Understanding Professional Driving Permits: Crucial Information for Policyholders
At De Wet De Villiers Brokers, we prioritise the seamless and fair resolution of claims for our valued clients. Understanding and complying with the requirements outlined in policy conditions is vital to ensure a smooth claims process.
Hollard has notified us that they have recently received inquiries and disputes regarding Professional Driving Permits (PrDP) and their significance. In collaboration with Hollard, we aim to shed light on this topic, providing you with regulatory insights and the implications related to PrDPs.
Regulatory Requirements and Insurance Implications:
PrDP Application Criteria:
- Applicants must possess a valid driver's license corresponding to the type of PrDP they are applying for.
- PrDPs are issued for specific categories of motor vehicles, including goods vehicles, breakdown vehicles, buses, minibuses, and vehicles transporting paying passengers.
- The owner, operator, or person in control of these vehicles must not employ or allow anyone without a valid PrDP to drive them. PrDPs are "person-specific" and cannot be transferred.
- Cancelled or suspended PrDPs become invalid, irrespective of their expiration dates.
- An expired PrDP remains valid for up to four months if the holder has applied for a new one before the expiration date, without license or PrDP suspensions, and with no notification of refusal.
Verifying PrDP Validity:
- To confirm the validity of South African PrDPs, refer to TransUnion.
- For foreign PrDPs, use the "Check your driver" service by sending an email to leigh@check-your-driver.co.za. Note that fees may apply for this verification service.
Hollard’s Claims Approach:
Hollard Insurance adheres to a strict policy regarding PrDP requirements and claim settlements:
- Possession of a valid PrDP is a prerequisite for insurance coverage, as it involves risk-based factors such as medical certification, criminal clearances, and a valid driver's license.
- Generally, unless exceptional circumstances exist or policy wording states otherwise, Hollard rejects claims when the owner, operator, or anyone in control of the insured vehicle, including the incident driver, lacks a valid PrDP.
- While Hollard typically requires evidence of prejudice or materiality to reject a claim, the absence of the correct driver's license is considered a significant breach of public safety, similar to driving under the influence of alcohol.
- Hollard upholds public policy by not rewarding policyholders in such cases, regardless of the materiality principle. This applies only when the incident leading to the claim occurs while the insured vehicle is in operation.
- However, if the incident occurs within four months after the PrDP's expiration, Hollard may accept a claim based on the overall merits of the case and the justifiability of the incident driver's need to operate the insured vehicle.
Understanding the requirements and implications of Professional Driving Permits (PrDPs) is essential for us, as well as our policyholders. Compliance with these regulations ensures a seamless and fair claims outcome. By working closely with Hollard, we aim to provide clarity on PrDP-related matters and assist you in navigating the complexities of insurance coverage.
For further information, or to verify PrDP validity, please refer to the regulatory sources mentioned in this article. At De Wet De Villiers Brokers, we remain committed to providing exceptional service and empowering you with the knowledge to make informed decisions. You are welcome to contact us if you have any questions in this regard. We look forward to being of assistance.
