TIPS: Avoid car insurance claims this festive season

The festive season is a time of long-awaited holidays and celebrations. However, it is also infamous for increased traffic accidents and vehicle-related crimes, such as motor vehicle theft and hijacking.

According to the Ombudsman for Short-Term Insurance (OSTI), Stats SA shows 42 000 households experienced the theft of a motor vehicle in 2021/22, with the number of hijacking victims doubling from 64 000 to 137 000.

Stats SA’s report also highlighted that 13% of individuals who experienced crimes over the past 12 months experienced the hijacking of their vehicles. This means that insuring your car is vital, especially during the December period.

Vehicle insurance packages cover a range of incidents, meaning it is up to the driver to decide which policy best suits them. This does, however, also mean that some situations may fall outside the policy.

South Africa, unfortunately, has many potholes. The high traffic volume, weather patterns and resource challenges in the festive season contribute to this reality. Roads that are damaged inevitably lead to vehicle damage and tyre replacement can be expensive.

This is why some may need cover to make a pothole insurance claim if they are affected. This is one of the many possibilities drivers must remember when travelling long distances during the festive season.

Here are handy tips from the OSTI to avoid problems this festive season:

1. Double-check that your car is locked when you park it.
2. Park in a safe place, such as a mall parking garage.
3. Install a vehicle tracking system.
4. Update your policy to ensure specific items kept in your vehicle are covered.
5. Check that your vehicle license is renewed.
6. Make sure all the people who drive your car have their driver’s license renewed and up to date as well.
7. Do a complete vehicle check for road safety.
8. Don’t drink and drive!
9. Keep your insurer’s roadside emergency number on hand or install its app so that you can call for help.
10. Obey the rules of the road.
11. Get a good night’s sleep before a long drive and take regular breaks.
12. Do not overload your vehicle.
13. Avoid driving through known crime hotspot areas.
14. Minimise driving at night when visibility is limited.
15. Watch for people on the side of the road or on top of bridges.

It’s important to take the precautions you can, to protect yourself, your family and your vehicle.
If you find your insurance claim rejected, contact OSTI on 011 726 8900.

Also Read: Police operation a success

Also Read: Security firm warns of bakkie thefts on East Rand