Contributing factors include a high road death rate of 17.9 per 100 000 people, below average road infrastructure and severe traffic congestion. These conditions affect vehicle longevity and resale values, creating ripple effects throughout the automotive sales sector.

"The study from Compare the Market underlines that drivers should be ready for the unexpected on our roads," says Ernest North, co-founder of Naked, a car and home insurance platform. "Unpredictable drivers, potholed roads and thundershowers are just a few of the factors that make driving in South Africa so interesting."

For prospective buyers, these hazardous conditions increasingly influence purchasing decisions. Safety features such as advanced driver assistance systems, multiple airbags and electronic stability control have become key selling points. Dealerships report that buyers actively seek vehicles with robust build quality capable of withstanding poor road surfaces and potential collision scenarios.

The used car market faces particular challenges. Accident history checks have become essential, with many vehicles on the market bearing hidden damage from South Africa's dangerous roads. Buyers increasingly demand comprehensive vehicle histories and pre-purchase inspections, adding time and cost to transactions. Cars with documented accident repairs often suffer significant depreciation, even when professionally restored.

Ground clearance has emerged as a crucial consideration. Vehicles with higher suspensions cope better with potholes and damaged road surfaces, driving demand for SUVs and crossovers whilst sedan sales struggle. This shift affects inventory planning for dealerships and alters the composition of the used car pool.

Insurance costs directly impact affordability. "Insurance is there to protect you when things go wrong. Most claims are linked to accidents, which account for the bulk of repair and replacement costs. The right cover also protects you against theft, hijacking, pothole damage and third-party liability," explains North. Higher premiums in high-risk areas make vehicle ownership more expensive, potentially pushing budget-conscious buyers towards cheaper, older vehicles or delaying purchases altogether.

The theft and hijacking risks North mentions further complicate the market. Popular models frequently targeted by criminals suffer from inflated insurance premiums, making them less attractive despite good specifications and pricing. Conversely, vehicles with strong security features and lower theft statistics command premium prices in the used car market.

Vehicle durability has become a sales differentiator. Models known for robust construction and reliability retain value better in South Africa's harsh environment. North advises keeping cars in roadworthy condition, ensuring tyres have sufficient tread depth and correct pressure, and regularly checking brake pads, windscreen wipers and indicators.

Vehicles requiring less frequent maintenance and proving resilient to challenging conditions earn stronger reputations and better resale values.

"You might be a safe and careful driver, but dangerous road conditions and careless road users mean that you can't always avoid accidents," says North. This reality makes comprehensive insurance virtually essential, adding to the total cost of ownership and influencing what buyers can afford.

"Many households are under financial pressure, but appropriate car insurance is well worth the money. It is a safety net that cushions you against unexpected costs and losses that could otherwise derail your finances," says North. For dealers, this means helping buyers understand the full ownership picture, not just the sticker price.

The combination of challenging road conditions, high accident rates and crime risks creates a unique market dynamic where safety, durability and insurability increasingly trump traditional considerations such as performance and luxury features.

(Picture: Unsplash – Sawyer Brice).