Uswitch advises drivers on how to keep their car insurance valid

It’s been reported that SNP minister Humza Yousaf was caught without the correct car insurance – after splitting from his wife and transferring ownership of the couple’s car which meant he was no longer the main policy holder. In response, Rod Jones, insurance expert at Uswitch.com advises drivers how to avoid the common pitfalls that can invalidate your insurance: “Mr Yousaf’s mistake was an easy one to make and, with 42% of marriages now said to end in divorce, many others could fall foul to the same issue.

“The reality is that – whether it’s moving house or changing job – our personal circumstances change all the time and our first thought is not always to update our insurer. However, not doing so risks invalidating your insurance and possibly points on your licence or a fine.”

The following tips can help drivers swerve similar mistakes:

1. Make sure you’re covered

As Mr Yousaf’s mix-up has demonstrated, you should always check the terms of your insurance if your circumstances, vehicle or insurance policy changes to ensure you are still fully insured to drive your own vehicle or any other.

Factors such as transfer of ownership of vehicles or changing the main policy holder on a vehicle may affect the level of cover you have.

1. Keep your insurer informed

It’s your duty to inform your insurer when circumstances change, as your premium may need to be adjusted accordingly. It’s easy to forget, but if you fail to inform your insurer your insurance may be invalidated, claims may be rejected and you may be caught unawares driving without cover.

This includes moving house, changing careers, how you use your car (for work, commuting or social), if you start to keep your car in a different place during the day or overnight or change your registration plate.

1. Declare all modifications

Most features added to the car after manufacture are deemed to be modifications, from engine upgrades to paintwork and stickers. If you fail to declare any modifications made to the car after your initial insurance application, your cover will not be valid.

1. Don’t make it easy for thieves

Most comprehensive insurance policies will cover you for theft of your vehicle or items inside it, but not if they believe your negligence has led to the theft. If you’ve left valuables in plain sight, such as on the passenger seat, or left your keys in the ignition while defrosting the windscreen, the insurer may not pay out on your claim.

1. Report all accidents

With no claims discounts offering such huge reductions on yearly premiums, most people are reluctant to claim in the event of a minor incident. However, you are required to inform your insurer of an accident even if you’re not looking to make a claim. If you don’t, you might not be able to claim for any damage to your vehicle in the future.

1. Stay within the mileage that you disclosed to your insurer

They know it’s only a rough estimation, but if you do go significantly over your estimated mileage you could see your insurance invalidated. So, if you think your driving habits are about to change – for example if you get a new job further away – you need to inform your insurer.

Find out how you could save over £1,000 a year with Uswitch here.