Antique Car Claim Hits the Brakes: Home Insurance Does Not Cover Vehicle Damage

3

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.

The car owner had filed for the losses with his insurer, Allianz, under the impression that the stationary state of his classic automobile placed it outside the category of a motor vehicle, which would typically be excluded from home insurance coverage. The claim also included potential legal liabilities related to the damage inflicted upon the neighbor's property.

However, Allianz stood firm on the grounds of their policy, which explicitly excludes motor vehicles, setting the stage for AFCA’s involvement to help settle the matter. The authority consulted both dictionary and legal definitions during its adjudication to arrive at a conclusion.

The decision was crystal clear. Although the prized Mercedes was not road-ready, it was undeniably a car, designed for motor propulsion and fit for highway use. Conclusively, for all intents and purposes regarding the claim, the car was classified as a motor vehicle.

Additionally, the authority addressed the aspect of legal liability, stating that while it may have been a legitimate claim, the insurance policy in question conveniently draws a line, omitting any claims connected to the ownership or operation of a 'mechanically propelled vehicle.'

The underlying fact, as pointed out by AFCA, was that any car functions through mechanical propulsion, dovetailing with its design intent. Thus, the Mercedes, regardless of its non-functional state, was subject to the same rules, exempting the legal liability concerns from the policy's scope of coverage.

Despite the setback for the claimant in terms of coverage, AFCA noted an oversight by the insurer during its claims process. Allianz overlooked the policyholder's legal liability concerns without due consideration, an error that led to frustration and inconvenience for the customer. In light of this, AFCA has ruled that Allianz compensate the claimant with AUD 1,000 for non-financial losses sustained as a result of the claim handling process.

Published:Wednesday, 24th Apr 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

Allianz Partners Introduces Tailored Cruise Travel Insurance for Australians

22 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

In a strategic move to cater to the growing number of Australian cruise enthusiasts, Allianz Partners has unveiled a cruise-specific travel insurance product in collaboration with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). This initiative aims to provide comprehensive coverage tailored to the unique needs of cruise travellers. - read more

Australian Insurers Face Challenges in Cybersecurity Readiness

22 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent findings from the PwC Insurance Banana Skins Survey reveal that Australian insurers are trailing behind their global counterparts in cybersecurity preparedness. This lag is particularly concerning given the rapid evolution of cyber threats, especially those enhanced by artificial intelligence (AI). - read more

Australian General Insurers Report Record Profits Amid Premium Hikes

22 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Australia's general insurance industry has reported a remarkable financial performance, achieving a 19% return on equity (ROE) for the 2025 financial year-the highest in a decade. This significant milestone reflects a combination of strategic premium increases and favourable market conditions. - read more

Australian Life Insurance Sector Anticipates Steady Growth Amid Economic Recovery

22 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian life insurance market is on a trajectory of steady growth, with projections indicating an increase in gross written premiums (GWP) from $26.2 billion in 2025 to $30.5 billion by 2029. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9%, reflecting a positive outlook for the sector. - read more

ICA Advocates for Overhaul of Civil Liability Laws Amid Rising Insurance Premiums

22 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has recently released a white paper highlighting the urgent need for reforms to state and territory civil liability laws, which have remained largely unchanged for nearly 25 years. These outdated laws are contributing to significant increases in public liability insurance premiums, affecting a wide range of businesses across the nation. - read more

Click for more Insurance News