Dipesh Radia, Chief Commercial Officer at Momentum Insure

Improved driver behaviour key to reducing road accident fatalities and reducing insurance premiums

Each year thousands of people lose their lives on South Africa’s roads. National Transport Month, which is traditionally recognised in October each year, is a time to reflect on road safety statistics, infrastructure challenges, and the urgent need to reduce the devastating human and economic cost of accidents.

Transport Minister, Barbara Creecy has been quoted as saying that the majority of road crashes are the result of human error including speeding, reckless driving, fatigue, drunk driving and distraction.

“If driver behaviour is the primary cause of the high road fatality rate, then a behaviour change can also be the solution,” says Dipesh Radia, Chief Commercial Officer at Momentum Insure. “The ability to change the narrative resides with each one of us. Improved road safety is not only the responsibility of law enforcement but starts with a more intentional approach to safety from every driver, passenger and pedestrian.”

Seemingly small decisions like buckling up, driving within the speed limit, obeying the rules of the road, not driving while intoxicated and – for pedestrians – only crossing the road after checking for oncoming traffic, can make the difference between arriving safely at your destination, or losing your life, adds Radia.

Technological innovations in new cars are playing an increasingly more significant role in improving safety through crash avoidance technologies and advanced driver assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking, lane assist, and driver monitoring to detect driver fatigue. These new features are also helping drivers to adhere to the speed limit, minimise blind spots and reduce distraction.

However, as Radia points out, even the most advanced technologies can’t replace responsible decision-making. “While these are all very useful tools, it’s ultimately up to each of us to slow down, focus and be more mindful of safety while on the road. The consequences of not paying sufficient attention on the road or making an avoidable mistake can be devastating. While insurance can cover the cost of vehicle repairs or replacement, there is no compensation for a life lost.”

Within the short-term insurance landscape there is a growing shift away from reactive cover after a bad event to a system of behaviour-led saving with insurers, including Momentum Insure, proactively rewarding their clients for driving safer.

Traditionally, vehicle insurance premiums are being calculated using specific demographic risk factors: where you live, what you drive, and how old you are. While these factors matter, they may not be able to account for your day-to-day behaviour.

A modern insurer's role is not just to quantify this risk, but to help you actively mitigate it with better driving behaviours, and rewarding you driving safer.

National Transport Month is an opportune time to move the insurance conversation forward. It’s time to stop accepting the reactive status quo and choose an insurer who rewards your efforts to be safe. When drivers take responsibility for the way they drive, they ultimately contribute to a safer road environment for everyone.

‍