When choosing a policy, it is important to get quotes from several insurers and compare:

• what each policy covers and the exclusions and amount of any excess. any discounts offered
• any discounts offered

• the no claims bonus and how much the discounts are worth each year if you don't claim on your policy
• any policy restrictions, for example, only named drivers are covered

When asked you must give your insurer as much information as you can about yourself and your vehicle. They are likely to ask about:

• driving convictions
• accidents
• medical conditions which could affect your driving

This information will affect your premium and whether your insurer pays out on a claim.

An insurance policy should be in the main driver's name. An insurer can refuse to pay out if you take out insurance in your name because it's cheaper, then let someone else, for example a younger driver, drive most of the time.
When asked you must tell your insurer at once about any change in your circumstances, such as a change of address or job.

If you buy a vehicle on finance it usually has to be insured in your name.

Most policies run for a year and your insurer doesn't have to send a renewal notice, although most do.

When you take out or renew a policy you will get a cover note which is valid for up to 30 days while the policy documents are sent to you. It is an offence to drive without a policy or cover note.

Make sure you check out the terms and conditions when you sign up for insurance. With some companies you could be agreeing to have the policy automatically renewed after a year. This could include a cancellation fee if you cancel after the renewal.

The law says that you must normally have at least third party motor insurance if you drive or own a vehicle. You must also have insurance if you leave it parked on the street, on your driveway or in your garage.

The police can check on the spot if your vehicle is insured using the Motor Insurance Database. If it isn't they can seize it immediately, even if you then arrange insurance at the roadside. You'll have to produce a certificate of insurance and pay charges to get your vehicle back. If you don't, the police can dispose of your car 14 days later. If they sell it, you can claim money back from the sale.

More information, including:-

Making a claim if you're in an accident
Being involved in a road accident abroad
When the accident wasn't your fault
Making a claim if your car or its contents are stolen
When you don't need car insurance

can be found on -
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/insurance/types-of-insurance/vehicle-insurance/

or you can call our Local Enquiry line and speak to one of our Advisers.

Our Local Enquiry Line is 01509 649605 and is open Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays 9.30am-3.00pm. More details about us can be found on our website https://www.charnwoodcab.org.uk/