Motorbikes and Motorcycles

The Car Guard Song and a cool look at those assisting with vehicle safety!

No Comments »Written on March 30th, 2012 by jonckie
Categories: Motorbikes and Motorcycles, Vehicle
Tags: , ,

A friend and regular visitor to the Arrive Alive website sent an email with a link to this video about a typical day in the life of a Car Guard! Having given much attention to vehicle safety on Insurance Chat, the Car Insurance Blog and Geselsversekering it is a pleasure to share this stunning video with our readers!

More info on this Video

Derick Watts & The Sunday Blues are back with another typically South African-themed parody video. The "Braaiday" creators turn their attention to car guards, and give you a glimpse into a previously unseen world - one where anything can happen whilst you are away from your beloved vehicle.

Featuring a cameo or two from several well-known faces, this video will make you laugh, cry and reach for a R5 coin all at the same time! You'll never look at the brave men and women who put themselves on the line to protect your car in the same way again.

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/derickwattsandthesundayblues

Guest vocals by the hugely talented Evelyn Hart:https://twitter.com/#!/EvelynHartMusic

Cameo: Ard Matthews
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ard-Matthews-Music/226329417383717

To buy the original song, "Love The Way You Lie" by Eminem feat. Rhianna, please
visit iTunes: http://bit.ly/ituneslovethewayyoulie


Compulsory microdot technology could reduce motor vehicle crime!

1 Comment »Written on March 13th, 2012 by jonckie
Categories: Motorbikes and Motorcycles, Q&A, Vehicle
Tags: , , , ,

Yesterday we shared info on the car insurance blog about new legislation that will make microdot technology compulsory. We would like to quote:

An amendment to the National Road Traffic Regulations was published on 9 March 2012 in Government Gazette 35130.
  • It makes the fitment of microdots to all motor vehicles first registered on or after 1 September 2012 compulsory.
  • Microdots are also required to be fitted to all motor vehicles that are presented for a SA Police clearance as from 9 March 2012 as that is the implementation date of the amendment.
The amendment was originally published for comment in February 2011.

But what is Microdot / Datadot Technology?

We would like to share information on this from an earlier post:

Are you aware of the benefits of Data Dot technology in terms of insurance and security for your car, bike or boat?

DataDot

DataDot

Data Dot technology is a passive anti-theft security system which is supported by insurers and is applied as spray film invisible to the eye over the entire vehicle. This technology can be described as a simple and effective theft deterrent system. Based on the reliable identification of key component parts of the vehicle, the vehicle is of reduced value to a professional thief. The thief is only interested in vehicles where they can easily change their identity or strip for parts.

What is this technology?

The spray contains millions of dots, each smaller than a grain of sand, which are etched by laser with a unique alpha-numeric code (which can be fully customised). This code can only be read with a special scanner that utilises a strong UV magnifier to read the code.

What are the benefit in terms of vehicle theft and insurance premiums?

Should your vehicle become a victim of theft, any parts identified with Data Dots are then traced back to the owner, hopefully leaving a trail of breadcrumbs for authorities to find and identify thieves in the process.

The Dots are a permanent identification solution for your vehicle and the attractive warning labels clearly mark your vehicle as being "Too Hot To Handle".
VESA, a non-profit organisation that regulates the vehicle security industry, endorses the product as it is having a positive impact on the return of recovered stolen vehicles. The SAIA (South African Insurance Association) also certifies this technology. The technology therefore also poses a cost saving benefit from an insurance premium perspective.

Each individual client /vehicle owner is evaluated on their own merits when it comes to insurance risk. Your broker or insurance underwriters will need to establish your individual rate and whether there might be a reduction based on your overall risk profile. The South African Insurance Association certifies the Data Dot technology and is fully aware of the benefits.

Most insurers will provide the vehicle owner of a vehicle equipped with Data Dot technology a discount on the vehicle insurance premium. In tough economic times with so much vehicle theft taking place - it might be important to benefit from technology offering the opportunity to save on insurance expenses!

Also view:

Microdot/ Datadot Technology and Car Insurance

What does your insurance company deem to be secured parking?

