Glossary

Claim:
A request to redeem, in the form of a car repair/ replacement, your insurance policy.

Hot Topics

What if I have a high performance car?
High performance cars tend to be very expensive, but its not just the buying of the car. It's also the cost of maintaining, repairing it, and particularly the cost of insuring that you need to fully consider. High performance Car Insurance can cost anywhere up to about £10,000 a year, so shopping around can save you a small fortune.
What types of Motor Insurance Policy are available?
Since 1930 it has been a legal requirement for all drivers of motor vehicles to be covered by insurance for a minimum of third party claims, that means you have to be insured against accidents that are caused by you and have damaged a ‘third party’s’ vehicle.
What is a Comprehensive Motor Insurance policy cover?
Comprehensive cover is when you cover your vehicle against most forms of damage that may occur to your vehicle. This doesn't mean you are covered for absolutely everything. If you look in depth into your comprehensive car insurance contract you'll probably find some significant exclusions.
What are the road tax rates by specific type of vehicle?
The collection and administration of road tax is done by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). The DVLA is responsible for all regions of the UK. Their aim is to facilitate safe and responsible driving throughout the UK. In addition to road tax they are also responsible for keeping a registry of all vehicles and qualified drivers.
I am at the scene of an accident - what do I do?
Take note of the registration number of all vehicles involved within the accident.
Comprehensive Cover:
Provides the most ‘comprehensive’ form of cover available, it will include cover for damage to your vehicle and yourself in the event of accident.

Cover:
Refers to the risks that your insurance policy will protect you against.

Excess:
This is the amount that you will personally be expected to pay in the event of a claim.

Exclusion:
an uncovered risk, something which is not covered by your car insurance policy. An exclusion could be almost anything from specific people to specific use of your vehicle.

Green Card:
This document proves that your vehicle meets the minimum car insurance requirement for the country you are visiting outside of the UK. A green card is a worldwide recognised document and you can collect a 'green card' from your car insurance provider. NOTE make sure you request your green card well in advance of your trip.

Insurer:
This is the company which provides your insurance policy. They are also your point of contact in the event that you need to make an claim.

No Claims Bonus:
This is a percentage discount given to a driver on their original premium if they fail to make any claim during a set period (typically 10 or 12 months).

Policy:
This is the document which outlines the terms and conditions of the car insurance policy that you have purchased.

Policyholder:
This is the person who is insured by the policy.

Premium:
This term refers to the monthly price you pay for your car insurance policy.

Third Party:
This refers to any other individual involved in a car accident that is not within your vehicle. This could include, another car, cyclist, pedestrian or even the tenant a house you hit.

Third Party Cover:
Provides covers any liability you may have to a third party if you are involved in an accident, but provides no cover for you or your vehicle

Third Party, Fire and Theft Cover:
Similar to Third Party Cover, this type of policy covers any liability you may have to a third party if you are involved in an accident, but provides no cover for you or your vehicle. In addition it will provide compensation for your vehicle if it is damaged in the event of a theft or through fire.

Voluntary Excess:
This is the amount that you have specified upon your policy as the additional value, on top of the compulsory excess, that you are prepared to pay in the event of a claim. Agreement with your provider to pay a greater voluntary excess, in the event of a claim, will reduce your premiums.