Did an uninsured driver hit your car? It’s unfair – Uninsured drivers cause accidents, and insured motorists end up covering the costs despite paying for their own insurance. This financial burden shifts to responsible drivers, despite them doing the right thing.
According to a recent study, South African roads are among the most dangerous in the world. This makes it very likely that insured drivers will end up paying for damage out of their own pockets.
BusinessTech reports that of the 12 million cars on South African roads, only about one-third are insured. That means there’s a 70% chance your accident could involve an uninsured driver.
The Effects of an Uninsured Driver
When most motorists don’t have insurance, those who do end up paying more through increased premiums. You’re essentially covering someone else’s negligence, even if you follow the rules of the road. These costs include your vehicle excess and damage to your claims history.
With inflation and rising vehicle repair costs, keeping insurance affordable is getting harder. A larger base of insured drivers would allow insurers to lower premiums and excesses. If more people contributed to the pool, fewer individuals would have to cover large losses.
Is Driving Without Insurance Illegal?
In many countries, car insurance is a legal requirement before driving, not just when financing a vehicle through a bank. For example, in the UK, drivers must have at least third-party insurance. This policy covers damage or injury caused to another person, vehicle, or property — but not your own vehicle.
We believe (Opinion only) that if you can’t afford insurance, you shouldn’t be driving a car. Without coverage, you can’t protect your own or others’ assets if an accident happens — and in South Africa, that risk is very high.
From 1942 to 1997, South Africa had compulsory third-party insurance. This policy covered bodily injury and vehicle damage, but was later replaced by the Road Accident Fund (RAF). Today, the RAF only covers injury or death. Vehicle repair costs now fall to the insurer or the vehicle owner.
How to Handle an Accident with an Uninsured Driver
It may take time before third-party insurance becomes mandatory again. In the meantime, it’s important for consumers to understand their policies. If you’re hit by an uninsured driver, your insurer can usually pursue third-party recovery for you.
To increase your chances of recovering costs:
- Always report the accident to the police and get a case number. Your insurer will need it to proceed.
- Collect as much information as possible at the scene. Take photos of both vehicles and the accident scene.
- Get the other driver’s details, including ID, name, contact info, insurance company (if any), and policy number.
- Understand your excess structures. Some plans allow higher monthly premiums in exchange for no excess when dealing with uninsured drivers. Ask your insurer or broker if they offer this option.
Many people only learn about large excess payments at the time of loss, which can be financially devastating. Knowing your policy inside out helps you prepare for the unexpected.
Conclusion
Until South Africa reintroduces compulsory third-party insurance, all motorists should consider getting at least basic third-party cover. It’s an affordable way to ensure you’re not left paying for damages caused by someone else.
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Further Reading on: Implications of Driving an Uninsured Vehicle