No Comments »Written on February 24th, 2012 by jonckie
Categories: Legal, Motorbikes and Motorcycles, Ombudsman, Q&A, Vehicle
Tags: , , ,

One of the aspects considered by insurance companies when calculating car insurance premiums is where you park your car. This is an important component in calculating the risk of both loss and damage. Not only loss and damage from criminal activity may be affected, but also the damage from environmental disasters such as hail, falling debris etc.

It is also important to keep in mind that there are many different structures used for protection and not all parking spaces are the same. They differ with regards to materials used, methods to secure and “lock-in” the vehicle as well as with reference to access to the vehicle!

When an insurance company provides a quote on car insurance, the insurer asks for specific information from the vehicle owner/potential client. The client discloses these facts which the insurance company will not be aware of and might not even verify. The onus is on the client to make a full disclosure of all the material facts and failure to do so will amount to breach of contract and could nullify the insurance policy!

But is secure parking the same as parking in a locked garage?

We would like to illustrate this by using an example:

Example:

I have received a request from a work colleague and decided to share this with a few insurers:

-              What is regarded by Insurers with reference to secure parking as a locked garage?

-              Are there specific requirements as to dimensions and materials?

Example of Secure Parking

In the photos you will find a typical parking area at a townhouse complex in Bloemfontein.

The Garage area is closed with a lock – with an aluminium /steel roller door.

The gate is also secured with a lock.

There is a wall to the front and the one side – but not all around!

On the question – is your car parked in a locked garage - would Yes be the correct response?

Would the insured be under an obligation to provide additional details?

What would your advice be to ensure full compliance and the correct insurance?

Side view of parking space

We would like to share responses received from some of the Insurance companies:

MiWay:

  1. What is regarded by Insurers with reference to secure parking as a locked garage?
  • Enclosed locked (locked enclosure) – the vehicle is parked in a locked carport where the vehicle is still visible through the palisade/other fencing.
  • Locked garage – the vehicle is parked in a locked garage and the vehicle is not visible from outside.

2. Are there specific requirements as to dimensions and materials?

-          There is currently no restriction on the dimensions of a garage.  But it should be your personal garage – 3rd parties should not be able to see or have access to your vehicle(s) locked inside it.

-          For the structure to qualify as a locked garage, the vehicle should not be visible – this will rule out some materials such as palisades (or the lack of a sidewall in the example.)

Discovery Insure

-          What is regarded by Insurers with reference to secure parking as a locked garage?

A locked garage is regarded as an enclosed outbuilding with four walls and a garage door which could be a roller door, wooden door etc. that can be locked either by an electronic remote control or a key mechanism.

-          Are there specific requirements as to dimensions and materials?

There are various requirements and therefore the best is to consult a registered building contractor for assistance – but the DI wording states that all buildings on the premises must be constructed of brick, stone or concrete and covered with a roof made of slate, tile, concrete, fibrous cement, metal or thatch

-          On the question – is your car parked in a locked garage  - would Yes be the correct response

No, as the item in question would be regarded as a carport and not a garage as access can be gained by climbing over the wall next to the carport or breaking open the lock on the side gate to gain entry

-          Would the insured be under an obligation to provide additional details?

No as he already disclosed all

-          What would your advice be to ensure full compliance and the correct insurance?

Client would need to disclose that the vehicle is parked in a carport with a locked garage door but that access can be gained as the carport is not enclosed.  Full cover will be in place for the vehicle for theft and accidental damage.

Conclusion and Advice:

Rather disclose more than less! Keep in mind that not all insurers might have the same requirements and criteria for what is regarded as secure parking!

A full disclosure of all the facts will avoid having to spend the time and effort in unnecessary fights later. Explain your specific parking area to your insurer and even send photos as an example to be kept on record!

Don’t risk your own safety by getting involved in road rage!

No Comments »Written on January 30th, 2012 by jonckie
Categories: Motorbikes and Motorcycles, Vehicle
Tags: , ,

Your safety needs to be placed above any personal desire to put someone else in his place! But what should we do when confronted by aggressive drivers?

Tips on handling situations involving aggressive drivers:

• If a driver is putting pressure on you:

If possible and safe, move to the left and let the other driver pass you.

• If you are faced with aggressive behaviour:

Stay calm.

Avoid eye contact with the aggressive driver so as not to exacerbate the situation.

Do not respond to provocative words or actions.

Do not respond with disrespectful words or actions.

Do what you can to avoid conflict.

