Invalidating Your Car Insurance
If you want to drive legally anywhere in the world you need car insurance. Car insurance covers you and the other party financially should an accident occur. It does not stop crashes nor accidents from happening, but you won’t be expected to cover your pocket losses if something goes wrong.
Even though insurance can sometimes be a little confusing, it’s there to give us total peace of mind.
Could You be Invalidating Your Car Insurance?
However, did you know that you could be inadvertently invalidating your coverage? Even the insignificant habits can land you in hot water if you8r insurance becomes invalid.
Not parking your car where you say you are
We all know that parking your car in the garage or on the driveway can help reduce your premiums. However, if your vehicle is lost or damaged overnight in a different postcode to the one you’ve previously stated, then you could be invalidating your cover.
Here are some examples of how this could occur
- You work night shifts several miles away, and the car is stolen.
- You stay at grandma’s house temporarily, and someone crashed into the parked car overnight.
Always keep your insurer informed where your car is likely to be parked overnight. Advising them will keep your cover valid and your asset protected!
Not keeping your keys safe
If you leave your keys in the car ignition overnight, theft of the car is likely. Or you went into the store and left the car keys in the door. We’ve all done it, but it means you’re invalidating your insurance.
When these kinds of mistakes catch up to you, it proves to your insurer that you’re not careful enough. So, when the inevitable does happen, you often won’t be covered.
Always try to keep your keys safe, and when they’re not in use, keep them hidden. Don’t ever store them or the spare set in your vehicle.
Being a reckless driver
Speeding, driving while intoxicated, using your phone behind the wheel, if you cause an accident or get caught up in one due to reckless driving, then you’ll be left high and dry without any insurance. Not only that, but you’ll probably be looking at criminal charges too.
Not informing your insurer of modifications
Many young drivers like the idea of modifying their vehicles. They will add bigger wheels, lower suspensions, high-performance engines, even spoilers, and tinted windows.
All these changes look great if you’re into that kind of thing, but if you fail to notify your insurance provider of the changes you’ve made to your vehicle, then you won’t be insured.
If you’re thinking of modifying your vehicle in any way, or you’re unsure if the changes you’re making have to be mentioned, speak to your provider! They’ll be happy to advise you.
How to avoid invalidating your car insurance
By avoiding these scenarios, you will be on your way to keeping your insurance valid. To make sure you are complying with your insurance, make sure to read your policy book.