Every vehicle on South African roads must be in a roadworthy condition. All buses, taxis and trucks must undergo a roadworthy test annually and the owners will not be able to renew their licenses without the presentation of a valid roadworthy certificate.

Furthermore, roadworthiness is a pre-requisite for taking out car insurance. In your policy documents it is clearly stated that your insurance company are not obliged to meet any of your insurance claims should your car not be roadworthy at the time of an accident.

Here are a few guidelines to check whether your vehicle is roadworthy :

Electrical system. Check for loose or exposed wiring and that all battery clamps are there. Headlights must focus in the right direction; lenses should not be cracked all lamps should be undamaged, properly secured and capable of being lighted at all times.

Vehicle identification. The vehicle’s engine and chassis numbers should coincide with the numbers on the vehicle registration certificate. Should this not be the case, the vehicle will have to be sent for a police clearance.

The chassis and under-carriage rust. Any weakness, such as rust, in the structure of the chassis is a danger to the whole vehicle and would deem the vehicle unroadworthy.

Wheels. Inspect your wheels to see if the tread is at least 1mm deep on the entire tyre surface. Check your spare tyre for the same requirements.

Brakes. Checking the brakes of your vehicle, both the front and rear disc pads. Ensure that the brake disc is not badly grooved or concaved. The best method is to skim the brake disc facings before replacing the disc pads.

Door and handles. Doors should be able to open and close easily, from the inside and the outside. Inner door panels should not have any sharp edges that could cause injury.

Windows. Your windows should be fitted with safety glass and all windows should be able to open and close easily.

Safety belts. Seat belts must fasten and release with ease, and the belt should not be torn, frayed or damaged in any way. The belt should have the SABS approval mark or another acceptable national or international approval mark.

Seats. Seats should be firmly secured and padding material and springs should not be exposed.

Fuel cap. Ensure you have a fuel cap that works effectively.

Body rust. Corroded or sharp edges that can cause injury to pedestrians or cyclists, or damage to other vehicles must be fixed before going for a roadworthy test.

Speak to an Indwe broker today about the right car insurance for you. Your broker will advise you on the requirements needed to comply with the law and with the insurance requirements. Visit www.indwerisk.co.za or call 0860 13 13 14.