The British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) is warning motorists not to leave their vehicles unattended with the engine running whilst defrosting the windscreen, as many insurers will not pay the claim should the car be stolen.
Most motor insurance policies now have a specific “keys in car” or “vehicle left unattended” clause and exclude claims in these circumstances.
In addition, there will be a “reasonable care” clause, whereby the insurer may reject a claim on the grounds of the policyholder being “reckless” in not safeguarding the vehicle.
BIBA urges consumers to be aware that there are a number of situations that could leave them at risk:Leaving the keys in/on the vehicle or in the ignition.
lLeaving an unlocked vehicle unattended.
Vehicles are most vulnerable when people are paying for petrol or are outside the family home.
Waking up on a freezing cold morning, it can be tempting to save a few extra minutes by starting the engine and warming the vehicle up while you nip back inside to finish getting ready.
But, from experience, BIBA knows that many motorists who do this may be at risk from “frosting,” which is when opportunist thieves steal the vehicle with the keys in the ignition, while the windscreen is being defrosted.
There are a number of exclusions that can lead to the policyholder not being able to claim for the stolen vehicle and BIBA’s top tips for ensuring drivers don’t face this problem are:
lLeave enough time to defrost the car properly;
lStay with the vehicle at all times when defrosting;
lNever leave the vehicle unattended (however briefly) with the keys in/on the vehicle;
lNever leave the vehicle unlocked, or with an open window, whilst unattended.
Motorists are advised to contact their broker if they need more information on the clauses that are in their policy.