Approximately 65 percent of South African drivers do not have auto insurance cover. That is an alarming statistics for the 35 percent of those who do. So, what is keeping that 65 percent from making the responsible decision and purchasing at least the minimum cover?

Lets start with an overview of the insurance types. In South Africa, auto insurance cover has three basic forms.

The minimum cover is Third Party. This covers your liability (costs) if you damage someone elses personal property in an car accident. This includes other cars or structural property that may also be damaged.

You also have the option of buying Third Party Fire and Theft which would cover incase of any damage to your vehicle by fire, theft or attempted theft.

Comprehensive cover is the one that is recommended for most South Africans. It has in it, Third Party Fire and Theft and also covers damage to your own vehicle in an accident that is deemed your fault. There is also an additional coverage in it which covers when you are driving someone else's car.

Other vehicle insurance options are designed to meet the needs of drivers operating in the unique South African driving environments. These include motorcycle cover, off-road comprehensive cover, and caravan cover.

South Africa is often a world leader in traffic injuries and fatalities and the roads are becoming increasingly dangerous. Car theft and hijackings are also all too common. Because South Africa is a high risk insurance environment, premiums can be high. But you can take some steps to lower your premiums.

Begin by looking around and comparing quotes. It is much easier to research your many options via web. You could also possibly get discounts if you purchase your policy via the web if the company you want to work with enables this.

Drive safe and save on your premiums. Claim-free years should earn you rewards from your carrier. If not, scout for companies that would offer value rates to you.

During the purchase of insurance, you should check the maximum amount that you are going to paid if claimed. If this excess amount is high, then premium will also be high. Selection of maximum amount depends on you. It gives you benefit on long run, if you can afford higher excess amount.

If you own an expensive or high performance vehicle, you will pay more for your premiums. These cars cost more to insure because they are considered a higher risk and are expensive to replace or repair. So when you car shop, keep in mind that your insurance premiums will add to the cost of owning the vehicle you choose.

Because most insurance companies often have minimum security requirements for vehicles that they secure, exceeding the minimums by adding security devices can result in a discounted premium.

Living in high crime areas leaves you at risk for a car theft or high jacking. Considering a possible relocation could bring your premiums down a substantial amount.Parking your car in a safer enviroment such as a locked garage or behind locked gates could also give you a discount.

Don't be afraid to negoiate a deal with your insurance company, because they are very interested in keeping your business and willing to work out a deal with you.