7 Ways Car Insurance Protects You Beyond Just Accidents

It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking Car Insurance is only about accident repairs. But in South Africa, your vehicle faces risks even when it’s parked at home. Theft and hijacking still top the list. But a sudden storm, power outages, and even wildlife are unexpected risks to stationary cars.

Auto&General's Car Insurance prepares you for more than fender-benders. Below, we look at common off-road risks and the ways Vehicle Insurance keeps you protected even when you're not driving.

Common risks to your car — on and off the road

Wondering what Car Insurance covers when the car isn’t even moving? Here’s what you’re most likely to face and how the right policy helps.

Hijacking and theft are always a threat

According to SAPS’ fourth-quarter crime statistics (January to March 2025) 1, South Africa recorded:

• 4,533 carjackings

• 7,731 cases of motor and motorcycle vehicle theft

• 19,032 incidents of possession in or damage to motor vehicles

The last figure highlights a frustration: not only stolen belongings but also repair costs from smashed windows, damaged locks, or broken panels.

Comprehensive Insurance from Auto&General protects against all these risks, while Third-party, Fire and Theft Insurance limits cover hijacking or outright theft.

Weather havoc

Severe storms, flooding, hail, and even small tornadoes 2 have damaged thousands of homes and vehicles in 2025 across South Africa. If heavy rain floods your driveway or a wall collapses onto your parked car, repair expenses are usually covered under Comprehensive Vehicle Insurance. Hail damage is often treated as an optional add-on benefit, so check the fine print.

Vandalism and damage from mischief

Vandalism includes keying, broken mirrors, or smashed side windows. Malicious damage to vehicles often happens in shopping centre parking lots and on quiet streets. It’s not an “accident,” but it can still be covered under comprehensive policies.

Fire risks

Veld fires, garage fires, or electrical faults can damage or destroy a stationary vehicle. Even if your car is older and Comprehensive Car Insurance doesn’t feel worthwhile, Third Party, Fire and Theft Insurance can still protect you against the cost of fire damage.

Power outages and opportunistic crimes

Power outages strike at inconvenient times. If your garage door motor isn’t working, you may have to leave your car outside overnight. Add darkened streets, and the chance of opportunistic crime rises. With Comprehensive or Third-party Fire and Theft Insurance, you're still protected if your car is stolen.

Wildlife and pest damage

An aggressive dog can chew a bumper, and rodents may gnaw wiring under the bonnet unseen, causing electrical faults. Comprehensive Insurance often covers accidental animal damage. Pest-related incidents may be treated differently, so always check how your policy applies.

If you’re unsure whether a non-accident scenario is covered, check your schedule and ask your insurer before you need to claim.

7 Ways Car Insurance protects you beyond accidents

Beyond the basics of accident cover, your policy includes specific protections that you might have overlooked. Here’s how Car Insurance in South Africa helps in situations you might not expect.

1. Recovering after theft or hijacking

You park your car for a quick shopping run and never see it again. With the right cover, your insurer manages the claim process and compensates you according to your policy. You can keep your life on track while the case is investigated.

2. Cover for storm and flood damage

Hail dents, wind-thrown debris, or flood damage to a stationary car are typically comprehensive claims. So, if a cloudburst floods your street and the inside of your car, your comprehensive policy will cover approved repairs and drying.

 3. Fire damage to your parked car

A garage fire, veld fire, or even stray embers can destroy a car’s bodywork and interior. Comprehensive and Third-party, Fire and Theft Insurance covers these losses even when the engine isn’t running. So, if a neighbour’s braai sparks a tree fire that spreads to your property, repairs are covered without derailing your budget.

4. Liability cover for others

 Third-party liability applies when your vehicle causes injury or damage to someone else’s property. Even with Third-party Only Insurance, you’re still covered for these claims. Just not for accidental damage to your own car.

5. Roadside support

From a flat battery at home to a burst tyre on the way to work, roadside assistance gets you moving again. This benefit is included with comprehensive and third-party policies.

6. Fixing windscreens and glass without hassle

Chips, cracks, and smashed side windows are common off-road losses. Windscreen and Glass Cover can enable you to quickly repair or replace the damage parts. It’s included with Comprehensive Insurance and available as an optional add-on for Third Party, Fire, and Theft Insurance.

 7. Keeping you moving with rental or transport cover

If your car’s stolen or in for repairs after an insured event, car rental or alternative transport benefits can keep school runs and work commutes on schedule.

Always remember that benefits and limits vary by product and underwriting, so check your policy wording and schedule for specifics.

FAQs – What does Car Insurance cover?

• Does Car Insurance cover theft and hijacking in South Africa?

Yes. With Auto&General’s Comprehensive Insurance, theft and hijacking are covered events, subject to excess and limits. Reporting the incident immediately and cooperating with recovery efforts helps speed things up.

• Will my insurance pay for damage caused by potholes or poor road conditions?

Damage from potholes usually falls under accidental damage. Comprehensive Car Insurance in South Africa typically covers suspension and body damage. Tyre or rim damage usually depends on the optional Tyre & Rim Cover.

• Does Car Insurance cover natural disasters like hail, floods, or fire?

Comprehensive policies generally include weather and fire cover, both on and off the road. Storm damage to a parked car would be included, but hail dents might only be covered through an optional add-on. Speak to your insurer.

• Am I covered if someone else drives my car?

If they’re a permitted or named driver on your policy and properly licensed, cover applies under your policy terms. If someone regularly drives your car, list them to avoid claim issues.

• Will Car Insurance in South Africa pay for a rental car if mine is stolen or being repaired?

Only if this benefit is offered by your insurer or is included in your policy.

Get an Auto&General Insurance quote today!

 Protect your vehicle beyond just accidents. Get a personalised Auto&General Insurance quote today. Our team can explain comprehensive, third-party options, glass cover, roadside help, and rental benefits. Choose the right cover with confidence.