Britons must look at car insurance when driving overseas

British motorists considering driving overseas this year must ensure they are adequately insured.

The price comparison site, moneysupermarket.com, is urging drivers to look at their car insurance policies before thinking about driving abroad.

39% of motorists are unaware their motor insurance may be automatically downgraded from comprehensive to third party when driving in Europe, according to moneysupermarket.

Five of the UK’s 10 leading insurers automatically reduce cover when policyholders travel to Europe.

Motorists with insurance from Barclays, Direct Line, esure and Swiftcover are most at risk.

Richard Mason, director of insurance at moneysupermarket.com, said If you normally have comprehensive car insurance, it will come as a shock if you are with one of those insurers who will downgrade your cover for driving in Europe.

While it may be in the small print of your policy, our research shows many motorists are unaware of this, added Mr Mason.

Mr Mason continued that every insurer must provide the minimum level of third party cover in all EU countries. So, if there is any damage to your own car, you will be left to foot the bill.

Anyone with a holiday home in Europe or who regularly drives in the continent will do well to look for an insurer that automatically provides the same level of cover throughout the EU, concluded Mr Mason.

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