Caravan Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Car Collector Fails in Bid for $122k Insurance Windfall

Car Collector Fails in Bid for $122k Insurance Windfall

Car Collector Fails in Bid for $122k Insurance Windfall?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

A car enthusiast's efforts to boost his insurance payout from $78,000 to $200,000 after his rare vehicle was destroyed by fire have been thwarted.

The dispute began when the owner's 2005 HSV Coupe GTO Z Series succumbed to flames in March of the previous year. RACQ Insurance accepted the total loss and initially valued the vehicle at $68,000.

However, the unsatisfied owner declined this offer, leading to an independent valuation which described the car as being in “good condition for its age and mileage” despite its 315,000km on the odometer.

Although comparable lower-mileage vehicles were advertised above $81,000, the heavy usage severely reduced its collectible appeal, the independent valuer noted. Conclusively, the evaluator deemed the insurer's offer reasonable.

The car owner contested this, alleging RACQ Insurance's assessment was flawed, particularly regarding the engine type and the car's rarity as one of only 60 manual transmission models, asserting its condition was excellent.

In response, RACQ revised their offer to $78,000 factoring in the vehicle's unique modifications and reconditioned engine, but the claimant stood firm in his refusal.

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), upon review, sided with the insurer. AFCA deemed RACQ Insurance's valuation and the independent assessment to be “logical, well-considered and helpful.”

According to Glass's Guide referenced by the AFCA, the vehicle's maximum estimated market value could not exceed $58,100, considering its age and mileage. Although rare, evidence was insufficient to justify a $200,000 evaluation.

The AFCA stated, “The complainant has not provided persuasive evidence to demonstrate the vehicle's worth is beyond what the insurer offered. Under such conditions, adjusting the settlement upward would not be justifiable.”

Reference: Original findings from the Australian Financial Complaints Authority's ruling were sourced from RACQ Insurance's appeal letter. Read more about the decision here.

Published:Wednesday, 24th Jul 2024
Author: Paige Estritori
Sources

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Budget Direct Achieves Top Honors as Australia's Insurer of the Year
Budget Direct Achieves Top Honors as Australia's Insurer of the Year
21 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
Budget Direct has been honored with the inaugural 'Insurer of the Year' title at the 2026 Finder Provider of the Year Awards, solidifying its position as a leading choice for Australians seeking exceptional insurance coverage. This recognition is accompanied by four additional category wins, making Budget Direct the most awarded provider in this year's ceremony. - read more
Australian Insurers Advocate for Legislation Against Unfair Claims Practices
Australian Insurers Advocate for Legislation Against Unfair Claims Practices
21 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has expressed strong support for the proposed Competition and Consumer Amendment (Unfair Trading Practices) Bill 2026, which aims to establish a general prohibition on unfair trading practices within Australian Consumer Law. This legislation is designed to empower regulators to take decisive action against predatory operators, particularly within the claims management sector. - read more
Significant Rise in Private Health Insurance Premiums Set for April 2026
Significant Rise in Private Health Insurance Premiums Set for April 2026
21 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
Australians are bracing for a substantial increase in private health insurance premiums, with an average rise of 4.41% scheduled to take effect from April 1, 2026. This marks the most significant hike since 2017 and is expected to place additional financial pressure on households already contending with the rising cost of living. - read more
Insurance Council Declares Significant Events for Northern Territory and Queensland Floods
Insurance Council Declares Significant Events for Northern Territory and Queensland Floods
21 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has declared Significant Events in response to the severe flooding that has recently impacted communities in the Northern Territory and Queensland. This declaration aims to expedite the insurance industry's response and provide necessary support to affected residents. - read more
Insurance Australia Group Enhances 2026 Outlook Following RACQ Insurance Acquisition
Insurance Australia Group Enhances 2026 Outlook Following RACQ Insurance Acquisition
21 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has revised its fiscal 2026 outlook upwards, following the successful acquisition of the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland's (RACQ) insurance arm. This strategic move is set to bolster IAG's presence in the Queensland market and drive substantial growth in the coming year. - read more


Caravan Insurance Articles

Mastering Weight Distribution for a Smooth, Safe Caravan Journey
Mastering Weight Distribution for a Smooth, Safe Caravan Journey
When embarking on journeys with a caravan in tow, understanding the concept of weight distribution is critical. This refers to how the weight of your load is spread both within the caravan and between the caravan and the towing vehicle. Ensuring this weight is evenly distributed is not just a matter of organization; it's a fundamental aspect of safe and smooth travel. - read more
Top 5 Things to Look for When Choosing Caravan Insurance
Top 5 Things to Look for When Choosing Caravan Insurance
Caravan insurance is an important investment for anyone who owns a caravan, whether it's a touring caravan or a static caravan. Caravan insurance is designed to protect you financially in the event of theft, damage, or accidents. However, not all caravan insurance policies are created equal, and it's essential to choose the right policy to ensure you're adequately covered and get the best value for your money. - read more
Why You Should Use a Specialist Caravan Insurance Broker Instead of Going Direct
Why You Should Use a Specialist Caravan Insurance Broker Instead of Going Direct
Caravan insurance is an important investment for anyone who owns a caravan. It provides financial protection against loss, damage, or theft of your caravan. While it's possible to purchase caravan insurance directly from an insurer, in this article, we explore why you should use a specialist caravan insurance broker instead of going direct - and how to choose the right one for your needs. - read more
The Hidden Factors That Influence Your Caravan Insurance Costs
The Hidden Factors That Influence Your Caravan Insurance Costs
Caravan insurance is a vital safeguard that protects your valuable investment from unforeseen incidents, whether at home or on the road. Understanding the dynamics of caravan insurance pricing is crucial for any caravan owner in Australia looking to get the most value from their policy while ensuring adequate coverage. - read more
Why You Should Shop Around: The Benefits of Caravan Insurance Comparison
Why You Should Shop Around: The Benefits of Caravan Insurance Comparison
When it comes to enjoying the great outdoors, few things offer the freedom and flexibility of a caravan. Whether you're embarking on a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, ensuring that your mobile home is properly insured is a critical consideration. Caravan insurance provides financial protection against a range of potential risks, from theft and accidents to natural disasters, ensuring peace of mind as you explore Australia's breathtaking landscapes. - read more


Your free Caravan insurance quote comparison starts here!
First Name:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.


Knowledgebase
Insurance Underwriter:
An insurance company, a financial institution that sells insurance.