Buying a Vehicle
3. Applying for a policy
How you applied for your policy and the information you give to the insurance company can make a big difference when you decide to make a claim.
The golden rule is to give the insurance company a complete and accurate picture of your situation. In other words ...
Tell it like it is
You will have to answer a load of questions from the insurance company so they can accurately assess the risk of insuring you. They might ask you about:
- who will be driving the car regularly
- the driving record of the regular drivers eg driving offences
- previous car insurance claims
- any modifications to the car.
It's very important you answer these questions honestly - this is called your "duty of disclosure". Don't be tempted to hold information back to get a cheaper premium. Deliberately withholding relevant information is fraudulent.
Sometimes you may not be sure what to put down in the application form or you may not remember all the details. Take the time to check you've put down any relevant traffic offences or insurance claims.
If the insurance company discovers any of your answers were incorrect they may be able to reject any claims you make under the policy.
Keep in touch
Always tell the insurance company if your circumstances change eg you change address or make changes to your car. These changes can affect your premium. Avoid your policy lapsing by always paying your premium by the renewal date and telling the insurance company about any change of address.