cost of your car insurance premiums down.

When you make a claim, your car insurance excess is paid to the supplier or repairer (or to your insurance provider in the event of total loss) and your insurance provider pays the balance of the cost under the terms of your car insurance policy.

The different types of car insurance excess include:

• Basic or standard excess – a standard excess amount applied to any claim
• Voluntary excess – an amount you choose to pay which may be higher than the standard excess in order to lower your monthly or annual car insurance premiums
• Imposed excess – a higher excess set by the insurance provider due to a higher perceived risk, for example for a vehicle that is targeted by thieves
• Age and licence related excess – for example, an additional age-related excess for drivers under 25

A higher excess could save you money

Choosing to pay a higher excess could help reduce your monthly or annual car insurance premiums. That means you’ll pay more when you do make a claim, but will save money by paying less each month or year for your car insurance cover. Before choosing to pay a higher excess, it’s important you’re confident that you can afford to pay the higher amount in the event of a claim.

Excess may be waived or reimbursed

Most insurance policies include an excess for claims of insurable events. However, there are some instances where you’re not required to pay car insurance excess – as in the case of windscreen replacement in some comprehensive car insurance policies. Furthermore, in some instances your excess may be waived or reimbursed.

If you are involved in an accident and make a claim, provided you can identify the driver who caused the accident and they’ve admitted fault, your insurance provider may waive the excess up front because they’re able to claim this back from the person who caused the accident. Or you may need to pay the excess and your insurance provider claims this back from the person at fault and then reimburses you.

Reimbursement of your excess will depend on a few things, including:

• Whether you know who the other driver is
• Whether they’ve admitted fault
• Whether there are witnesses
• Whether they have insurance or the ability to pay

If you’re unsure about the amount of excess you’re required to pay when making a claim or when excess is required, review your policy documents.

Excesses can vary on the same policy

Your car insurance policy will generally include a standard excess amount that you’ll pay if you make a claim for damages or loss of your vehicle. Your insurance provider may also charge additional excesses for things that are deemed riskier, and this amount will need to be paid in addition to the standard excess amount.

For younger drivers under 25, an additional excess is usually charged to cover the higher risk of an inexperienced driver. This type of excess can be a cumulative amount based on the age of the younger driver, the number of years they’ve held their licence and the type of licence, as well as whether or not the person is named as a driver on the car insurance policy.

Understanding car insurance

There’s a lot to think about when getting car insurance cover, and finding the right car insurance cover at the right price isn’t always easy. One way to save money on car insurance cover, is to work with an Insurance Adviser. At Max Insurances, we work with a panel of NZ insurance providers which means more choice for you when it comes to finding the right car insurance cover. We can work with you to research your car insurance options and help you find the best car insurance NZ wide to fit your needs.

Contact Max Insurances today for a free, no-obligation quote.

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1. Not covered for your claim

If your insurer has denied your car insurance claim, it may be because your insurance doesn’t cover what you’re claiming for. In New Zealand, there are three types of car insurance and each type varies in what it covers.

Third party car insurance covers your legal liability if you cause an accident while driving and damage someone else’s car or property, but it doesn’t cover any damage to your own car. Third party, fire and theft is similar to third party but also includes cover for your car in the event of loss or damage by fire or theft. Comprehensive car insurance means you’re fully protected, and any accidental damage to your own car and any others, as well as loss through fire or theft, is covered.

Before claiming, check that your insurance policy covers your claim. Or talk to an Insurance Adviser about the right type of car insurance cover for your situation, so that you’re not paying more than you need to or less than you should for your car insurance.

2. Vehicle not roadworthy

Driving a car that isn’t roadworthy or is unsafe to drive could mean your car insurance claim is denied in an accident. Worn tyres, damaged brakes, or a cracked windscreen are all reasons your car might not pass WOF and, as such, would not be roadworthy. To avoid having your car insurance claim denied because your car is not roadworthy, maintain your car through regular servicing and WOF, fit new tyres and have brakes replaced when needed.

