As summer temperatures rise, motorists are being urged to include fire protection in their car insurance due to the increased risk of vehicles catching fire. This advisory comes amidst warnings from authorities about the dangers posed by high temperatures.
Importance of Comprehensive Car Insurance
While all car owners are required to have vehicle insurance, the most common and cheapest option is third-party liability (TPL) coverage. TPL covers damages to the vehicle of the third party and their medical bills if injuries are sustained. However, TPL does not cover damages caused by natural disasters or non-traffic related events such as floods or vehicle fires.
Neeraj Gupta, CEO of Policybazaar.ae, emphasized the importance of comprehensive car insurance. “Only a comprehensive car insurance plan can provide full coverage to both the insured and the third party in case of an accident. Almost everything is covered by a comprehensive car insurance policy, including theft, complete loss of the vehicle, fire, natural disasters, and vandalism. There are also add-on services like engine cover, accessories cover, etc.,” he said.
Gupta highlighted that while comprehensive coverage requires an additional cost, typically between Dh700 to Dh800 for a sedan or SUV, it offers peace of mind by protecting the car in all scenarios. “The upgrade from TPL to comprehensive insurance is worth adding to your insurance policy if you’re looking to protect your car in all scenarios,” he added.
Increased Risk of Vehicle Fires
Earlier this week, Dubai Police took to social media platform X to warn motorists about the increased risk of vehicle fires during the summer. High temperatures can cause everyday items like perfumes and mobile phone chargers to ignite. Authorities also warned against leaving flammable items such as e-cigarettes, lighters, perfumes, sanitation sprays, and power banks inside vehicles.
Motorists were reminded to service their cars regularly. Dubai Police are offering free car inspection services until the end of August, encouraging drivers to take advantage of this opportunity.
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Preventive Measures
Road safety experts advised motorists to check their vehicles for damaged or loose wiring to prevent fire accidents. They should also monitor rapid changes in fuel or oil levels and engine temperature. If they smell burning rubber or metal or see smoke coming from the engine or brakes, they should pull over and check the car.
Motorists should be cautious of fuses that blow more than once, indicating faulty electrical wiring, and loud noises from the exhaust system. Additionally, they should look for any spilled oil after an oil change, a missing oil cap, or one that doesn’t fit properly. Replacing worn-out or loose hoses immediately is also crucial.
Vehicle Fires: A ‘Burning Issue’
According to RoadSafety UAE, vehicle fires are a significant concern in the UAE, particularly during the hot summer months. The group noted that 75% of vehicle fires are caused by poor maintenance, mechanical or electrical failures, or malfunctions. Collisions or overturns accounted for only 3% of vehicle fires but 57% of associated deaths. One-third of non-fatal vehicle fire injuries occurred when civilians attempted to fight the fire themselves.
Lessons from Flooding
Following unprecedented heavy rains in mid-April, UAE insurance companies increased premiums by up to 30% since May 1. Many motorists realized that cars with only TPL were not covered for flood damage. This led to a 100% increase in demand for comprehensive insurance as more car owners opted for the costlier but wide-ranging premium to cover various damages.
Gupta reiterated that, like protection against flooding, comprehensive insurance also shields motorists against vehicle fire-related incidents.
With summer temperatures rising, the importance of comprehensive car insurance cannot be overstated. Motorists are encouraged to upgrade their policies to ensure full protection against the increased risk of vehicle fires and other potential hazards.
