Does Your 4×4 Insurance Really Cover You?

Let’s say you’re planning a big trip to Namibia. You call your insurer, let them know where you’ll be and what you’ll be taking with you and then wait to see what they say about what will be covered and where.

Chances are if you don’t have a fitted diff lock, or if your trip includes off-road trails that aren’t ‘recognised’, you won’t be covered; and if some lowlife breaks into your vehicle while you’re fuelling up and steals your drone, camera, laptop, recovery gear or compressor, you’re probably not going to be getting much recompense from your friendly insurer – unless there are clear signs of forced entry and you can prove the items were concealed in your boot or another locked compartment.

Before you head out on your epic adventure, it’s a good idea to check exactly what you’re covered for.

Here’s a handy list of things you should ask about:

Does the policy include extended territorial cover? If not, what countries are excluded?

Will your winching equipment be covered?

Can you cover your vehicle for an agreed value that combines the value of your accessories and modifications on and in the vehicle as well as the value of the vehicle itself?

Will the policy cover the costs of returning your vehicle AND its occupants to South Africa if you’re involved in an accident?

Is there provision for airborne medical evacuation while outside RSA back to the RSA?

Does the policy provide for international legal assistance?

Will emergency repairs be covered whilst outside South Africa?

Is there cover for the loss of personal documents and keys?

Will you be covered for car-hire and emergency accommodation whilst outside RSA?

Can the policy’s cover be extended to include:

• Mountain bikes

• Quads & off-road motor cycles

• Boats & jet-skis

• Camping & fishing gear

 What do 4×4 drivers typically get exposed to?

• Political instability or unrest ;

• Theft or attempted theft of vehicle or accessories;

• Attacks from wild life; and

• Inappropriate road surfaces or non-existent roads.

But, by far the biggest risk with respect to off-road adventure is the overturning of a vehicle.

What can you do to protect yourself from these risks?

• Always ensure that your 4×4 vehicle is properly equipped to perform on the chosen terrain (i.e. fit a diff lock and the correct all-terrain tyres);

• Ensure that you’re familiar with your chosen terrain; and

• Check your tyre pressure;

Call it what you like: off roading, over landing, 4×4-ing, or simply going cross country, if you’re serious about the protection you want from your insurance policy then you need to ask the right questions and make sure you know exactly what you will and won’t be covered for.

Contact us today on 044 382 0550 for professional advice on insurance that meets your off-roading needs.

* This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or financial advice.