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Keeping Your Car Safe Over the Festive Period

20 December 2023 10:48 Comments Off

As the festive season gears up, spreading cheer and merriment, it’s crucial not to overlook a potential Grinch in the holiday mix — we’re of course talking about, vehicle theft.

Law enforcement, especially in the bustling world of delivery drivers, have raised concerns about an uptick in car thefts during the winter months and especially during Christmas. In this guide, we’re diving into practical tips and insights to help shield your car or van from festive vehicle thieves, and even more common these days, car parts thieves.

So, buckle up as we explore the recent statistics, shedding light on the scale of the issue and the need for proactive measures. This guide to keeping your car safe over the festive period aims to arm you with the knowledge and strategies required to ensure you have a worry-free holiday season, because sadly just having one of our reliable temporary car policies or courier insurance policies isn’t enough to stop a thief.

**Why You Need to Be Extra Careful Over Christmas.**

Amid the holiday hustle and bustle, with streets alive and roadsides crowded, opportunistic thieves find the perfect backdrop for their misdeeds. Delivery drivers navigating tight schedules face increased vulnerability, often leaving their vehicles momentarily unattended during drop-offs. South Yorkshire Police’s recent warning about the surge in vehicle thefts, especially affecting delivery drivers, underscores the need for extra vigilance during this period.

As the darker nights roll in, this leads to an increase in the number of vehicles being stolen. November is statistically the hottest month for thefts and Fiesta owners beware, your cars are the most stolen across the whole of the UK! It’s important to be aware that just because you have your keys on you, it doesn’t mean your car cannot be stolen; in fact, the majority of vehicle thefts today are carried out without obtaining a key (It’s estimated that nine in 10 of all cars that were stolen and recovered in 2022 were taken without having obtained the keys).

Yorkshire is historically a hotspot being the highest vehicle-to-theft ratio in the country ahead of London. So if you’re a Fiesta owner in Yorkshire take note. In contrast, Dyfed-Powys in Wales had the lowest theft rate in the UK and in England Gloucester and Cumbria appear the safest.

How to Prevent Car Theft

As the holiday season kicks into high gear, ensuring the safety of your vehicle becomes paramount. Adopting effective measures to safeguard your car from potential theft means you can enjoy the festivities with your family, stress and worry-free. The following proactive steps offer a thorough approach to fortifying your vehicle during the festive hustle, providing peace of mind as you navigate through crowded streets and busy parking lots.

When at home, ensure your keys are not visible or accessible from the outside, avoiding potential theft
Install at-home smart doorbells or a CCTV system
If your vehicle utilises a keyless car entry system, safeguard both sets of keys by storing them in a metal tin or Faraday pouch to thwart relay attack technology
Utilise crook locks and wheel clamps
Steer clear of leaving keys in the vehicle’s ignition, even for a brief moment when de-icing or stepping away from the vehicle
Always lock and secure your vehicle
Avoid leaving valuables or technology items, such as satnavs or mobile phones, visible inside the car
Refrain from leaving important car documents or spare keys inside the vehicle, as this facilitates theft and resale
Opt for parking in busy, well-lit, and attended car parks equipped with CCTV cameras for enhanced security
If you have a garage, utilise it to park your car, providing an extra level of protection
Enhance your vehicle’s security by considering the installation of a tracking device, assisting law enforcement in recovering your vehicle if it falls victim to theft

We really did save the best till last. Vehicles with trackers have a shocking stolen vehicle recovery rate of more than 95%, with 80% of those stolen vehicles recovered within 24 hours, thanks to its nationwide partnership with the UK’s police.

Why Having Fully Comp Insurance is So Important

With Britain finding itself in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis and drivers looking to save money in any way they can, the appeal of third-party coverage might seem like an easy cash save. Unfortunately, if you opt for Third-Party coverage you’re not insured for your vehicle in the event of a theft. We offer fully comprehensive insurance terms and you can insure your vehicle at the click of a button. This means you’re covered in the case of car theft.

If you have the misfortune of having your car stolen, you should immediately contact the police to file a report. Remember to ask for the crime reference number, as you’ll need this to begin a claim with your insurer

As the festive curtain rises, ensure your vehicle’s safety takes centre stage by incorporating these actionable tips. By grasping the scale of the issue through relevant statistics, you can proactively shield your car from potential theft and vandalism. Whether you’re a delivery pro or a holiday shopper, the key lies in vigilance, strategic planning, and, when needed, investing in the right insurance coverage. Let this guide empower you to navigate the festive frenzy with peace of mind, ensuring your car is a fortress against potential threats.

