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"All Terrain (SUV and 4x4)
Vehicle Insurance"
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All Terrain (SUV and 4x4) Vehicle Insurance
The popularity of 4x4’s, otherwise
known as SUV’s, is ever increasing despite the rise in fuel prices and
environmental cries to cut CO2 emissions. Diesel SUV’s and hybrid SUV’s attract
a lot of consumer interest for these reasons.
For many 4x4 drivers the disadvantages of owning and driving a gas guzzler are
outweighed by the perceived advantages of having copious amounts of interior
space and a high driving position, which gives a clearer view of the road
ahead.
Add to this the safety perspective of being in a vehicle larger and heavier
than most others on the road. Odds are on that, in an accident, driver and
passengers in these vehicles are likely to come out in better shape than their
not so fortunate counterparts as people in 4x4’s tend to be much better
protected.
Buyers are still spoilt for choice with practically all manufacturers producing
their own version. Japanese makes, such as Honda, Nissan and Toyota SUV’s are a
popular choice.
For the most part, insurance companies view 4x4’s as standard vehicles with
regard to insurance cover and associated risks. This is mainly because the
percentage of these vehicles actually driven off-road is very low.
However, big, pricey, solid cars come with similar premiums attached. This
tends to elevate 4x4’s into the higher insurance premium bracket.
For those who do use their 4x4 for off-road purposes, caution dictates getting
a few quotes for off-road use and considering taking up this type of cover or
some form of recreational vehicle insurance. Better safe than sorry if the
insurance status of your car is called into question by insurers should an
incident occur off the beaten track of a public highway.