If you don’t drive regularly, it’s easy to question the whole point of taking out an annual car insurance policy.
But it is a little more complicated, as car insurance is a legal requirement for all drivers in the UK and by not having one, it can lead you to pay a hefty fine and penalties.
There are several reasons why maintaining insurance on your car, if you drive infrequently, is essential. Find out more in our short guide.
What are the legal requirements for car insurance?
In the UK, it’s illegal to drive a vehicle without at least third-party insurance. This is the minimum level of cover required by law, and it protects you if you cause damage to someone else’s vehicle or property, or if you injure them.
If you are an occasional driver and only use your car when you need to you will still need to have car insurance to make sure that you’re legally covered, in case something happens when you’re behind the wheel. Even if the car is kept on the road but not driven, it still needs to be insured.
If you don’t have a valid policy in place and the authorities catch you, you could face a fine of up to £300 and six penalty points on your driving licence.
What happens if I only drive once in a while?
You might wonder if you can simply let your insurance lapse and pick it back up whenever you need to drive. But keeping your car insured is still the only viable option in most cases.
You can consider switching to a pay-per mile or limited-mileage policy, if you still want to make sure that your car is roadworthy, regardless of not driving as much. These types of insurance allow you to adjust your premiums based on how often you use your vehicle, potentially saving you money while still providing the necessary coverage.
Are there any alternatives to regular car insurance?
There are alternatives, if you don’t want the hassle of having a full annual policy.
You could opt for short-term/temporary car insurance, which can last anywhere from one hour to a few weeks. This option is often ideal if you need to drive for a specific trip or a short-term period.
Car-sharing schemes are also great for those wanting access to a vehicle without having an ongoing commitment of insurance and ownership.
How can I reduce my insurance costs if I don’t drive much?
Consider a few key factors that can help reduce premiums if you feel determined to keep your car insurance at a low cost. One thing that can help cut costs is by lowering your mileage, as insurers offer discounts based on the number of miles you drive.
Another way to reduce your premium is by increasing your voluntary excess (the amount you agree to pay in the event of a claim). Just be careful not to set it too high, as it could leave you with an unexpectedly large bill if you do need to make a claim.
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