‘Tis the season to be jolly, not jittery! Embrace the festive cheer without fretting over car theft. Picture it: Your ride, safely parked and guarded by trusty crook locks and wheel clamps, giving you the gift of worry-free celebrations. Smart doorbells and vehicle tracking join the party, keeping a vigilant eye on your vehicle. And, for that extra dash of reassurance, you’ve got fully comprehensive coverage from GoShorty acting as your festive guardian angel.

With these expert tips, you can revel in the joyous chaos of the season, knowing your car is wrapped up safely, allowing you to sleigh the holiday stress-free.

Christmas Car Decorations, What is Okay?

10:35 Comments Off

As the festive season unwraps itself with joy and merriment, it’s tempting to extend the Christmas cheer to our vehicles. Google Trends shows a 62% surge in searches for “Christmas car decorations”, with drivers wanting to pimp their rides with festive flair. We can’t blame them!

While a decked-out car might seem like a festive dream, a cautionary note is essential. Experts warn that Christmas car decorations could potentially play the Grinch with your temporary insurance policy, posing risks that go beyond a simple fa-la-la.

Let’s unwrap the details and explore how to balance holiday spirit with responsible motoring…

Decorations Could Cause Increases in Theft

With Christmas trees sparkling in homes and houses adorned with twinkling lights, the desire to extend the festive spirit to our cars is entirely understandable. The allure of turning our vehicles into festive chariots is undeniable, but there’s more to this holiday makeover than meets the eye.

Despite the desire to make our cars festive masterpieces, as an insurance company, it’s our duty to warn that such decorations could turn into an unwelcome gift. Decorating a car is often considered a vehicle modification. This is because aesthetic upgrades can make the vehicle more attractive to thieves and, consequently, impact the likelihood of insurance claims as your risk of a robbery or theft changes dramatically. The risk isn’t just about denied claims; it extends to potential premium hikes as insurers calculate the increased risk associated with modified vehicles.

To be clear, this isn’t a no to any decorations! Just those that significantly alter the appearance, for example, you might not want to wrap the whole car in tinsel. So just ensure you err on the side of caution and moderation if decorating your car.

Decorations Can Cause Distractions

At GoShorty, your safety on the road is our top priority, especially during the festive season. While the temptation to glam your car is real, it’s crucial to recognise the potential risks associated with overly obnoxious or obstructive decorations.

Overly elaborate decorations inside the car can act as distractions, diverting the driver’s attention and increasing the likelihood of a collision. Drivers need to appreciate the importance of prioritising safety over their vehicle’s festive exuberance. Ensuring a clear and unobstructed view while driving is essential. We all encourage some Christmassy-themed fun and your car should be no different, we just love to strike a balance between celebrating the holidays and maintaining a safe driving environment.

GoShorty users need to be aware that, according to insurance standards, if your vehicle is deemed to have distracting decorations and you’re involved in a collision, there’s a risk that your insurance might be considered invalid, despite our thorough fully comprehensive cover, in-car distractions often end up voiding insurance. This is a significant concern, as it could result in complications when processing a claim, potentially leaving you without the coverage you need.

We want to ensure that our users can enjoy the festive season without unnecessary worries, so we recommend exercising caution and avoiding excessive or obstructive decorations that could compromise your safety on the road. Safety always comes first, and adhering to insurance guidelines helps guarantee a worry-free holiday season.

Navigating the Festive Road Safely

Don’t let the scrooge come out to play, stick to responsible decorating. A bit of tinsel never hurt anybody and we love a santa air freshener, but caution is advised to prevent decorations that could obstruct your vision or violate legal regulations.

As you navigate the roads during this sparkly season, consider these actionable tips to strike a balance between Santa spirit and road safety – just because he can carry a big sack of presents on the back of his vehicle sadly doesn’t mean we can!

Be Mindful of Vision Obstruction:

Avoid decorations that obstruct your vision or create blind spots
Ensure that all decorations comply with legal regulations regarding visibility

Moderation is Key:

Embrace festive decorations in moderation
A few well-placed elements can exude holiday charm without raising insurance eyebrows

Check with Your Insurer:

If in doubt about specific modifications, consult with your insurer
Seek clarity on whether your chosen decorations align with insurance policies

Safety First:

Prioritise safety over excessive embellishments
Choose decorations that enhance your car’s festive appeal without compromising your ability to drive safely

Consider Vehicle Tracking:

If you think your car could be a tempting target for thieves due to decorations, consider installing a vehicle tracking system for added security!

Car modifications don’t necessarily need to be excessive to potentially invalidate an insurance policy. Even seemingly minor changes, if deemed distracting or compromising safety, could pose challenges when processing claims. To ensure a smooth and worry-free holiday season, we advise our users to strike a balance between festive creativity and adhering to insurance guidelines, guaranteeing that your vehicle modifications won’t jeopardise your coverage in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

So, go out this Christmas and lap up the festive joy, exercise caution with the jingle bells but by all means get the Bublé CD on the speakers. Just remember, it’s crucial to approach Christmas car decorations with caution. By exercising moderation, prioritising safety, and consulting with your insurer, you can strike the perfect balance between holiday spirit and responsible motoring.

