Motor Claims

General Investigation Procedures for - Auto Theft and Hi-Jacking

1. We obtain a copy of the saps circulation printout. The circulation details are checked by us for the date, time, and place of the loss, whether the engine and chassis numbers correspond with registration detail, which is noted as the complainant and owner, etc. We ensure that the particular insurer’s interest has been recorded on the circulation / sap records.

2. A natis information printout is obtained and checked by us for ownership details, previous owners, whether the vehicle is financed, etc.

3. We obtain a printout of confirmation as to whether the client or driver at the time of loss holds a valid driver’s license and whether there are any endorsements or restrictions listed.

4. We have saps records checked for any previous cases reported by the insured such as auto theft, housebreaking, etc. As this may reflect a modus operandi or affect a possible non-claim bonus.

5. The saps investigating officer is interviewed and the case is discussed with him / her. A copy of the a1 statement is obtained and information is then compared with the claim information as supplied by the insured.

6. A letter of non-recovery is obtained from the saps.

7. A credit check is done on the client and or driver in order to determine whether possible financial problems exist.

8. After obtaining all of the relevant information of the theft we have an interview with the insured to verify that all information is true and correct and to clear up any discrepancies, if any is noted.

9. The scene of the crime is visited and enquiries are made in the surrounding area to obtain outside information or witnesses to assist us in our investigation and for verification of the claim. Photos are also taken of the scene of incident.

General Investigation Procedures for - Motor Vehicle Accident

1. We obtain a copy of the SAPS accident report and confirm the description of events on the report. Any witnesses and third parties involved are interviewed and their version of events obtained. We determine whether the SAPS are investigating a criminal case and interviews are conducted with police personnel who visited the scene, as well as breakdown personnel, ambulance personnel, etc.

2. We visit the scene and possible witness’s living / working at or near the scene are interviewed. We search for possible evidence such as skid marks, etc. and photograph such.

3. We inspect the vehicle involved and check for roadworthiness, whether tyres have been changed after the accident, for any signs of alcohol or medication inside the vehicle, the position of the driver seat, etc. During this inspection, we do an assessment at an extra cost of R500.00, if requested.

4. We interview the insured or the driver at the time of the accident and obtain a description of the events.

5. A copy of the identity document and drivers license is obtained from the insured and driver. A driver’s license check is done and confirmation obtained.

6. A random insurance check is performed in order to confirm any existing no claims bonus and whether possible dual insurance exists.

7. If any reasons are found relating to issues such as drunken driving, questions as to identity of the driver at the time of the accident etc, we obtain all relevant evidence needed in order to repudiate such claim.

8. We supply vehicle values.

9. A full report is submitted with our recommendations and all relevant attachments.

Keith Olliver keith@uics.co.za

Please call us on 021 930 4686 for more information.