What is temporary motor Insurance and when might I use it?
Temporary motor Insurance - Everything you need to Know
November 2023
On The Road with Temporary Motor Insurance
Whether you need a van to move in together, are planning a run to IKEA or just want to drive a car at the weekends, you might not have considered temporary vehicle insurance, but this could be the cost-effective solution to keep you protected on the roads.
In the United Kingdom, motor insurance is a legal requirement for all drivers. However, there are situations where traditional annual insurance policies may not be the most practical or cost-effective solution. Whether you're borrowing a friend's car, need cover for a brief period, or just prefer flexibility, short-term or temporary motor insurance in the UK could be the answer. In this blog, we'll explore the ins and outs of short-term or temporary motor insurance and how it can benefit drivers.
What is temporary motor insurance?
Temporary motor insurance, often referred to as short-term motor insurance, provides cover for a shorter duration than traditional annual policies. While standard motor insurance typically spans 12 months, short-term insurance allows you to insure a vehicle for as little as one hour or up to 28 days. It's designed to meet the needs of drivers who require temporary cover for various reasons, whether it is for a car or van.
When might you need temporary motor insurance?
Borrowed or Shared Vehicles: If you're borrowing a friend's car for a weekend getaway or sharing the driving duties on a road trip, short-term motor insurance can provide the necessary cover without affecting the owner's existing policy.
Learning to Drive: Temporary learner driver insurance is a popular choice for provisional drivers who want to get more hours of driving practice in, without the expense of driving lessons. Short-term learner insurance is a great option for anyone looking to get a bit of extra practice before their test.
Moving House: If you are temporarily using a van or larger vehicle to move house, short-term insurance can provide the necessary cover for the duration of your move.
Collecting Furniture: If you need to collect a large piece of furniture or a flat-pack kitchen from a well-known Swedish retailer, you might only need insurance for a few hours. Temporary motor insurance is a great option and is quick and easy to arrange.
Weekend Driving: Owning and maintaining a car is expensive. If you don’t need your own vehicle every day, it’s probably a bit unnecessary to have one. Just because you don’t need one in the week shouldn’t mean you can’t have a car for the weekend though. With weekend car insurance you can borrow a car, knowing that you are protected by the right insurance.
What are the benefits of temporary motor insurance?
There are several key benefits to temporary motor insurance in the UK, as follows;
- Cost-Effective: Short-term insurance is often more affordable than amending or cancelling an existing annual policy. It prevents the need to pay for cover you won't use in the long term.
- Flexibility: You can tailor the policy's duration to your exact needs, whether it's for a few hours, days or up to 28 days.
- Wide acceptance Criteria: Our provider will insure people of all ages, from 18 to 75, and will cover many types of cars and vans.
- Instant Cover: Most providers offer quick and straightforward online applications, providing instant cover, sometimes within minutes.
- Peace of Mind: Short-term insurance ensures you're legally covered, eliminating the risk of driving uninsured and facing penalties.
How do I buy temporary motor insurance?
The quickest way to get a quote is to go directly to our recommended supplier Get Shorty, a well-known and reputable provider of short-term insurance.
5 Tips for buying temporary motor insurance
When considering short-term motor insurance in the UK, it is important to make an informed decision, here are our top 5 tips to think about when buying temporary motor insurance:
- Ensure the policy offers the cover you need, whether it's comprehensive or third-party only.
- Select a policy duration that aligns with your specific requirements.
- Make sure the driver of the vehicle fits the criteria set out by the insurer, including any claims history.
- Verify that your vehicle is eligible for short-term insurance, as some providers may have restrictions on vehicle age and value.
- Understand the terms and conditions, including any restrictions or limitations before you buy the policy.
What Next?
Temporary motor insurance in the UK provides a flexible and cost-effective solution for drivers in various situations. Whether you're borrowing a car, test driving, moving house, or hosting visitors, temporary cover offers peace of mind without impacting your existing insurance.
Before purchasing short-term insurance, carefully assess your needs, compare quotes, and choose a policy that aligns with your specific requirements. With the right cover in place, you can confidently hit the road for your short-term journeys, knowing you're protected.
Get a quote here - Go Shorty