Car insurance: The six unexpected mistakes that could invalidate your policy
DRIVERS are being warned of potential mistakes that could lead them to have their car insurance invalidated.
Morning Live: Expert shares tips on car insurance
As of 2021, there are 31.7 million licenced cars on UK roads, with drivers risking a fixed penalty fine of £3000 and six penalty points if they are caught without car insurance. Even some basic activities which seem harmless can lead to insurance being invalidated, with the following six being some of the most unexpected.
Charging friends for a lift
Drivers are advised to read the small print of their policy to see if it excludes “car sharing”.
If motorists charge their friends for petrol money on regular lifts, this may come under “taxi hire service”.
This could void drivers’ policy and could land them with a £2,500 fine.
Airfield parking
Parking close to an airfield or an airport could also invalidate car insurance.
Many companies exclude damage caused by pressure waves from aircraft travelling at or above the speed of sound.
Drivers should always park at a designated airport car park or get a shuttle service.
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Driving in slippers
Wearing inappropriate footwear to drive in, such as slippers, flip-flops and even high heels could be seen as hampering the ability to drive safely.
Whilst it is not strictly illegal to drive in flip flops or slippers, drivers should make sure they have suitable footwear just in case an insurance claim needs to be made after the journey.
Rule 97 of the Highway Code states that the footwear and clothing that you choose to wear whilst driving must not prevent you from using the controls in the correct manner.
Too many car air fresheners
Obstruction of the windscreen can be due to frost, snow and even air fresheners hanging from the rear-view mirror.
Anything that will obstruct the driver's view of the road or be a distraction whilst driving is a bad idea, not only due to safety but it can also invalidate insurance if there is an accident.
Drivers should keep the windscreen clear at all times to avoid a potential on-the-spot £60 fine.
Parking on the street
Many car owners are being caught out by parking on the street rather than on their drive or in their garage, which they initially stated in their insurance policy.
Insurers should be informed where drivers keep their car overnight and update this if they move house as it will affect their premium.
Parking off the street is also advised to protect against potential car thefts.
Window tinting
Any customisation or modification that drivers decide to do to their vehicle will affect the car insurance premium.
Drivers may add tinted windows for aesthetic purposes or to improve security.
It is always wise for drivers to inform their insurance company about any cosmetic changes.