The thought of having your car stolen is unsettling and traumatising. Being prepared for such an event is crucial to ensure that should the unforeseen happen, you and your loved ones know the drill, what to do and how to act.

Below are some approved guidelines to follow so that you stay prepared and respond effectively in the case of vehicle theft:

 

Stay prepared

Know the location of your nearest SAPS station, know your vehicle registration number (Consider saving it to your phone as a contact), and keep your tracking service provider details readily available. 

 

Notify authorities and service providers

Notify your tracking service provider as soon as possible after the incident, thereafter notify your broker or insurer and immediately report to SAPS and obtain a SAPS case number.

 

Send a lookout alert

Provide your vehicle details (area, registration number, make, model, and a photo) to your broker/insurer, community groups and local security companies to increase the chance of a quick recovery.

 

Collect information from witnesses

If possible, gather details from anyone who assisted you, such as mall security or bystanders, to provide additional information to authorities.

 

File a claim

Formally register a claim with your broker or insurer within the first 24 hours. a delayed claim registration runs the risk of being considered fraudulent which can slow down the claims and potential recovery process.

 

Deregister if unrecovered

If your vehicle is not recovered within 7 days, deregister it as stolen at the nearest licensing authority according to the National Road Traffic Act.

 

Notify if recovered

If your vehicle is recovered, inform your broker and insurer immediately. You may be required to assist your insurer or SAPS with identifying the vehicle and providing the necessary documentation for vehicle upliftment. 

 

Important documentation

For vehicle recovery, you need the following: 

* vehicle registration/deregistration documents 

* ID or proxy documents

 

No fees for towing/recovery

Government officials may not request payment for towing, clearance, or transportation of your vehicle. These services are provided for free.

 

Book a consultation to ensure that your vehicles are covered accurately.

Wyngaardt Brokers (Pty) Ltd is an Authorised Financial Services Provider (FSP 53138).