Which Anti-Theft Devices Decrease Insurance Premiums
One good way to get discounts from your car insurance premiums is by outfitting your car with the appropriate anti-theft device. Car insurance companies allow discounts to policies offered to car owners who have anti-theft devices installed in their vehicles. When you are shopping for a car insurance policy, it is important that you ask your insurer of the applicable discounts that they offer for specific anti-theft devices that are installed on the insured vehicles.
There are three main types of anti-theft devices available in the market today. These are the mechanical immobilizers, the car security alarm systems and the electronic tracking and immobilizing device. It is important that you have clear understanding of the operating principles of these 3 types of security devices.
The mechanical immobilizers are the popular latches that restrict the movement of the steering wheel. This mechanical immobilizer will prevent car thieves from driving off with your car as they cannot gain control of the steering wheel. Many car owners take this as a practical alternative to the high priced electronic alarm systems. There are also other lock bars which can be used on the brake pedals, the wheels and the gear stick shifters. The inherent strength of these sturdy lock bars is that they are effective deterrent to potential theft as ordinary thieves easily get discouraged by the mere sight of these immobilizers outfitted in the car. Nonetheless, police officials strongly recommend that these mechanical locks be used as part of a more complex anti-theft and security system for your car.
If you prefer the modern gadgetry for the security system for your car, then you have to make your choice from the devices that fall under the major category of security alarm systems. These electronic gadgets are generally motion-activated alarm systems. The system produces a deafening alarm in case of forcible entry, sudden movements and nudges and perimeter breaks. The alarm serves as a deterrent for potential theft as it is easily activated under the previously listed threat scenarios.
On the other hand, the third type of car security devices provides security by reporting the location of the vehicle by triangulation. These electronic devices operate through a car tracking system that relays the exact location of the car to the car owner. It also comes with a feature to identify the car using a tamper-proof VIN etching ID process. Some models of this car tracking system are also capable of electronically disabling the vehicle by isolating the power system in the event that it is driven off by car thieves.
The last thing that you must do when you are considering the appropriate car insurance is to ask and confirm the discounts being offered by the car insurance companies for vehicles outfitted with security systems and anti-theft devices. You have to confirm with your insurance agent or the insurance companies which anti-theft devices qualify for a discount on premiums. If you are making online searches, make sure that you provide a complete description of the anti-theft device that is installed in the car being insured.
Graham McKenzie is the content syndication coordinator for Carinsurancesa.co.za. South Arica?s leading Car Insurance portal.