Many motorists assume that once they have an insurance certificate on their windscreen, they are fully covered. But that is not always the case. The safest thing you can do is verify that your motor insurance is active and valid. You can do this easily by dialling *352# and following the prompts, or by using the Bima Yangu App.

Since digital motor insurance certificates were introduced in 2020, it has become much easier for Kenyans to receive and carry proof of insurance. However, some dishonest people have found ways to tamper with the certificates, leaving unsuspecting motorists with fake, cancelled, or invalid cover.

That is why the verification system is so important. By checking through *352# or the Bima Yangu App, you can confirm whether your certificate is active, expired, cancelled, or invalid. If it shows as invalid or cancelled, it means you are driving without proper insurance cover, even if you were issued with a certificate.

Motor insurance is mandatory in Kenya. Under the law, every vehicle on the road must have at least third-party insurance. Driving without valid insurance is an offence and can lead to a fine of up to Ksh10,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.

Beyond the legal risk, the financial consequences can be devastating. Imagine being involved in an accident and then discovering that your insurance is not valid. You could be forced to pay for damage to your own car, another person’s vehicle, damaged property, and even medical bills for injuries. That kind of cost can place enormous pressure on you and your family.

The good news is that you do not have to wait until you are stopped on the road or involved in an accident to find out your cover is not valid. A quick check can save you stress, money, and serious inconvenience. Verifying your insurance should be part of your routine, just like servicing your car.

Before you drive, take a minute to check. Dial *352# or use the Bima Yangu App and make sure your motor insurance is truly valid.