Vulnerability in our vehicles and on our roads

Efficient transport infrastructure, encompassing maritime, aviation, rail, roads and public transport, is one of the key variables required for sustainable economic development. People and goods need to move into and out of, as well as in and around, the country with reasonable ease, affordability for commuters and cost value for business, and security. South Africa has world-class infrastructure, yet our roads remain some of the deadliest on the planet.

South Africa celebrates Transport Month every October when many issues relating to the sector are highlighted and profiled with this year’s theme “Together we move South Africa forward”. For Sasria, this is a time to take stock of the results of our motor vehicle claims within the period. “Whilst our primary cover is not directly linked to road safety or driver and pedestrian behaviour, it still has an impact on the prevailing road practices and collective sentiment of South African behaviour and attitudes towards our vehicles and roads,” says Thokozile Ntshiqa, executive manager for stakeholder management at Sasria. “People spend inordinate amounts of time in their cars and business vehicles and since these assets can cost significant amounts, it makes sense that they should be adequately protected”. 

“Sasria also has a mandate beyond providing short-term insurance solutions in volatile situations and must make an impact on the economic stability, growth, development and transformation of South Africa. Vehicles, roads and transport all play a major role in sustaining our economy and we all have to contribute towards this,” explains Ntshiqa. 

For a nominal fee, individuals and businesses can cover their motor vehicles against special risks that other commercial insurance companies will not protect. There is an increasing trend in the number of public protests and civil commotion witnessed across the country as well as a rise in the severity. “In terms of asset protection, vehicles are most at risk in these situations as their location is not always fixed. Just as road accidents can happen anywhere, so can you and your car become a victim of a terrorist attack or labour strike that has turned violent almost anywhere these days,” continues Ntshiqa. 

During the 2015/2016 financial year, over 60 trucks were torched by Steelpoort residents during service delivery protests resulting in claims of just over R50 million in damages. While in Pretoria, disgruntled commuters set a train alight which resulted in an estimate of R23 million in claims. 

The Sasria motor class of business claims received from April to August 2016 totals R133 million emanating from 906 claims; of these, 125 were received during the month of August only. “We are expecting to see a concomitant rise in claims for the September 2016 period following the recent uprisings. This is a vulnerable time and we are geared to provide efficient assistance where we can,” concludes Ntshiqa. 

The motivation to procure special risk cover for your personal and business vehicles is clear. Special risk cover offered by Sasria is available through all short-term insurance companies in South Africa. Just ask your broker or insurance company for details and costs.