Johannesburg - South African motorists have been urged to have an “add-on extra” to their car insurance policies to cover their vehicles during social upheavals.
Short-term insurance specialist Warwick Scott-Rodger’s advice comes after vehicles were torched during several protests in Limpopo.
About 15 trucks, 12 light vehicles, a bus and a police armoured Nyala were set alight in three Limpopo towns since last month.
Several police vehicles were also damaged when protesters pelted them with stones, police spokeswoman Colonel Ronel Otto said yesterday.
CAUGHT IN THE CROSSFIRE
As the violent protests continued, motorists often became caught in the crossfire.
Scott-Rodger, head of Dial Direct Insurance, urged drivers to ensure they were affiliated to the South African Special Risks Insurance Association (Sasria).
It is a state-owned entity that provides insurance for damage incurred during politically motivated acts, political riots, terrorism, and non-political perils such as strikes and labour disturbances.
Scott-Rodger said motorists should ensure Sasria cover was included in their policies. “If they’re not properly covered, their insurance company might reject claims for damage or loss incurred during a strike, civil unrest or protest.”
He said Dial Direct automatically included Sasria in its car insurance policy as long as “your vehicle is financed, and you tell us this during the underwriting stage of your policy”.
Scott-Rodger said that with Dial Direct Insurance, Sasria would add only R7 to the monthly premium.
“If your car isn’t financed at the time of taking the policy, or if you’re insuring your house or home contents, then Sasria cover is optional. After the vehicle has been paid off, your Sasria cover continues for as long as your insurance policy does.”
The Star