SAFETY
Roadside assistance: What do you need to know on the roads? By Adv. Johan Jonck, Arrive Alive
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oadside assistance has become a competitive business with many different providers offering a variety of services. Many motorists may not be aware of the assistance they can get or that they are in fact covered to enjoy some of the basic benefits.
Roadside assistance services could include: • •
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Investigating and repairing the problem causing the breakdown. Checking why the battery does not start the vehicle and helping to jump-start the vehicle. Helping to change a flat tyre or damaged tyre. If there is no spare tyre the vehicle may be towed. Towing a vehicle after electrical or mechanical breakdown to the nearest approved dealer or competent repairer. Towing a vehicle involved in a crash away from the scene of the crash. Providing a small amount of fuel when a vehicle runs out of fuel. Obtaining the service of a locksmith to open the vehicle and retrieve the keys when keys are locked inside or getting replacement keys. Safe storage of the vehicle. Vehicle repatriation. Extrication and winching the vehicle. An armed security guard may be provided to stay with the motorists or vehicle until it can be safely towed away for storage and repair.
June - August 2022 • rovesa.co.za | 19
