Whether it is temporary or annual car insurance, drivers should have their details easily accessible and remain valid.
Here, we outline how you can check to see if your car insured, when it expires, and the risks of driving without it.
Car insurance
Car insurance is a contract between a provider and a driver that provides financial protection against damage and losses related to the vehicle.
By paying the premium, the insurance company will cover costs relating to collisions, accidents, theft and other incidents.
It is mandatory for all drivers to have valid car insurance.
Your premium will also protect you if you are hit by an uninsured driver, who doesn’t have the sufficient coverage in place.
Driving when uninsured
Driving without vehicle insurance on UK roads in illegal and can lead to serious penalties.
If you are caught by the police if you are behind the wheel of a vehicle without insurance, then you can could face an on the spot fine of £300 and an unlimited fine in court.
Offenders will also receive six point on their driving licence. Drivers who accumulate 12 points or more within three years will lead to a driving ban – and a criminal record.
Drivers could also have their vehicle seized by the police if caught without valid car insurance.
Even after the fines are paid, points are removed from the licence and the legal issues are resolved – offenders will face increased car insurance costs in the future.
How to check your car is insured
There are a few easy ways to check that you car insurance is valid and up to date.
First, visit askMID.com – the Motor Insurance Database. Here, you can check to see if your vehicle is insured or declared ‘off the road’ (SORN).
Enter your vehicle registration and declare you are the owner of the vehicle.
If you're involved in an accident, you can use the MID to check if the other person's car is insured. This comes with a fee of £10.
When it comes to car tax, you’ll need to check with GOV.UK and provide the same details.
What documents will you need to check your car insurance?
In order to check that your car insurance, you won’t need any documents – but just your car registration number.
When it comes to renewing your car insurance, you will need your driving licence, debit/credit card, and details of your previous insurance.
How do I check who my vehicle is insured with?
There are several ways to check that your car is insured. Here, we outline a few examples:
- Search your emails: By simply searching ‘car insurance’ or the name of your provider, you will likely find your details.
- Check your bank accounts: Your bank will keep records of your transactions and will show when you made your annual payment – and to who.
- Contact your car insurance provider: If you know the name of your provider, then call them and provide the necessary details
Remember, you must have valid, in-date car insurance in order to legally get behind the wheel.
When does my car insurance run out?
You’ll need to find your car insurance details, and your expiry date will be displayed within the pack you will be issued after agreeing to your contract.
It will also have all your personal details, that need to be correct in order for the premium to be valid.
If any of the details are incorrect, update them through the providers online portal, or calling the number on your insurance documents.
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