Insurance companies are well within their rights to request that their clients install trackers in their cars, and customers should view the requirement as bolstering their safety on South Africa’s roads.
“If an insurance company is saying they won’t cover your vehicle for a theft risk, or they will put a very high premium on it because they think it is going to be stolen, then you as the driver and the owner should be concerned,” she said.Referring to her own experience in the insurance industry, Colman said tracking devices offer massive relief to insurers and their clients.
“[There are] vehicle makes and even certain colours of vehicles that are more attractive. These syndicates have got shopping lists of cars that they go after, and no one is safe,” Colman added. “This has become a massive problem, these thefts and hijackings, so it has to be managed by the insurance industry, and a very simple way to do it is to take proactive risk management measures.”In response to a question over concerns about insurance companies knowing a policyholder’s whereabouts and driving habits, Colman said insurers have to treat clients fairly when considering rejecting a claim.