• If an aggressive person leaves his vehicle and heads toward you:

Remain in your vehicle, make sure the windows are shut and doors locked.

Avoid arguing with the aggressive driver, looking at the person or making provocative gestures.

Leave the area and go to a place where you can get help.

Do not go home if the aggressive driver is following you.

If you’re in traffic and can’t drive away, pick up your cellphone and show the person you are calling the Police

If the person doesn’t back off, honk your horn to attract the attention of other drivers.

Note the make of the other driver’s car and his or her license plate.

Also visit the following sections:

Harley- Davidson recall also includes bikes from South Africa

No Comments »Written on October 25th, 2011 by jonckie
Categories: Motorbikes and Motorcycles, Vehicle
Tags: ,

Harley Davidson captured on camera at Free State Stadium

Harley-Davidson is recalling about 308 000 motorcycles - including some in South Africa - to fix a switch that could nuke the bike's brake lights... possibly even the actual rear brakes.

The US bikemaker said that brake-light switches could be exposed to too much heat from the exhaust system which could cause the light to fai. The technical issuse could also cause fluid leaks and the loss of rear brake-pressure.

South Africa customers also affected

The problem affects Touring, CVO Touring and Trike vehicles assembled from 2009 to 2012.

The recall affects about 251 000 motorcycles in the US and will affect South African Harley owners, too

Harley-Davidson SA says it will notify owners affected machines and that workshops will install a rear brake-light switch kit free of charge.

Also view:

Alarming number of vehicle owners not responding to vehicle recalls

Vehicle Recalls and Car Insurance

[Story from Wheels24 with photo from Phototalk.co.za]

MiWayMTB and TREAD team up to offer MTB skills clinics

No Comments »Written on August 19th, 2011 by jonckie
Categories: Bicycles and Mountain Bikes, Motorbikes and Motorcycles, Q&A, Vehicle
Tags: , , ,

Jaco Lups on a training ride

In an effort to improve the South African mountain biking experience even further, MiWayMTB, the mountain bike initiative driven by direct insurer MiWay, has teamed up with TREAD Magazine’s very successful skills improvement initiative.

Started in April 2010, TREAD Skills Clinics have helped improve the skills of hundreds of mountain bikers through a combination of improved control, comfort and confidence.

According to MiWayMTB’s Carine Conradie, the clinics are designed to equip mountain biking enthusiasts with the skills they need to safely enjoy the sport. “TREAD editor, Sean Badenhorst, and his team will provide riders with tips and techniques to help maximise their performance while making the whole experience as enjoyable – and as painless – as possible,” says Conradie.

The clinics cater for newcomers and more experienced riders looking to sharpen their technical skills and improve specific performance areas. The clinics are broken into two levels, 101 and 201 in order to cover all the relevant areas of importance. Once a rider has graduated from a 101 level, he or she may then, after some weeks of practising, attend a 201 clinic. A Confidence Clinic will be also introduced for those brand new to mountain biking.

“Mountain biking enjoyment and fulfillment can only really be achieved when you have the confidence to tackle the various trail or race obstacles such as ruts, roots, rocks, drop-offs, steep ascents and descents etc,” says Badenhorst.. “Our clinics are designed to teach mountain bikers the correct technique to be able to conquer these obstacles and are appropriate for all mountain bikers. Our clinics are also very popular with road cyclists converting to mountain biking.”

To participate in TREAD Skills Clinics, presented by MiWayMTB, simply email info@treadmag.co.za or visit www.mtb.miway.co.za for more information. You can also join the MiWayMTB Facebook fan page on www.facebook.com/miwaymtb

On the Arrive Alive website there are 2 sections well worth of your attention:

Cycling safely on South African roads and mountain bike trails

Cycling Safety Suggestions for South African Conditions

Also view:

Mountain biking community warned to be alert of counterfeiters targeting cyclists

Mountain bikers warned to be alert to the threat of bike jacking in South Africa

Quad bike insurance required to protect from accidents and injury

3 commentsWritten on February 23rd, 2011 by jonckie
Categories: Motorbikes and Motorcycles, Vehicle
Tags: , , , ,

On the Arrive Alive website we have shared information on the risks of quad bike injuries. This is a rather significant threat to the safety of young inexperienced quad bike riders. We raised our concerns on the Accidents Blog in a post titled “Protect your children from quad bike injuries”

A visitor made some interesting comments on this post and revealed that the threats to safety are not limited to SA, but are also the topic of much discussion in the UK. I would like to quote”

“This is such a hot topic right now, not just in ZA but also in the UK. Here are a few concerns we addressed in a post to a Quad Bike Magazine just a few months ago.

