Coronavirus and your car insurance...
Wondering how coronavirus might affect your car insurance with us?
Here's what you need to know...
In these uncertain times, the knock on effect is impacting multiple areas of our everyday lives, one of which is the use of our cars. Whether you’re using yours more often in order to avoid public transport, or you now need to use your car for work, we support you wholly and will do everything we can to make sure that your car policy is one thing you can be certain about.
Please see our FAQ’s below where we may cover any questions you have. In the meantime, stay safe and please bear with us while we do all we can to support our customers and employees
How will coronavirus (COVID-19) affect your MOT?
The government has announced that vehicle owners will be granted a 6 month exemption from MOT testing from the 30 March 2020, which means you’ll be able to continue travelling to work if you’re a key worker, or to shop for necessities.
All cars, vans and motorcycles which are due an MOT test will be exempt from needing a test must still be kept in a roadworthy condition, and garages will remain open for essential repair work. Drivers can be prosecuted if driving unsafe vehicles. We will take this exemption into account, however MOT tests that were due before 30th March 2020 will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
It’s your responsibility to ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and not driven in an unsafe condition, and we may not be able to cover you if you’re in an accident due to poor maintenance of the car. For more information on this, you can keep up to date at GOV.uk
All cars, vans and motorcycles which are due an MOT test will be exempt from needing a test must still be kept in a roadworthy condition, and garages will remain open for essential repair work. Drivers can be prosecuted if driving unsafe vehicles. We will take this exemption into account, however MOT tests that were due before 30th March 2020 will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
It’s your responsibility to ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and not driven in an unsafe condition, and we may not be able to cover you if you’re in an accident due to poor maintenance of the car. For more information on this, you can keep up to date at GOV.uk
Car insurance FAQs
Will I still be able to make a claim?
Yes, we are honouring our existing customers across all of our products, so you will be able to make a claim or renew as normal. Bear in mind that our call centres are really busy at the moment, so please use our online services wherever you can.
I now need to use my car for work; will my car insurance be affected?
If you now need to use your car for work or are choosing to drive to work in order to avoid public transport due to social distancing, business use (class 1) will be the minimum class of use for all LV= Direct Motor policies with immediate effect and until further notice. There will be no charge for this increase in cover and it will be honoured should you need to claim.
Will I be able to get my car repaired during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak?
If you need to make a claim, we’ll do everything we can to keep you mobile during this difficult time. We’ll be able to arrange a repair for you as long as our repairers remain open and are able to source the parts needed for your vehicle.
What if my vehicle needs an MOT while I’m advised to stay at home?
All cars, vans and motorcycles needing an MOT during this challenging time will be exempt from needing a test from 30 March 2020 for 6 months. Vehicles which fall under this category can still be used for essential use but it's worth noting that drivers will still be prosecuted for driving an unsafe vehicle.
Can I use my car as a volunteer NHS responder and/or to help vulnerable people in my community with everyday tasks?
Yes, you’re covered to use your car in this way. Any voluntary work is included as standard, such as collecting, shopping or prescriptions. You are covered to carry any medical equipment, medication and essential supplies, however, the goods themselves are not covered. You’re also covered to carry patients in your vehicle. Thank you for being wonderful.
I’m a key worker; can I use my car for work due to the impact of COVID-19?
Yes, business use (class 1) will be the minimum class of use for all LV= Direct Motor policies with immediate effect and until further notice. There will be no charge for this increase in cover and it will be honoured should you need to claim.
Thank you to all NHS staff and key workers across the board for doing all you’re doing at this time, we appreciate you.