Unroadworthy vehicles could void insurance

Delays in freight delivery,
particularly with regard to
time-sensitive goods, are currently
a major challenge in Gauteng and
these are generally not insured
under a marine or goods in transit
(GIT) policy.
“It is imperative that customers
arrange cover for loss or damage
as a result of delay, should this be
a risk,” said Hugh Reimers,
managing director of Eikos
Risk Applications. He
noted that there were
a high number of
freight accidents
on Gauteng
roads due
to inadequate
driver training
compounded by
increased congestion and
poor road conditions
“Unfortunately too, many
roads still remain in a poor
condition, and the risk of damage
to vehicles remains, regrettably,
very high,” said Reimers. He
noted that operators involved
in long distance-distribution
should closely monitor the
roadworthiness of their fleet.
“Gauteng may be a lucrative
province for your company, but in
the event of an accident, an insurer
will only consider a claim if the
vehicle is completely roadworthy.
In the event of a claim, if you
are a cargo owner, your vehicle
will be inspected, and if you are
in any doubt about the criteria
for roadworthiness, chat to your
specialist marine broker for
assistance with this,” he said.
Reimers also cautioned
against reducing costs
around insurance.
Even though it
may be tempting
in tough
economic times, it
could be crippling in
the long-term. “Gauteng
continues to be a source
of potential growth for the
logistics industry, and while we
must celebrate this, it is imperative
to note that successful companies
will be those who have identified
the risks in their supply chain and
have taken the necessary steps to
create sustainable solutions,” said
Reimers.