More than 14,000 people are killed on South Africa’s roads every year – a shocking number that’s significantly higher than both the global and African averages. Over the holidays, in particular, serious road accidents are a daily occurrence.
If you have the misfortune to be involved in an accident, King Price Insurance client experience partner Wynand van Vuuren has the lowdown on what to do at the scene, and how to make your insurance claims process as painless as possible.
After an accident
You’re legally required to stop at an accident scene. Your first priority must be to check for any injuries. After that, assess the damage and, if necessary, call the police and emergency services. You must also give your information to anyone who has a legitimate reason to request it. Then, remember to report the accident to the SA Police Service (SAPS) as soon as possible.
Here’s a quick checklist:
• Get the names, phone numbers, home and email addresses, and insurance information of everyone involved, and take photos of their drivers’ licences.
• Note the make, model, year, colour, and licence plate number of all cars involved, as well as the date, time, location, and road and weather conditions.
• Document the accident scene, including damage to all cars. Take photos if it’s safe to do so.
• If your car isn’t driveable, ensure that an insurer-approved company tows it from the scene.
• Never admit fault. Share your details and let your insurer handle the rest.
• Report the accident to SAPS within 24 hours. If you’re injured, report it as soon as you reasonably can. Failing to report an accident that causes damage or injury is a criminal offence.
Claiming from your insurer
You have 30 days in which to report accidents to your insurer, whether or not you plan to claim for them. “The monthly premium that you pay is based on your risk profile, so if incidents go unreported your insurer is evaluating you based on an incorrect profile. This could lead to future claims being denied, or your policy or premium being adjusted.”
It’s also important to remember that your insurer may not cover your loss, damage or liability if you take longer than 30 days to lodge your claim
To help ensure that claims are settled as quickly as possible:
• Tell your insurer right away. The sooner you do so, the sooner they can assist you.
• Provide all the details your insurer asks for, including everything you collected at the scene, the SAPS case number and report, and your statement. It’s crucial to be completely transparent.
• Wait for your insurer’s guidance before disposing of any damaged property or starting repairs or replacements. You’ll need written approval from them before taking any action in your personal capacity.
• Pay any applicable excess amounts.
“No one chooses to have an accident. But, if it does happen, the best thing you can do is play your part in making your insurance claim, as well as getting your car repaired or replaced, as smooth and speedy as possible,” says Van Vuuren.
Here’s a handy accident form for you to print out and keep in your car. It guides you through what to do at the scene of an accident: https://www.kingprice.co.za/Content/documents/King-price-insurance-accident-form.pdf
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– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) September 5, 2024