Let your car shine with the magic of the season, all while ensuring a safe and joyful journey through the festive roads. Merry Christmas!

The Best Insurance for Electric Cars

29 November 2023 15:32 Comments Off

Eager to join the green revolution with your very own electric vehicle? You’re not alone. As the world transitions towards more sustainable transportation, more and more drivers are making the switch to electric vehicles (EVs) and are, therefore, needing to source insurance for electric cars.

With the rising popularity of these eco-friendly cars, you will be pleased to know electric vehicle insurance can be found as part of many of our temporary car insurance and temporary van insurance policies, with more and more of our insurance providers covering EV’s.

While we may not be covering the high-end Teslas just yet, our comprehensive insurance options now extend to some of the mid-tier EV models, providing peace of mind and security for your electric driving experience.

With the transition to electric vehicles, ensuring that you’re fully covered without breaking the bank has never been more important. This is where GoShorty’s temporary insurance solutions come into play, offering a cost-effective way to protect your electric vehicle, when you need it.

Say goodbye to hefty annual insurance fees and hello to a flexible, on-demand insurance model that keeps your EV fully covered only when you need to use it, without draining your wallet. And if you haven’t switched to an electric vehicle yet, but are looking for more eco ways to drive – car sharing with the help of our temporary daily insurance or hourly cover is a simple solution too.

Why Temporary Insurance is the Best Insurance for Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles are quickly becoming the transportation mode of today, offering environmentally conscious drivers a sustainable and efficient way to commute. Our temporary electric vehicle insurance allows you to enjoy seamless cover for your EV, safeguarding you against potential risks and uncertainties that come with owning an electric car.

Our tailored insurance solutions are designed to provide comprehensive protection for your vehicle, ensuring that you can hit the road with confidence, knowing you’re fully covered on your travels.

Worried about the finances of insuring your electric vehicle throughout the year? You might be asking yourself “Are electric cars cheaper to insure? Or, “Are electric cars more expensive to insure?” The answer is, it genuinely depends on the vehicle, type of insurance, and how long you need it for. But there is no denying insurance premiums are on the up, especially for electric vehicles – which is why choosing temporary cover can be a cost saving solution.

Our temporary insurance options offer a budget-friendly solution to curb unnecessary costs. With our on-demand insurance model, you can secure cover for your EV precisely when you need it, allowing you to save on premium expenses during periods when you’re taking a break from the roads, or using a different car. This cost-effective approach to electric vehicle insurance ensures that you’re only paying for insurance during the times when you’re actively using your vehicle, bringing that overall cost down.

We provide the option to insure your vehicle only during the periods when you actually need it. Say goodbye to the days of paying hefty annual premiums for a vehicle that spends more time parked, than on the road.

**The Benefits of EV Temporary Insurance**

When it comes to managing your vehicle’s insurance costs, flexibility is key. Our temporary insurance solutions empower you to customise your policy based on your specific usage needs.

Whether you’re using your vehicle for occasional weekend drives or seasonal road trips (perhaps a summer staycation is on the cards?), our on-demand insurance model allows you to tailor your policy duration to align with your driving requirements.

This streamlined approach not only helps you save on electric vehicle insurance expenses during periods of minimal use, but also offers the flexibility to adjust your cover based on your changing driving patterns.

With the popularity of EVs increasing, short-term leases are on the rise and that means you might just be after some short-mid term insurance. We’ve got you covered with our fully comprehensive insurance for electric cars.

With our comprehensive insurance options for electric vehicles, you can drive into the future with confidence, knowing that your travel adventures are fully covered and protected. Say hello to seamless and cost-effective electric vehicle insurance that aligns with your sustainable lifestyle, and embrace the joys of emission-free driving without the worry of high insurance costs.

Embracing the eco-friendly benefits of electric vehicles doesn’t mean compromising on comprehensive insurance, though. With our insurance for electric vehicles, you can be certain that your EV is fully protected against potential damages, theft, or other unforeseen incidents.

Our temporary insurance solutions are designed to accommodate the unique needs of electric vehicle owners, offering peace of mind and security as you navigate the roads with confidence.

Whether you’re commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure, our eco car insurance ensures that you can enjoy a worry-free driving experience, all while contributing to a cleaner, greener planet. Get a quote today to insure your EV.

