Top Causes of Motor Insurance Claims

by Andrew Kelliher | 1 min read    January 7th, 2019
 

Here at Allianz, our Motor Claims teams handle lots of car insurance claims every day. From little tips, bigger bumps, fire and theft; our team is busy trying to resolve claims as quickly and fairly as we can.

Third Party Claims

44% of the motor claims we dealt with last year involved a third party. These claims come in all shapes and sizes, from fender benders to sadly much more serious accidents.

It is estimated that 90% of all road traffic accidents are caused by human error. So, by being a diligent and conscious driver we can reduce the number of third party claims. Being aware of what distracts you while driving is a great first step. Reducing these distractions in the car could help you avoid an accident. Have you picked up any bad habits over the years? Lots of us have; Are you guilty of speeding or not using your indicators? Maybe you don’t obey the 2 second rule? Removing bad habits from your driving could also help reduce your risk of being involved in an accident.

Unfortunately, staged accidents are common place here in Ireland and are a contributor to the incidences of third party claims. Read our blog on staged accidents to learn more and what to look out for.

Windscreen Claims

43% of the claims we saw in 2017 related to windscreens. 78% of damage is related to stones. Slowing down on rocky, uneven surfaces and roads undergoing works can help to reduce the instances of windscreen damage. Unsurprisingly, 86% of the damage we see is to the front windscreen.

Own Damage Claims

Some 11% of claims are caused by ourselves, be it bumping into a pillar while parking in the shopping centre or scraping the door on the drive way gate pillar. Slowing down, effective observation, and use of mirrors can help us to avoid such incidents.

Fire & Theft Claims

Thankfully just 2% of claims we saw in 2017 related to fire and theft. However, these claims will almost always be large ones. More often than not when a car is stolen it is never recovered; and fire damage will in most instances result in the write off of a vehicle.

Parking your car in a safe location, ensuring it is locked, alarmed, and has an immobiliser will help to deter thieves but also reduce the risk of vandals setting it alight. Another cause of motor car fires is self combustion; regular services can help to identify any potential issues and ensuring windscreen areas are kept clear during very hot spells can reduce the risk of collision.

Information correct as of date of publishing. This blog will not be updated or edited so the information may become outdated.