Does Your UK Car Insurance Cover You For Driving In Europe?
Most UK car insurance policies provide some level of cover for driving in Europe, but the extent of that cover can vary depending on your insurer and the type of policy you have. In many cases, UK drivers are automatically given third-party cover when driving in Europe, which is the minimum legal requirement for driving abroad.
However, if you want the same level of cover that you have in the UK (for example, fully comprehensive), you may need to speak to your insurer to extend your policy. Some insurance providers automatically offer comprehensive cover in Europe for a limited number of days each year, whilst others may charge an additional premium for this.
It’s pretty well imperative to check with your insurer to look for out exactly what cover is included and whether you need to purchase extra protection for your trip.
How Long Can You Drive In Europe On Your UK Insurance?
Another factor that has changed since Brexit is the length of time UK drivers can spend driving in Europe on their UK car insurance. Many insurance policies include a limit on how many days per year you are covered to drive in Europe.
This limit varies by insurer but is typically between 30 and 90 days within a policy year. If you plan on taking an extended trip or spending a significant amount of time in Europe, it’s typically thought of as advisable to check with your insurer to make sure you’re covered for the duration of your stay. Some providers may offer the option to extend the number of days for an additional cost.
If you exceed the limit set by your policy, you could look for yourself driving without valid insurance, which could have serious legal and financial consequences in the event of an accident.
What Documents Do You Need To Drive In Europe Post-Brexit?
Whilst you may no longer need a Green Card to drive in most European countries, there are still several important documents that you must carry with you to ensure that you are driving legally. Being prepared with the right documentation can help you avoid delays and potential fines whilst travelling.
Here are the typically the most beneficial choice documents you’ll need when driving in Europe:
- Driving licence: You might need your full, valid UK driving licence. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required for most EU and EEA countries, but it may be necessary for other destinations, so check before you travel.
- Proof of insurance: Whilst you may not need a Green Card, it’s still advisable to carry proof of your UK car insurance in case you are stopped by authorities. A printed copy of your insurance certificate should suffice.
- V5C logbook: The V5C document, also known as your car’s logbook, proves that you are the registered owner of the vehicle. You must carry this with you when driving abroad.
- MOT certificate: If your vehicle is more than three years old, ensure that you have a valid MOT certificate to show that your car is roadworthy.
Having these documents readily available could help ensure that you comply with local laws and avoid any unnecessary issues whilst driving abroad.
What Happens If You Have An Accident Whilst Driving In Europe?
No one wants to think about being involved in an accident whilst driving abroad, but it’s important to know what steps to take if the worst happens. The first thing to do is stay calm and follow a few basic steps to ensure that you’re protected.
Here’s what you should do if you have an accident whilst driving in Europe:
- Contact the local authorities: In most European countries, you are required to report any accident to the police. Even if the accident is minor, it’s a good idea to get a police report, as this may be important when filing an insurance claim.
- Exchange details: Make sure to exchange names, contact information, and insurance details with the other driver. Take photographs of the accident scene and any damage to the vehicles.
- Contact your insurer: Notify your UK insurance provider as soon as possible to report the accident. Your insurer could guide you through the claims process and let you know what steps to take next.
It’s also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the specific driving laws and accident reporting procedures of the country you’re visiting, as these can vary.
Can You Use Your No-Claims Discount For Driving In Europe?
Your no-claims discount (NCD) is an important part of your car insurance in the UK, as it can help reduce the cost of your premium. If you make a claim whilst driving in Europe, it’s important to understand how this might affect your NCD.
If you’re involved in an accident whilst driving in Europe and need to make a claim on your UK insurance policy, it’s likely that this could impact your no-claims discount in the same way as if the accident had occurred in the UK. This means that unless you have NCD protection, your discount may be reduced or lost entirely after making a claim.
It’s a good idea to check with your insurer whether your NCD is protected before embarking on your European trip, especially if you’re concerned about losing the discount in the event of an accident.
How Has Brexit Affected Travel Insurance And European Breakdown Cover?
In addition to your car insurance, it’s important to consider whether you have the right travel insurance and breakdown cover in place for driving in Europe. Since Brexit, travel insurance requirements have changed, particularly regarding healthcare.
- Travel insurance: It’s now more important than ever to ensure that your travel insurance provides adequate healthcare cover whilst you’re in Europe. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is still valid in the EU for now, but once it expires, you’ll need a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or suitable travel insurance.
- Breakdown cover: Having breakdown cover that extends to Europe is really important for peace of mind whilst driving abroad. If your car breaks down whilst in Europe, your UK breakdown cover may not automatically apply, so check with your provider and consider purchasing European breakdown cover if needed.
What Are The Costs Of Driving In Europe Post-Brexit?
Whilst Brexit has brought some changes to driving in Europe, the good news is that many of the costs involved have remained largely the same. However, there are a few new expenses that UK drivers should be aware of when planning a trip to Europe.
Potential costs include:
- Tolls and charges: Some European countries require you to pay tolls for using certain roads, tunnels, and bridges. Be sure to research tolls in the countries you’ll be driving through to avoid unexpected charges.
- International driving permits (IDPs): Whilst IDPs aren’t necessary for most EU countries, some non-EU countries may require one. An IDP costs £5.50 and can be obtained from the Post Office.
- Additional insurance cover: If your UK insurance policy only provides third-party cover in Europe, you may want to pay for an upgrade to comprehensive cover for added protection.
Planning ahead for these costs can help ensure a smooth and worry-free trip when driving in Europe.
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