How SRCC coverage protects your car during civic unrest

If you live in the Philippines, you know how unpredictable things are - especially in metro cities. From riots to strikes - you never know what is gonna happen next and how you will be affected. Therefore, it is best to always be prepared and to get the best protection available. The same goes for your beloved car, as it is the first one to take the hit of an angry crowd when parked outside.

The good news is that providers offer SRCC coverage specifically designed for situations like these. It is your best bet for a financial safety net against situations that cause unrest.

Civil unrest in the Philippines

No country is unfamiliar with civil unrest - minor or major, such events are a part of every nation's history, present, and future. And the Philippines is no different. Coming to the reasons, civil unrest can occur due to political protests, local disputes, labour strikes, and even economic issues.

It’s not that all protests or strikes are chaotic; most gatherings are peaceful, but you never know when matters escalate, and things go out of hand. And in such situations, nearby parked vehicles are the most common victims.

Impact on parked cars & their owners

Imagine you wake up feeling good and excited about the day, head to your office in your car, and as a ritual, park it in a safe, everyday spot. But when it ends, you return to a damaged car with broken windows or worse (fire damage, theft, vandalism) due to unrest in the area. Without proper coverage, you’ll end up paying for all repair and replacement costs.

Also Read: Car Flooding 101: What to do and when insurance will cover the damage

SRCC coverage: Understanding the basics first

What does SRCC stand for? Strike, Riot, and Civil Commotion.

What is SRCC coverage, and what does it offer? The SRCC coverage is an add-on to the comprehensive policy that specifically protects your vehicle from damages caused by or during unrest-related situations.

What events are covered under SRCC? This coverage mostly covers damages to the vehicle resulting from acts during strikes, riots, civil disturbances, and public disorder.

Why you need SRCC coverage

Here’s why you include SRCC coverage in your car insurance policy: rising risks in urban areas.

It is a fact that metro areas are becoming more crowded and active by the day. With so many people and vehicles around, the risk tends to increase due to traffic congestion, public demonstrations, and unexpected disturbances. In such cases, even parked cars are not safe during unrest.

Real-life scenarios -

• A peaceful protest turns violent near your parking area
• A workers' strike leads to property damage
• A riot causes a fire explosion, damaging a nearby vehicle

Also Read: Common myths around total loss car insurance & the truth behind them

SRCC coverage & how it protects your vehicle during unrest

Time to address the elephant in the room - how SRCC protects your beloved car? Here’s what’s on offer -

Protection against riots & strikes

If your car is damaged during a riot or strike, the SRCC coverage will protect you by covering repair costs, replacement of damaged parts, and labour costs. It relieves the policyholder of financial stress.

Malicious damage coverage

During an unrest situation, individuals in a state of anger or agitation intentionally damage the vehicle. In such situations, SRCC coverage protects against scratches, broken glass, and body damage.

Fire & explosion protection

In worst-case scenarios, riots lead to fires that often damage the surrounding vehicles. With SRCC coverage by your side, your car is protected against fire and explosion-related damage.

Also Read: Top 7 benefits of zero-depreciation car insurance for car owners

Key features of the SRCC coverage

Enhances the scope of comprehensive coverage: When added to your plan, the SRCC coverage enhances your standard insurance policy by offering protection when it matters - during chaos.

Affordable add-on option around: The good news is that SRCC coverage is usually easy to add, low-cost, and highly valuable.

Also Read: How regular car maintenance can protect your insurance claims: Let’s find out!

Exclusions of the SRCC coverage

What damages are not covered by SRCC coverage? This is an important question to ask, so that you don’t get shocked at the time of claim.

You see, everything is not covered under SRCC coverage; common exclusions include -

• War or invasion
• Nuclear risk
• Intentional acts by the policyholder/driver

There may be more, so it is recommended that you read the policy fine print for complete clarity.

How to add SRCC coverage to your policy

It is quite simple, and usually the job gets done in the following steps -

Step 1: Contact your provider
Step 2: Enquire about SRCC coverage
Step 3: Review the terms and conditions. If it works for you, request its addition to your existing plan.
Step 4: Pay additional premium
Step 5: Get updated policy & read the fine print

Note that if some clause or term isn’t clear, get clarity asap.

Also Read: How to claim CTPL Insurance? Here’s what you need to know

Cost of SRCC coverage

The cost of any coverage, whether it's Acts of God, Roadside Assistance, or SRCC, varies by provider and is influenced by factors such as the car’s value, location, and risk level.

Typically, the cost of SRCC coverage is not very high, especially given the coverage it provides during times of distress. It just adds a small percentage to your premium.

Practical tips to maximise your car’s safety

• As much as possible, park at a secure spot, preferably with a guard and a camera.
• Stay updated with the local news so that you can make smarter commute decisions.
• Make sure to review your insurance plan annually and update it as needed.
• Add SRCC coverage to your comprehensive plan for that added layer of protection.

Also Read: Essential rights and duties every car insurance policyholder in the Philippines should know

Bottom line

Understanding the basics of car insurance and the different coverages offered by providers is essential for car owners. One such coverage that mostly remains under the rug and should be known is the SRCC (strike, riot, and civil commotion). Why? Having this coverage will give you confidence and keep your peace of mind intact even during the most stressful times.

You see, we live in a world where unpredictability is part of our daily lives, and having the right protection makes all the difference. The SRCC coverage ensures that when chaos strikes, you do not have to deal with any sort of financial burden (related to your vehicle).

It doesn't matter if you are driving through the busy streets of Metro Manila or parking in a guarded spot; things can go wrong anywhere, and being prepared is the only way out.

Also Read: Does standard car insurance cover engine damage? Here’s what you need to know