Mutual & Federal urges young drivers to be responsible on the roads this festive season

Karen Miller, Executive: Underwriting at Mutual & Federal

Leading insurer Mutual & Federal, a member of the Old Mutual Group, is urging young drivers taking to the roads this festive season to exercise extra caution.

This comes after common fatal crash trends released by Arrive Alive after the 2011 festive season indicated that 19 to 29 year olds were the most vulnerable age group on the roads.

“While this is an exciting time for many school leavers who have just finished writing final exams and will be embarking on Matric holidays, for many it is the first time that they will be driving long distances on busy national roads. It is therefore important that they act responsibly and exercise the necessary caution, by (for example): being fully rested when embarking on the journey, taking frequent breaks; driving safely, keeping a safe following distance, driving defensively, observing speed limits, driving sober,” says Karen Miller, Executive: Underwriting at Mutual & Federal.

In addition to being adequately prepared to take-on a long journey, Miller also cautions new drivers to ensure that their vehicles are adequately insured and that they know what to do in the event of an accident. “Young drivers often do not see extensive insurance cover as a necessity and opt to skimp on cover in an attempt to reduce costs.”

“However, they need to realise that not having insurance or under insuring their assets (in this case their cars) exposes them to great financial risk because they will still be expected to pay their instalments if the car is bank-financed.”

“At the same time, new vehicle owners with comprehensive motor insurance should also take it upon themselves to familiarise themselves with exactly what to do should they be involved in accident.

Important information includes knowing or being aware of emergency numbers to contact, who is authorised to tow the vehicle if it is not driveable; and the details needed to obtain a case number at the police station when claiming from an insurer”, explains Miller.

According to Miller, it is also important for the vehicle owner to confirm and take heed of what their insurance policy stipulates with regards to nominated drivers. “On long trips it is common and often advisable to take turns driving to avoid driver fatigue. However, vehicle owners must be aware that future claims may be rejected if the insurance company has restricted the drivers of that specific vehicle.

They should also be aware that they need to comply with the country’s legislation at all times – if not, they could find that their claim could be rejected. Insurers will not compensate for claims arising from driving without a valid vehicle license; driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs; or if their blood-alcohol level is over the legal limit.

“The bottom line is that new vehicle owners must read their policy and the schedule and make sure that they clearly understand the terminology, terms and conditions, and any exclusion clauses,” she concludes.