Majority of Motorists Unaware of Overseas Insurance Cover This Bank Holiday

SEVENOAKS, ENGLAND -- August 22, 2014: A month-long survey* conducted by Auto Windscreens, a UK leader in windscreen repairs and replacements, revealed that 57% of motorists do not know if their vehicle is covered for travel abroad this summer.

While 33% of people knew their policy did cover them if venturing out of the country by car and 10% claimed they did not have insurance for such a journey, the remainder responded 'unknown' in July when posed the question 'does your motor insurance cover you whilst driving abroad?'.

Chris Thornton, Auto Windscreens' Managing Director, remarked on the findings: "While it might be that many motorists are not concerned if their policy covers them for overseas holidays as they have no plans to travel by car, a proportion of them are at risk from the potential of a ruined holiday should they be in need of assistance and find they do not have sufficient protection."

Motorists are urged to check the 'travelling abroad' section of their insurance policy before going away this bank holiday.

While all UK vehicle insurance provides the minimum third party cover to drive in other European Union (EU) countries, theft or damage to a policyholder's own vehicle may not be included. Even if a driver is insured fully comprehensive for UK driving, the same level of cover might not always apply overseas and time restrictions are worth confirming, with some providers reducing the level of cover for non-UK driving after around 30 to 45 days, although some others offer 90 days.

Outside of the EU, a Green Card should be carried to prove a policy meets the relevant country's requirements and can be supplied by insurers upon request.

Factors that could contribute to increased accident risks abroad:

Longer non-stop driving times as people head to holiday destinations, such as the south of France. Driving on the opposite side of the road. Differing road conditions and speed limits. General nervousness about driving abroad. Distractions caused, for example, by children or map reading issues. ADVICE FOR DRIVERS

What to do if car glass becomes damaged:

If you are only covered third party overseas, you may have to pay the full cost of any windscreen repair or glass replacement. If your policy does cover you, make contact with your insurer using the glass claims number provided. They will help organise any repairs with a local repairer.

Auto Windscreens is a member of EAVAA, a group of automotive companies that provides quality repairs across Europe.

What to do when involved in an accident:

Make contact with your insurer immediately and call the local police. Your insurer will be able to support you in organising repairs and getting you back on the road. As when driving in the UK, gather as much information as you can about the other driver (name, registration, vehicle make and model, contact information), take details from any witnesses and use your phone or camera to take pictures.

The UK Government offers tips and advice for when travelling abroad by car and advises on some of the documentation you should take, including your driving licence, and items you need to bring on your trip. For example, you should carry a breathalyser in the car whilst driving in France.

*All data gathered from a 402-strong sample of Auto Windscreens' customers throughout July 2014.