What Do I need to do if using my Car abroad?

No matter where you go in Europe, be it Ireland, Wales, Scotland or the mainland, you are covered for at least the minimum level legally required in that country with your UK motor insurance policy. Even though, you still need to inform your insurer before you go abroad, in particular to check that the minimum level of cover is right for you in the place where you are going. The minimum level of cover may not include damage, theft or liability. Thus, you should ask your insurer where your cover extends to before you leave, to ensure you get the appropriate protection.

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What are the principles Motor Insurance is built upon?: During the process of applying for motor insurance you will be asked for many details ranging from personal details to location and security based questions. As with all insurance you are well advised to answer any and all questions as honestly as possible in order to ensure any claims are fully met by your insurance company in the event of an accident.
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 Third party only Insurance?: If you want yourself to be personally covered against accident or your vehicle to be covered you should consider a more comprehensive form of car insurance.
How do I make a claim on a Motor Insurance policy?: You should also take the time to familiarise yourself with the claims procedures at each new motor insurance company you use. Each company has a slightly different claims procedure, it is imperative that you understand both what is covered and how you should approach making a claim against your policy.
As a result of the accident, my car has been damaged - can I go ahead and get it repaired?: If you have taken out comprehensive car insurance cover and wish to claim under the policy, a specific claims procedure will be given to you when you contact the Claims Line to notify them of the accident. You should not repair your vehicle without the approval of your insurer.

You must prepare your car thoroughly before you go abroad, by way of having a full service, remembering to ask the garage to adjust your headlights to dip towards the right. Ferry companies do not allow petrol to be carried in a can on board, so you should get a full tank of petrol in your Motor before putting your vehicle on the boat. You need spare bulbs for your headlights, a first aid kit and a warning triangle, as these are compulsory in many countries. You might also want to carry a spare clutch cable, as many overseas makes will not fit a UK vehicle.

The there is a green card, which your motor insurance company should give you as proof that you and your vehicle are up to scratch as far as local motor insurance requirements are concerned. It is internationally recognised and you should therefore ensure that you pack it, along with your policy number, and the contact details for your insurers in case of emergencies

The actions taken should an accident happen in abroad aren't too much different than if one occurs in the UK. You should stay calm, don't admit fault, check for injuries, and contact the emergency services should injuries have incurred. If a police officer comes, make sure you note his number. Whilst doing that, you want to get the details for the other driver as well. Note their registration plates and their vehicle details as well as their name and address. If you have any witnesses then you should get their details as well.

Sometimes, you'll be presented with a document in a foreign language that you don't understand, and are asked to sign it, then write in as large letters as you can: "I DON'T UNDERSTAND THIS DOCUMENT". Take photos of the accident, and bear in mind that you may need to complete an accident statement. If the damage to you Motor is minimal then you can wait until you get back to the UK before contacting your insurer. Should the damage be serious, then call your insurer's emergency claims number.