Car insurance is one of life’s necessary evils. All motorists know they are under a legal obligation to take out car insurance to cover them in the event they are involved in an accident. Few drivers, however, are aware of the terms of their policy and, more importantly, what could invalidate their policy.
When taking out car insurance, the aim is usually to obtain the most suitable cover for the lowest price possible. The majority of car users will obtain their insurance online, through a comparison website, and will look to deal with matters as quickly as possible.
In the process of taking out the policy, the policy holder will be asked to agree to various terms and conditions before completing the process. By ticking the box confirming agreement, there is a presumption these have been read.
Motorists rarely give a second thought to the terms of their policy, or what they are covered for, unless they are unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident. Few motorists actually realise if they are involved in an accident, and found to be in breach of the terms and conditions, this can result in their policy being invalidated by their insurer. If the policy is invalid, the driver becomes liable for the repair bills for their vehicle.
In a recent survey, carried out by Cuvva, it was found that:
- 43% of drivers were not aware that eating while driving could invalidate their policy;
- 18% were not aware that they should not be driving with their pet in the front seat of the vehicle; and
- 16% of drivers did not know that driving while wearing flip-flops could invalidate their policy.
These figures highlight the need for greater transparency in the insurance industry to ensure drivers are aware of the agreements they are entering into and to give them a better chance of compliance. The terms of insurance policies should be delivered in a way which is clear, concise and accessible to policy holders.
Blog by Eilish Lindsay, Glasgow Solicitor
