netangel

By netangel

21 January 2008 12:30

Do we need extra insurance to take our car abroad?

Yours Expert Answer

Yours Money Expert

By Yours Money Expert

Individual insurance companies make up their own rules - and these rules change!

All UK car policies automatically apply while the car is being used in other EC countries but it only provides basic third party cover. Even a comprehensive policy may only provide third party cover while you are out of the UK, so you will be covered for any damage or injury you cause, but you will have no claim for your own
repairs. This is the general rule, but it is complicated further because some comprehensive policies do automatically provide full cover for EC countries.

So before taking your car abroad you should contact your insurance broker or insurance company and ask their advice.

It is unlikely you will be issued with an old style Green Card, but you do need your company's confirmation that your full cover exists. Be prepared for the fact that some insurance companies will charge an extra premium. 

Pack your UK insurance certificate, your driving licence and, for good measure, your vehicle registration document in your bag.

It would also be wise to see if your car policy provides any breakdown cover for EC countries. A breakdown can be almost as inconvenient as an accident. If your insurance company doesn't provide such cover, even for an extra premium, you can buy the cover from a motoring organisation. Compare quotes from the market leaders AA and RAC.
 

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