Press Releases from Be Wiser

Over A Million Brits Risk Driving Abroad Without Proper Insurance

Over 1 Million Brits Risk Driving Abroad Without Proper Insurance

Many British motorists could find themselves driving into trouble this summer, as thousands are unaware that they could be driving without sufficient driving insurance cover when abroad.

According to recent statistics, a huge 38% of the 2 million UK motorists that head abroad each year do not know if they are comprehensively insured when driving on the Continent, while a further 22% believe they have the same level of cover as in the UK – but readily admit they have never checked this with their insurance provider.

Mark Bower-Dyke, Chairman of Be Wiser Insurance said,

“Drivers are paying to have top level cover in the UK and believe they will receive the same kind of protection when they are abroad – this is not the case”.

“What most motorists don’t realise is that the level of cover varies from country to country, meaning you could be covered for one thing in France, but as soon as you cross the border into Spain, for example, you lose that security…”

All insurance policies cover driving within the EC, but drivers only receive the minimum protection that the country you are in legally requires. This means that as soon as motorists leave the UK their cover could drop from fully comprehensive to third party only, leaving them to foot the bill if the worst was to happen.

Bower-Dyke went on to say,

“It is absolutely essential that you contact your insurer before you take the car abroad – I cannot emphasise this enough. In doing this they can update the policy so that you will receive the same cover that you would in the UK - most do this free of charge.”

With many aspects of cover differing from insurer to insurer, most motorists don’t know how long they are covered for when abroad, as it can range from zero days to a full year depending on the type of policy. Checking with the insurer first is the safest bet, as travellers may need to update their Green Card cover at an additional cost to extend their covered driving period.

“A ‘Green Card’ is an internationally recognised document that proves your vehicle meets the minimum car insurance requirement for driving through Europe. Most insurers offer these at a charge, so check with them to see if they can offer you one.”

Failing to do this, motorists could be personally liable for any damage caused to their car and to any other vehicle if they are involved in an accident. They could also end up picking up the tab in the event of damage caused by fire or if their car is stolen. The authorities in some EU countries are permitted to hand out on-the-spot fines, resulting in the motorist being driven to the nearest cash point to withdraw the money to pay the penalty.”

Bower-Dyke finished by saying,

“We understand that it’s an easy thing to forget when preparing for a holiday, but your summer could be completely marred if you are in a crash, break down or even have your vehicle stolen – but having to foot the bill for these things would be awful.”

So before you travel abroad, check with your policy provider to see what kind of cover you have before you set off on your trip. It could save you a lot of money and one big headache if you’re involved in an accident.

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