Many UK drivers aren’t really sure what is, and what isn’t, covered when you drive abroad. Perhaps one area where insurers could educate travellers is the value of having legal cover to fight any third party driver motoring claim or a serious traffic offence case abroad.
Here’s the word;
New research from Prima reveals that almost half (49%) of British drivers who have driven abroad or plan to do so do not know exactly what their car insurance covers overseas, despite more than half (51%) saying they feel confident driving on foreign roads.
The findings come ahead of the summer holiday season, when thousands of UK motorists will be preparing to drive across Europe. While many feel comfortable navigating unfamiliar roads, the research suggests confidence behind the wheel is not always matched by a clear understanding of insurance cover.
Only half (51%) of drivers said they know exactly what their insurance covers abroad and for how long. Meanwhile, 26% said they only have a rough idea, 12% are unsure what is covered, and one in ten (10%) said they believed they did not have insurance for driving abroad at all.
Confidence behind the wheel, uncertainty in cover
The research highlights a striking gap between how prepared drivers feel and how well they understand the protection they have in place.
More than four in five drivers (84%) said they are very or fairly confident they understand the driving laws and requirements of the countries they visit. Yet almost half do not know exactly what their insurance policy covers overseas.
This may mean some motorists are travelling without fully understanding key details such as which countries their policy applies to, how long cover lasts, or whether additional protection may be needed before setting off.
Younger drivers least certain about overseas cover
Younger drivers appear especially likely to lack clarity around insurance when driving abroad. Only 40% of 16–34-year-olds said they know exactly what their insurance covers abroad and for how long, compared with 59% of over-55s.
One in five 16-34-year olds (20%) said they are unsure what is covered, compared with just 5% of over-55s. These younger drivers were also more likely to worry about not having the right insurance cover when driving abroad, with 18% of 16–34-year-olds saying this concerns them, compared with 2% of over-55s.
Drivers also caught out by overseas road rules
The findings suggest uncertainty extends beyond insurance cover.
More than one in ten drivers (12%) admitted they had driven abroad before fully understanding local road rules and requirements. Meanwhile, 10% said they had not realised that failing to carry required safety equipment, such as warning triangles or beam deflectors, could be against local laws, while 8% said they were unaware that parking regulations can differ significantly between countries.
The research indicates that while many Brits enjoy the freedom and flexibility of driving overseas, some may be travelling without fully understanding the rules and requirements that apply once they cross the border.
Morad Benmoussa, Head of Customer Care UK at Prima, commented: “Driving abroad can be a brilliant way to explore and enjoy more freedom on holiday, but drivers need to be clear on what protection they have before they set off.
“Our research shows a clear gap between confidence and clarity. Many drivers feel comfortable taking to the roads overseas, but almost half do not know exactly what their insurance covers abroad or how long it lasts. If something goes wrong, the last thing anyone wants is to discover they misunderstood their policy.
“Before travelling, drivers should take a few minutes to check their insurance documents, confirm the countries they are covered in, understand the level of cover provided, and make sure the duration of their trip is included. They should also check any local driving requirements, such as compulsory safety equipment, before crossing the border.”
Prima offers up to 90 days’ cover for driving in Europe, helping customers travel with greater reassurance when taking their car abroad.
What drivers should check before heading abroad
Prima advises drivers planning to take their car overseas to:
● Check whether their car insurance covers driving in the country or countries they are visiting
● Confirm how long their cover lasts while abroad
● Understand whether they have the same level of cover as they do in the UK
● Check whether additional documents or proof of insurance are needed
● Research local driving rules, speed limits and required safety equipment
● Make sure their vehicle is roadworthy before setting off
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