• By Raymond Momanyi

When Dashboard Warnings Become Death Traps: The Truth About Negligence and Insurance Claims

Cars today are basically computers on wheels. They don’t just move you from point A to B — they monitor themselves, warn you, and sometimes even protect you from yourself. That’s why when a little light flashes on your dashboard — ABS, Handbrake, Engine Check — it’s not a suggestion, it’s a warning.

But here’s the reality on Kenyan roads: many drivers see that light, shrug, and keep going. A few kilometers later? Brakes fail. Wheels lock. The car veers out of control. Suddenly, lives are lost, passengers are injured, and vehicles are written off.

🚨 Was the Accident Avoidable?

Yes.
 The car literally spoke before disaster. Ignoring it means the accident was preventable.

⚖️ Was the Driver Negligent?

Yes.
 If you know your brakes are compromised and you keep driving, you’ve failed your duty of care — both to yourself and other road users.

🛑 Does the Driver Bear Responsibility?

Absolutely. Responsibility doesn’t disappear because the terrain was rough or signage was poor. If your car gave you an early alert and you ignored it, you carry the blame.

📝 The Claim Twist: Lies vs Insurance Reality

Here’s where things get murky. Many drivers, when filling claim forms, will twist the truth. Instead of admitting dashboard lights were on, they blame the accident on:

• Poor road signage.
• Bad weather.
• Sudden terrain change.

But insurance companies aren’t naïve. Investigators will check:

• Garage reports.
• Police abstracts.
• Witness statements.
• Even diagnostic data from the vehicle’s computer.

🔍 Outcome?

• Own Damage (your car): Chances of payout are almost zero. Why? Because you breached policy terms — vehicles must be kept in a roadworthy condition.
• Third-Party Injuries/Damages: Likely payable — but later, the insurer can recover the money from the driver. The law prioritizes protecting innocent victims.

👮 How Will Police Record the Accident?

Police may write:

• Self-involving accident due to brake failure if the driver claims sudden loss of brakes.
• Or, if proven negligent, note: driver ignored mechanical defect warnings.

Either way, your statement matters — and dishonesty can complicate both court and insurance processes.

🚗 The Bigger Lesson for Kenyan Drivers

At Imana Insurance Agency Kenya Ltd, we’ve seen this story play out too many times. The truth is simple:

• Don’t ignore dashboard lights.
• Don’t lie on claim forms.
• Don’t drive a car that isn’t roadworthy.

Because at the end of the day, insurance is a partnership. You do your part — maintain your vehicle and drive responsibly — and the insurer does theirs when genuine risk strikes.

✅ Insurance Wisdom

Negligence doesn’t just void your cover; it can cost lives. The next time that ABS or Handbrake sign stays on while driving, don’t gamble. Stop, check, fix. Protect your life, protect others, and protect your claim.

At Imana Insurance Agency Kenya Ltd, we help drivers across Kenya and East Africa not just buy insurance, but understand it. Because a policy isn’t just paper — it’s peace of mind, if you play your part.

📞 Call/WhatsApp: +254 796 209 402 | 0745 218 460
 🌐 Visit: www.imana.co.ke | www.mykava.co.ke

📍 4th Floor, Krishna Centre, Woodvale Grove, Westlands

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