UK Short-Term Cover: The Unasked Questions

(most of them are answered here at newzoid.com)

Yes, there are many advantages to just obeying the law of insurance cover in the UK. Sometimes these policies are written in a way that provokes the most interesting questions imaginable. In addition to being informative, they can be downright amusing. But let's be clear; someone asked it, so someone needs to know the answer.

On everybody's mind, in the UK, is the question of animal assaults: will they be liable for damages? If not, who will pay the repair cost? From camels to squirrels, the funny images of these renegade mammals have captured the imagination of the UK. However, after a few giggles, it is safe to wonder who would be responsible for paying for that cracked windscreen or the dent in the bonnet that a camel used for a couch?

Separating the Facts From the Fiction

One can never be too sure. And what if this happened while the car was being loaned for use by a colleague or a relative just for one day? How fast would the policy go into place? What about that no-claims discount; would it be built up during the 28-day period of the temporary cover? What about the 28-days; is it a limit, or can you get an extension for a bit longer, say, three months or so?

Check here yourself for temporary car insurance

Wait! One at a time! Well, many of these are, in fact, straight-forward answers; we will leave the camel question for last:

• How fast does the policy go into place?

Fortunately, the temporary cover is in effect immediately upon payment. You can ring your insurance company to request this cover, and can pay by debit card or credit card. At that point, you can, hopefully, safely hand over the keys to your unquestioning companion.

• Does the no-claims discount build up under the temporary policy?

Unfortunately, there is not any bonus or benefit to be derived from the temporary policy. Not only do you not get any build up of the no-claims bonus, you also do not get to receive any type of discount for not filing any claims during this time. In addition, you also do not get to transfer any bonus whatsoever to any other policy at all. Isn't that just jolly?

• Is there a way to extend the 28-day temporary cover?

While we are in the spirit of saying "no," here is another great "no." There is no way to extend the cover. This is a limitation, and if there is a need for a longer period of cover, than you should inquire to your insurance company about taking out a 12 month policy for the other driver.

• Who is liable for damages resulting from animal assaults?

Over the years there have been a remarkable number of claims filed for animal attacks. From camels in car parks to disgruntled deer on motorways, the question of damages comes down to believability and evidence. For example, the kicking camel was caught on camera; it's claim succeeded.

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