Though theft of vehicles is not common in Zimbabwe, here is what you need to do should it happen and you are comprehensively insured:
Once the claim documents are submitted, there is a 6-week waiting period which currently applies on most comprehensive vehicle insurance policies (as at the time of writing in March 2023). This period is to allow investigations by the relevant police department to be conducted. These investigations can have 2 outcomes:
The vehicle is recovered.
If the vehicle is recovered and you are satisfied after examination by an expert that all is in working order, the claim is withdrawn.
If the vehicle is recovered and there has been damage to it caused by the theft, your insurance policy will pay for the repair costs to restore its prior state subject to the policy terms and conditions.
If the vehicle is recovered but it is beyond repair, the insurance will settle on a total loss basis subject to any excesses/deductibles and other policy conditions.
The vehicle is not recovered.
If the vehicle is not recovered after 6 weeks, you are often required to get a report from the relevant police department indicating that they have not recovered it at that stage. The police will continue with their investigations but in the interim, your insurance policy will settle on a total loss basis subject to any excesses/deductibles and other policy conditions.
If the vehicle is then recovered later after the insurance company has already settled the claim, the car will be surrendered as salvage to the insurance company.
Firstlink assists clients to structure adequate cover for personal and corporate motor fleets. Our clients also benefit from our dedicated claim’s service in the event of a loss. Our approach removes ambiguity and complexity often associated with motor insurance claims.
Talk to us today about cover for your vehicles on (0242)744048/79, 0772392075, 0779203074 or 0782146301 or email info@riskmanagers.co.zw
