Car owner sues insurance firm over theft claim denial linked to tracking device

A CAR owner has taken legal action against Discovery Insure as it refused to reimburse her for the theft of her vehicle, as the insurer claimed that the tracker device in the vehicle was faulty.

- ZELDA VENTER

Nicole Hoolsema (plaintiff) turned to the Gauteng High Court, Pretoria, for an order compelling Discovery to pay her for her loss.

The plaintiff concluded an insurance agreement with the insurer in January 2021. In terms of the agreement, Discovery insured Hoolsema' vehicle against perils such as theft, hijacking and damages.

The insurer's obligation to indemnify the plaintiff is conditional upon the installation of a Discovery Insure Crowd Search motor vehicle tracking device. This device must be in full working order at all times. In terms of the agreement, Discovery made it clear that there will be no cover if this is not done.

In November 2023, the plaintiff lodged a claim for her stolen vehicle.