Planning on a European road trip this year but wondering about car insurance? Many motorists wouldn’t give it a second thought, which is scary considering the potential ramifications of something going wrong in a foreign country. We think it’s worth noting a few European car insurance tips first.
Acquiring European car insurance needn’t be a pain, but to alleviate any pre-trip anxieties, we’ve put together a short guide to answer your queries before you head off to Dover.
On this page, we’ll explore all the essentials you need to know as part of a driving-in-Europe-checklist, including how to check the level of continental insurance you may already have, how long you’re covered for and what a Green Card is.
Am I covered to drive in Europe on my car insurance?
In all likelihood, yes, you will be. But before booking a ticket on the next France-bound ferry, there are a few caveats worth digesting.
All UK insurance policies offer minimum third party cover to drive in the EU, Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia and Switzerland.
Having said that, though, it’s highly unlikely that your policy will offer the same level of cover it provides you with in the UK.
Just because you’ve taken out comprehensive cover in the UK, doesn’t mean you’ll enjoy the same cover abroad – it’s more than likely that your cover will downgrade to Third Party/Third Party Fire and Theft the moment you leave the UK.
Again, double check your details before the off. Some insurers may give you the option to upgrade your policy to include comprehensive European cover for a small fee.
Better still, if you’re inclined to making many cross-continent road trips per year, why not use the Mustard.co.uk insurance comparison site to see which providers offer the best European insurance, and to what level of cover?
Can I take out temporary European car insurance?
Yes you can – and for those taking a single trip, that could be the ideal solution. For example, if your insurance doesn’t include driving in Europe – or only covers you third party – you could take out a temporary policy instead of attempting to modify your primary insurance.
This might be especially useful if you only plan to drive abroad for a weekend but your UK insurer is only offering the bells-and-whistles 180-day cover. Do make sure that the temporary cover includes European travel, though – not all do as standard!
How long am I covered for when driving in Europe?
Say you’re one of the lucky ones with extensive 180-day cover to drive in Europe. That doesn’t necessarily mean you can motor across the continent for six months all in one go.
Many insurers will provide a maximum amount of days that you’re covered, but then also includes a separate timescale of how many days can be taken consecutively. Therefore, if you’re planning any extended foreign jaunts (usually longer than a week), it’s best to give your insurance company a quick call to let them know.
Planning a trip to Germany? Be sure to check out our guide to driving in Germany before hitting the road.
Do I need a green card?
First, the green card we’re referring to is totally unrelated to that which enables you to live permanently in the United States.
Instead, it’s an internationally accepted document that proves the existence of insurance on a subject vehicle. It used to to be mandatory in all European countries, but today only a handful still require the document including Albania, Azerbaijan, Moldova, Turkey and Ukraine.
However, though most major nations on the continent do not require drivers to carry a green card, we’d still recommend procuring one if heading to the far east as it could save you considerable time in the event of a stop by local police. Check out the government advice page on green cards for more information.
To obtain a green card, contact your insurer as it will provide you with the necessary documentation.
It’s worth remembering that road laws change all the time, just as they have done in Spain in recent months. Always do your research on your destination before setting off.
Driving in Europe car insurance tips - FAQs
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Will I have breakdown cover in Europe?
Again, check with your provider before you leave. While some breakdown companies will provide European cover as standard, many will want to charge extra for the privilege or, in some cases, not offer any full stop.
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What documents do I need to take?
For insurance purposes, be sure to bring your driving licence, certificate of motor insurance and – ideally – your green card. The same goes for breakdown cover documents. Also make sure the number you need to call in the event of an accident is easily accessible at all times.
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