Motorists getting behind the wheel of one particular vehicle are at risk of being hit with an unlimited fine due to a little-known mistake. According to an expert, many van owners are completely unaware that they may require a completely separate insurance policy to get behind the wheel.
Drivers have been told they “must declare” if their vehicle is being used for work, even if their role is minimal. Staying silent and remaining on a social and domestic policy could backfire if road users are involved in an accident while undertaking work duties.
Drew Hamilton, van expert at car leasing firm First Step Vehicle Solutions, said motorists were at risk of driving completely uninsured which could have major consequences.
He explained: “The number of van drivers who assume their existing car insurance covers them for van use is incredible. It does not work like that. If your insurance does not match the way you actually use the van, then legally you are driving uninsured.
“Insurance companies need to know if the van is used for work. If you are carrying tools, making deliveries or travelling between jobs, you must declare it. If you say it is for social use only and then use it for work even once, you may not be insured at all.”
“People are shocked when insurers refuse to pay out because the policy does not reflect how the van is used. At that point, you are personally liable for every penny of damage, including injuries to other people. The financial impact can be devastating.”
Motorists travelling without valid insurance could be at risk of having their vehicle seized and destroyed by police. Affected road users are also likely to receive six to eight penalty points on their driving licence as well as a hefty fine.
This could result in longer-term pain, with road users likely to find it difficult to secure an affordable car insurance policy later down the line.
The expert stressed the likelihood of going under the radar was slim, with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras built to flag uninsured drivers.
Drew added: “Some drivers think third-party insurance is enough because their van is not worth much. They forget that the biggest cost after an accident is rarely the van. It is the other person’s injuries, their lost income, and their ongoing care. Without valid insurance you are responsible for all of that.”
“If your work changes, your mileage increases, or you start towing or carrying heavier equipment, you must tell your insurer. One simple call can prevent enormous trouble.”
He concluded: “A van is a work tool for most people. If you lose it or face an unlimited fine, your entire livelihood is at risk.”
