Fender-benders and rear-enders: here’s what Aussies are claiming on their car insurance

Australia: A nation of tactless tailgaters, poor parkers and rugged adventurists - that sums up the story of Aussie driving habits after data from insurer Allianz revealed the top car insurance claims in each state.

Motor claims data from the last three years revealed that about one in seven Aussies need to call upon their car insurance policy each year to make a claim but the top reasons for doing so differed depending on where you live.

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Victoria & New South Wales

Motorists from Australia’s two south-eastern states have developed the unhealthy habit of tailgating their fellow road users.

23% of Victorian car insurance claims involved being hit in the rear and, while slightly better, it was also the top claim just north of the border where one in five motorists lodged a claim after being involved in a tailgating accident.

Allianz Australia’s General Manager for Motor Insurance, Leanne Hendy says that the data reinforced the need to maintain a safe distance between you and the car ahead, when driving.

“This is especially true in heavy traffic when motorists may be tempted to drive too closely to the car in front of them,” said Hendy.

South Australia

Apparently our friends from the south have a particular proclivity for making errors when it comes to parking their wheels.

South Australians reported damage done to their vehicle while it was parked or while reversing more than any other type of on-the-road incident, accounting for 19% and 18% of total claims, respectively.

Queensland & Western Australia

Neither notorious tailgaters or amateurs in the carpark, Queensland and Western Australian motorists are just downright unlucky if the data is anything to go by.

The top claim made in these two states was for glass damage, which Hendy believes is a consequence of the open roads.

“The outback roads are more prone to loose gravel or debris, which can fly up into a vehicle’s windshield and cause chips and cracks,” she said.

“Most airborne rocks or gravel come from the vehicle in front, however, so it’s important that drivers stay a safe distance between them, especially if they notice spinning up rocks.”

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With a host of Aussies set to pack their cars full of holiday essentials and get on the road throughout December and January, Mozo Director Kirsty Lamont says that the need to make sure their trusty source of transport is adequately covered has never been greater.

“During the festive period a lot of Aussie families and couples like to get out of the city and travel and with more congestion on the roads you’re more likely to be involved in a bingle,” she said.

“To put your mind at ease, make sure that your current car insurance policy is the best option of coverage for you. For example if you’re heading off-road for a family camping trip over Christmas, glass cover as standard will protect your windscreen against any rogue rocks.”

To compare a range of car insurance policies head to Mozo’s car insurance comparison tables or check out a host of our more popular policies right here!