If you need cash in a hurry to complete urgent repairs to your car to ensure it is fit to drive, talk to a Personal Lending Adviser at Max Loans about an emergency loan to cover these costs.

3. Drugs or alcohol-impaired

Drink driving and drug driving are illegal in New Zealand and any claim resulting from an accident when under the influence will be denied. In most instances, if you are involved in an accident and police attend the scene, you will likely be breath-tested and the results will need to be reported to your insurer.

4. Personal vehicle for business use

If your car is insured for personal use only, and you use it for commercial purposes on a regular basis – doing deliveries or driving for Uber – there’s a good chance your claim will be denied if you are involved in an accident. Instead, be up front with your insurer and let them know if you are planning to use your car for business purposes so that you’re covered for both personal and business use.

5. Non-compliance of licence conditions

Driving without a driver’s licence or with an invalid licence is one of the most common reasons why car insurance claims are denied. No licence means no insurance cover so don’t let anyone without a licence drive your car. And those on a restricted licence must adhere to the conditions of this type of licence – no driving between 10pm and 5am, and no passengers (unless you have a supervisor with you).

6. Not taking enough care

Having car insurance cover doesn’t mean you can take chances when driving, and at all times, you must take reasonable care. Just like drink or drug driving is illegal, so too is not sticking to speed limits and disobeying road rules. Any claim for damage might be denied by the insurer if it’s determined that reckless driving was the cause of an accident.

7. Not telling the insurer something important

All information that is pertinent to your situation or the car being insured must be disclosed to the insurer – both initially when you apply for car insurance and at each renewal of the policy. That includes things like convictions, driving infringements, or vehicle modifications – anything that could have an impact on your claim.

Not disclosing important information that the insurer needs to know could result in your claim being denied. Ask questions, read policy documents, and make sure you understand the exclusions and limitations of your car insurance.

Get insurance help from Max Insurances

We know it can be hard finding the right car insurance cover, with so many options and insurers to choose from. That’s why the team at Max Insurances works closely with customers to understand their insurance needs and provide an insurance solution to fit. With access to a variety of insurance providers, we’re committed to helping our clients make informed choices about their car insurance. Get in touch if you’d like help finding the right car insurance NZ wide.

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Is your car insurance or house insurance due for renewal soon? Read on to find out what you need to know.

How do I know when to renew my insurance policy?

When you set up an insurance policy, your insurance provider agrees to provide cover for house insurance or car insurance for a one year term. At the end of that term, insurance providers recalculate the cost of the insurance premium and make any changes to the insurance cover that are required. But before your insurance policy renews, you have a chance to review your policy and let your insurance provider know about any changes to your circumstances that could impact your insurance. Those changes are then applied to your insurance policy for the year ahead.

Most insurance providers send out a notification at insurance renewal time – either a letter in the post or an email – confirming your new policy details along with any changes to your premium. It’s important you carefully review these and contact your insurance provider or Insurance Adviser if you’re unsure about anything or would like to make any further changes.

What do I do at policy renewal time?

When your insurance provider lets you know that your car insurance or house insurance is due for renewal, here are some questions to ask yourself:

• Are there any changes my insurance provider needs to know about?
  Check that all details in your insurance policy are correct and up to date. If your circumstances have changed and the changes may impact your insurance cover, let your insurance company know about these. For example, if you have recently completed a home renovation project, check that your sum insured is still sufficient to cover the costs to rebuild your house. Or, if you have made certain modifications to your car that could affect its value, let your car insurance provider know about these.
• Do I have the right level of cover?
  Check the inclusions and exclusions listed in your policy document so you know what’s covered. Let your insurance provider know about any extra inclusions or things you want to remove from your policy. For example, if someone new is driving your car, or you’re using your home for business, these changes could impact your insurance policy and cover.
• Has the premium gone up or down?
  There are a few reasons why an insurance premium can increase or decrease. For example, if you made a claim during the year before, or you installed a new alarm system in your home, your insurance premiums may be affected.

