Ombud's warning on impact of vehicle roadworthiness for insurance claims

THE Non-life Insurance Division of the National Financial Ombud Scheme (NFO) has warned motorists to ensure their cars are roadworthy, as this could impact their claims following an incident.

- ZELDA VENTER

The organisation emphasised the importance of proper care and maintenance of vehicles. It stated that generally, insurance companies provide cover on the condition that the insured party takes reasonable steps to prevent harm.

The Non-life Insurance Division of the NFO cautioned that insurers may deny claims or limit payouts if they determine that poor vehicle maintenance contributed to an incident. It stated that the law requires all vehicles on public roads to be roadworthy, and insurers have the right to reject a claim if a vehicle's unroadworthiness contributes to an incident.

“Every time a vehicle hits the road, it enters into an unspoken contract, not just with the driver, but with the insurer. That contract hinges on one critical condition: the vehicle must be safe, legal, and roadworthy. When it isn’t, the risks multiply, not only for the driver but for everyone else on the road,” it said.