Motorists are being warned that failing to maintain their vehicles could result in their short-term insurance claims being rejected - leaving them to foot the bill after an accident.
Many consumers forget that all general insurance policies carry a wear and tear and gradual deterioration exclusion as well as exclusions on mechanical and electrical breakdown which requires policyholders to take reasonable steps to prevent damage and keep their property in safe, working order. When it comes to vehicles, this means ignoring a repair centre’s advice to replace worn brakes, bald tyres below a certain tread, faulty suspension, or broken lights could have serious consequences.
Dewald Ranft, Chairman of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), says motorists need to be aware that an assessor will look at whether poor maintenance contributed to an accident before approving a claim.
“If an accident is caused, or made worse, because a vehicle was not maintained in a roadworthy condition, the insurer can decline the claim. For example, if worn brakes prevent you from stopping in time, or bald tyres cause you to lose control in the rain, the insurer is within their rights to reject the claim,” says Ranft.
According to the National Financial Ombud, wear and tear, gradual deterioration, and a lack of maintenance are some of the leading reasons insurance claims are declined in South Africa. While this is often discussed in relation to buildings and property, the same principle applies to vehicles.
SAIA agrees saying that while having a motor insurers cover can give you the peace of mind at the time loss, it remains the vehicle owners responsibility to ensure the efficient running and safety of their vehicle on our roads. It is always important to inspect your vehicle regularly and pay attention to the vehicle warning signs.
Themba Palagangwe, GM: Governance and Transformation at SAIA adds, “With the increase in climate-related events such as storms, hail and floods in the recent months, it is even more important for vehicles owners to be extra vigilant regarding the repairs and maintenance that their vehicles need, in order to increase safety on the roads and also the chances of their insurance claims being paid in the event of an accident.”
Ranft concludes by advising motorists to:
• Service their vehicles regularly and keep a record of work done.
• Act immediately on safety-related advice from a trusted repair centre.
• Ensure tyres, brakes, suspension, and lights meet safety standards.
“Maintaining your vehicle is not only essential for your safety and that of other road users - it is also a vital part of protecting your insurance cover,” Ranft adds.
“A small, timely repair could save you from a massive financial loss.”