If you’re unsure about the impact that changes to your circumstances may have on your insurance premium or cover, get in touch with the team at Max Insurances to go over your insurance policy with you and ensure you have the right level of cover to fit your needs.

Can I save money by switching insurance providers?

Insurance renewal time is not only a time for reviewing your existing insurance policies and ensuring they’re fit for purpose. It’s also a good time to assess how your existing insurance compares to others in the market. But it’s important not to focus on price alone. Here are some of the other things to look out for when comparing insurance quotes:

• Level of cover. Even if all policies are on the same tier – for example, comprehensive car insurance – the level of cover may differ between providers.
• Payment schedule. Some insurers offer a fortnightly or monthly payment option instead of an up-front annual payment, making budgeting easier. Others offer a discount for an annual payment.
• Service offerings. Being able to manage your policy online or use an online claims process could be a deal-breaker, making the insurance process much simpler.
• Discounts. Some insurance providers offer a discount if you already have another form of insurance cover with them.

If you do go ahead and switch providers, remember not to cancel your existing insurance until you have your new cover in place.

Get help at insurance renewal time

When it comes to choosing the right insurance cover, there are many factors to consider. If you’re unsure what to look out for, get in touch with an Insurance Adviser from Max Insurances. Our team of experienced advisers specialise in helping Kiwis arrange insurance NZ wide, and can help you compare policies and premium quotes to help you choose the right insurance, with inclusions and features that best meet your needs.

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Prepare your car

Ensure your car is road worthy ahead of your trip. A quick maintenance check at your local garage (or DIY if you know how) to check if tyre pressure and tread levels are correct, oil and fluid levels are topped up, and wiper blades, lights and indicators are in good working condition. Fill up with gas and know how far you can travel until you need to fill up again.

A regular car service will mean most of these are already done and you can head off on your holiday knowing your car is in road worthy condition. But if your car hasn’t been serviced in a while, spending money on a service before you set off on a road trip could help you avoid a major repair while you’re on holiday. If you need to plan ahead for a car service or vehicle repair but don’t have the cash saved up yet, consider an emergency loan through Max Loans to help cover the cost.

Pack smart

Nothing spells freedom quite like a road trip. You’re in control of your time, the pace you set, and where you go. It’s the ultimate in Kiwi family holidays. But just as your car needs to be prepared for a road trip, so too do you. Here are some tips for packing smart and preparing yourself for a road trip:

• Along with getting a good night’s sleep before you drive, let someone know where you’ll be going.
• Pack your mobile phone and charger, and check you have mobile coverage in case of emergencies.
• Wear comfortable clothing and footwear ideal for long spells in the car.
• Check the weather forecast for weather warnings and familiarise yourself with the route.
• Remember to pack prescription medications for family and pets.
• Don’t forget your sunglasses!
• Keep an emergency first aid kit in the car in case of minor incidents.

Here are a few other things you may like to pack:

• Water and snacks
• Blankets and pillows
• A basic tool kit and jumper cables
• Waterproof matches
• Toilet roll

Check your insurance

Long road trips mean more wear and tear on your car. And with so many Kiwis staying home this year, roads are likely to be even busier than usual. All of which means things can go wrong: cars can break down; tyres need replacing; major repairs need to be done; and accidents can happen. Make sure you have the right insurance cover to protect you and loved ones, and your car, caravan or motorhome while you’re on the road.

If you haven’t reviewed your car insurance in a while, now is a good time to do it. Book in an insurance review with a Max Insurances Adviser to check you’re not paying too much for the insurance cover you need.

Safe driving

Now that you’re ready to head off on your summer road trip, be sure to keep yourself and others safe on the road by staying alert and being aware of what’s going on around you. Scan the road ahead for hazards and look out for dangerous drivers. Avoid pulling over onto the side of the road unless it’s safe to do so, and then have your emergency lights turned on. Take regular breaks – get out and stretch your legs, have a coffee or something to eat to avoid falling asleep at the wheel. Listen to music or roll down your window for fresh air if you feel your concentration waning. Never leave children or pets unattended in a parked car, especially in hot weather. Safe travels!