Firstly, there should be a law introduced whereby the child cannot ride one of these without a supervising adult - no excuses! Also, should the Quad Bike or ATV be taken onto a public area, the Police to have the power to remove the machine and crush it. Thirdly, and here is the big one - stop the manufacturers from putting flashing signal indicators, lights and brake lights on them as standard

Why? Because kids think that because they are fit for the road, that they can be used on the road. Also, should they use them on a public highway or land without consent, that the guardian is then liable under the law for a heavy fine.

Those were our issue's - but we went one deeper than that, and suggested that there be a specific test to ride on of these machine - because as the law stands right now, anyone over 17 can ride one on a car licence - and let us be frank, they handle nor drive like a car!!

Quad Bikes and ATVs need to be governed properly - there are far too many fatalities because of people who just don't understand them!”

Much more attention is required to the prevention of accidents. But what do we do about the safety of the bike?

Quad Bike Insurance / ATV Insurance

Quad bikes to be operated safely at speed require specialised driving techniques. I recently shared some thoughts with Leander Pienaar, owner of JetSport and a former winner of the Roof of Africa racing event, about the skills and preparation required before riding these vehicles at speed. Even with the best training accidents may happen  - and the owner will need to protect against the potential financial harm!

It is important to protect the quad bike with effective quad bike insurance tailor made for these vehicles. I would like to share advice from the Arrive Alive website:

Specialist Insurers / Unique characteristics of the Quad Bikes/ATV’s

Quad Bikes/ ATV’s are specialized vehicles and they differ vastly in engine size and type of use. Quad bikes can have either manual or automatic transmission, and steering is done via a set of handlebars. The engines are similar to those of a motorbike, typically ranging from 50 to 1000cc.

Today's bikes fall into two broad categories: "sport" ATVs are two-wheel drive and capable of speeds of up to 120kph; while four-wheel-drive utility vehicles are primarily designed to handle rough terrain and have a top speed of around 100kph.

The type of coverage you need for your quad bike depends on the type of riding you do. Types of quad insurance include insurance for leisure quads, sports quads, utility quads, ATV quads, and dune buggies. There is even special insurance available for competitive riding.

Not all insurers have the expertise to provide specialised insurance for quad bikes. Many motorcycle insurance companies who offer quad bikes insurance don't appreciate the different needs of quad bike owners and the multiple ways in which quad bikes differ from motorcycles. The more caution and responsible the way they are used, the lower the accident risk.

There are however insurers who specialize in quad bike/ ATV insurance, and who have insurance products specifically designed for quad bikes. We would like to provide information to emphasize why special attention is required when considering quad bike insurance.

What is insured under Quad Bike Insurance?

Quad bike insurance can provide the following cover:

* Full Comprehensive cover, while being used off road. This is damage from theft, fire, vandalism or any other covered peril

* Insurance cover for fire and theft

* Accidental/ collision damage - Damage to your quad bike from a collision with another ATV, rocks, trees and other obstacles

* Third party insurance

* Cover for race track use (subject to prior notice and some conditions)

* Breakdown cover for the costs associated with towing if necessary

* Road side assistance cover can include services such as battery jump-starting, tire changing, and locksmith services.

* Cover for Fire Extinguishing charges

* Cover for cross-border use, where cover is extended Cover is extended outside of South Africa to Namibia, Lesotho, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Swaziland and Botswana.

Extra Options available with Quad Bike /ATV Insurance

It is worthwhile to consider and enquire about some extra options available, such as

* Emergency Medical Evacuation service

* Trauma Assistance

* Optional personal injury cover

* Optional cover for your helmet and all protective clothing up to a specific value.

Questions for your Quad Bike / ATV Insurer

We would like to advise that you ask the insurer a few questions as well. These could include:

* Does my insurance cover riders of all ages?

* Does my policy cover more than one individual?

* Are the modifications and customisations to my bike also covered and has this been specified?

* Am I covered outside of South Africa?

Also view:

Quad Bike Insurance and Accidents

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