Majority of motorists unsure if insurance policy covers them overseas
While 33% of people knew their policy did cover them if venturing out of the country by car and 10% claimed they did not have insurance for such a journey, the remainder of the 402 participants responded “unknown” when posed the question: “does you motor insurance cover you whilst driving abroad?”.
Commenting on the findings, Chris Thornton, Auto Windscreens’ managing director, said: ‘While it might be that many motorists are not concerned if their policy covers them for overseas holidays as they have no plans to travel by car, a proportion of them are at risk from the potential of a ruined holiday should they be in need of assistance and find they do not have sufficient protection.’
Motorists are urged to check the “travelling abroad” section of their insurance policy before going away this summer.
While all UK vehicle insurance provides the minimum third party cover to drive in other European Union (EU) countries, theft or damage to a policyholder’s own vehicle may not be included. Even if a driver is insured fully comprehensive for UK driving, the same level of cover might not always apply overseas and time restrictions are worth confirming, with some providers reducing the level of cover for non-UK driving after around 30 to 45 days, although some others offer 90 days.
Outside of the EU, a Green Card should be carried to prove a policy meets the relevant country’s requirements and can be supplied by insurers upon request.
In the event of an accident, Auto Windscreens advises the driver to make contact with their insurer immediately and call the local police. As when driving in the UK, gather as much information as you can about the other driver (name, registration, vehicle make and model, contact information), take details from any witnesses and use your phone or camera to take pictures.
If you are only covered third party overseas, you may have to pay the full cost of any windscreen repair or glass replacement. If your policy does cover you, make contact with your insurer using the glass claims number provided. They will help organise any repairs with a local repairer, for example with a member of EAVAA, a group of automotive companies that provides quality repairs across Europe, of which Auto Windscreens is a member
The UK Government offers tips and advice for when travelling abroad by car and advises on some of the documentation you should take, including your driving licence, and items you need to bring on your trip. For example, you should carry a breathalyser in the car whilst driving in France.