Getting you on the road again

When it comes to finding the right insurance cover, it can be hard knowing which one is best. With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to end up paying too much or too little for the insurance cover you need. At Max Insurances, we understand the importance of putting your needs first. Which is why we’ll help you choose from a wide variety of insurance providers, and share our industry knowledge of insurance products to make it easy for you to decide. Get in touch with one of our experienced Insurance Advisers today and let us help you compare insurance NZ wide to find the insurance solution that’s right for you!

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The post Summer Road Trip Coming Up? Stay Safe With These Tips appeared first on Max Insurances.

Having a dash cam installed in your car – recording continuous footage of the road ahead while you’re travelling and even keeping track of the date, time, speed, G-force and GPS co-ordinates, as well as in-car behaviour – can be especially useful in proving your innocence. If you’re considering installing a dash cam in your car, here’s all you need to know.

What is a dash cam? And is it legal in New Zealand?

A dash cam is a camera typically mounted on your vehicle’s dashboard or windscreen that is designed to carefully and accurately record every detail that takes place on the road. The dash cam starts recording automatically when the car is turned on, and records on a continuous loop. There are several reasons why drivers may consider installing a dash cam – using as evidence in an accident, helping identify dangerous driving behaviour, and providing peace of mind knowing that the driver can be tracked by GPS are just a few of the reasons drivers choose to install a dash cam.

While dash cams are legal in New Zealand, dash cam footage could be covered by the Privacy Act. Dash cams capture images of travel and vehicles in public places, but don’t typically capture clear images of other drivers, certainly not images that can be easily identified. However, dash cams capture car number plates and other background footage, which could be made up of personal information as covered by the Privacy Act.  If you are using a dash cam for personal use, it’s important you familiarise yourself with the Privacy Act and in particular with the impact of sharing dash cam footage online.

Can a dash cam lower my insurance premium?

Although dash cams are certainly proving popular amongst Kiwis, and many insurance companies agree the information they provide is invaluable in helping settle a dispute, here in New Zealand, most car insurance companies don’t offer any discount to vehicle owners who have installed a dash cam. But dash cams prove their worth when it comes to a claim and having to provide evidence of your innocence or someone else’s liability. And that could help you avoid an increase in your insurance premium.

Ultimately, the best way to save money on insurance premiums is to work with an Insurance Adviser, like those at Max Insurances. When it comes to car insurance, finding the right cover is made simpler when you work with an Insurance Adviser who has access to a wide variety of insurance providers and can help you explore your options and make an informed decision. Get a free, no-obligation car insurance quote.

How can a dash cam support my insurance claim?

Unfortunately, accidents happen all too often and in many of these situations dash cam footage has been useful in providing evidence when it comes to making an insurance claim:

• In an accident where both drivers claim to be the innocent party.
• When a parked car is damaged and no note is left or there are no witnesses.
• When there is a fraudulent claim, such as a driver staging a claimable event.

Getting help when you need it most

If you’ve been impacted by a car accident, and you find yourself on the receiving end of a financial upset, talk to our Personal Lending Team at Max Loans about an emergency loan to help you cover unexpected expenses. If your vehicle is beyond repair, our Personal Lending Team can help you with options for pre-approved car finance. And if you’d like to know more about how Max Loans can help you get a competitive car loan, here’s an article you may find useful.

At Max Insurances, we understand that the insurance claim process can be both stressful and confusing. That’s why when you work with our team of Insurance Advisers, we’re there at claim time too if you need us.

Get in touch with us today to talk about your car insurance needs and let us help you compare insurance NZ wide to find the best deal!

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The post Does Installing A Dash Cam Affect My Car Insurance? appeared first on Max Insurances.