LNIG, Tracker Lesotho ink deal

MASERU – THE Lesotho National General insurance (LNIG), in collaboration with Tracker Lesotho, has made it possible for individual comprehensive motor insurance holders to enjoy maximum cover at no extra cost. The insurance plan now covers not only accidents but the majority of road mishaps too.

According to LNIG managing director, Ralitapole Letsoela, the plan initially only covered accidental damages, third party liability and car theft.
“The cover had several (shortcomings) in that there are numerous roadside mishaps that were not covered like mechanical problems if not related to an accident, emergency ambulance services, tow services and locking one’s keys inside the car,” Letsoela said.

He added that the firms have also dealt with a hurdle that clients have faced in the past, when clients had to arrange for the removal of their own vehicles from an accident scene to a mechanic.
“We are not introducing a new product. Rather, we are improving a product that had shortcomings,” Letsoela said, adding that services will be availed in both Lesotho and South Africa.
However due to lack of accessible road infrastructure in Lesotho, services can only be availed within a certain radius.

“In Maseru, Tracker will be able to provide services to those within a 50km radius from the town and in Mohale’s Hoek within a 15km radius. For lowlands, Tracker can only cover these districts from 15kms to a maximum of 50km radius from town,” Ralitapole said.
In highlands in Mokhotlong, Qacha’s Nek and Thaba-Tseka only those within a radius of 12km from town will be attended to.

“With time and as the road infrastructure improves, the distance to be covered will also be adjusted,” Ralitapole said.
He said clients can now call a toll free number 24/7 wherever they are and ask for assistance.

“Tracker will also call the nearest police station and we will also help arrange accommodation for the night for those who might have travelled over 100km from the owner’s home,” Ralitapole said.
The cover can only pay a maximum of M4 500 for two services a year. A maximum of M750 on services such as ambulance, accident tow and roadside assistance.
“If you had an accident and it costs more than M750 to get you to the nearest hospital then the client will have to top up,” Ralitapole said.

The cover, which is only available for individually owned vehicles and not commercial vehicles, was activated on October 1.

Lemohang Rakotsoane