A Student’s Guide To Moving House

25 August 2023 17:47 Comments Off

Moving away to university is an exciting time for many students. Every year the UK’s roads see a huge influx of students who’ve packed up and set off for their new homes. Whether you’re a fresher excited for your first term, or a third-year student who can’t wait to graduate, there are a few things you need to know before hitting the road.

It doesn’t matter if you’re just moving around the corner or to a whole new city miles away, getting your stuff from A to B can be a challenge. So if you’re packing up the car or looking to borrow a van for moving your new IKEA furniture, we can insure students making the big move, quickly and – most importantly – safely.

A Guide To Moving As a Student

The 2021-2022 school year saw 2.8 million students enrol in UK universities and that number is predicted to grow year on year. But before you get on the road, you’ll need to make sure you have everything you need to get the job done, whilst you may not be driving a van day-to-day, getting insured on one can make the moving day run a lot smoother. That’s where temporary van insurance comes in.

To make your whole moving experience easier, we’ve created a handy guide to ensure you get to your new place, stuff intact, safe and sound.

Clear Out Your Old Space

There’s nothing worse than arriving at your new home and receiving an angry call from your ex-landlord – or parents! When moving out it’s important that you leave the place the same way you found it. Giving your old digs a deep clean before you leave is the best way to make sure you get your full deposit back, or a warm welcome home at Christmas! It’ll also mean you get a fresh start without having to worry about any loose ends.

Keep Important Documents to Hand

It’s probably best not to store all of your important documents at the bottom of a box somewhere. There’s a lot of admin to get through when moving into a new space, so keeping your docs to hand is crucial to avoiding any panicked unboxing – you never know when you might need them. This means finding a safe, accessible spot for your tenancy agreement, driving licence (especially if you’re the one behind the wheel), vehicle insurance policy and other important bits. Best to have eyes on them and not need them, than to need them and not have them!

Enlist Helping Hands

If you’re a student moving house, one of the most important things you’ll need is help. No one wants to be on their own carrying multiple boxes up accommodation stairs. Asking family and friends to help out can make life a lot easier. Just make sure to order a pizza afterwards to thank them.

Arrive Early

With so many other students hitting the road, it’s best to leave early to avoid any annoying delays. Sitting in traffic will undoubtedly spoil the excitement of moving into a new home. Unpacking can also take a while, especially if you’re not particularly familiar with your new layout or storage. Arriving early also gives you the chance to meet your new housemates before that inevitable first night out!

How To Move Cheaply

If you’re a student moving to a new home, then you know that every penny counts. The last thing you need is to be spending money on superfluous things, especially when there are 2-4-1 cocktails to buy instead. Finding ways to cut moving costs is essential, especially if you’ve just put down a hefty deposit on your new pad. Take a look at our top tips to help cut down on moving day costs.

Find The Right Vehicle

The family car might not be your best option when it comes to moving. You need space – and a lot of it – so pick a vehicle that can get you and your stuff there in one trip.

It’s always best to give the vehicle you’re using a thorough once over before hitting the road, to avoid any nasty surprises getting on your possessions. Checking the tyre tread depth, brakes and oil levels will ensure that your trip runs smoothly. If it’s a long journey you may also consider asking a professional to service the vehicle before you hit the road. While this can cost a little more in the short term, it can save you any nasty surprise bills in the long run.

Borrow, Don’t Rent

If your usual vehicle isn’t quite right for this trip, but renting a van or hiring a moving company is prohibitively expensive – something it tends to be for students and young drivers – you’ll need another option.

Borrowing a vehicle from a family member or friend represents a significantly more affordable way to get from A to B. You can get on the road quickly and easily without the faff of endless paperwork, complex policies and lengthy waiting times.

Choose Flexible Cover

Comprehensive cover is key to your safety on the roads. It doesn’t matter if you’re moving across town or across the country, you need to make sure that you and your vehicle are covered for every eventuality.

If you’re just borrowing a van for a day or two, you don’t need to be lumbered with a costly annual policy, or to be added to a current policy, on a vehicle that you’ll barely use.

Temporary van insurance is an affordable way to get on the road super quickly. It takes less than 90 seconds to get covered with GoShorty, so you can drive away knowing you’re insured should anything unforeseen crop up. Our policies cover you from as little as one hour up to 28 days, so no matter where you are in the UK – or how many trips you need to move all your uni essentials – you’re covered.

Our van insurance calculator can estimate how much our cover could cost, so you can get an idea of the cost ahead of time. Find out how much you could save with our flexible temporary van cover, and move into your new digs without breaking the bank, get a quote in less than 90 seconds, easy.

Landmark Locations Index

16 May 2023 08:45 Comments Off

The UK hasn’t historically been considered a holiday hotspot.

The weather’s patchy (to put it politely), you’re likely to require a raincoat on the beach, and your sun protection rarely needs to exceed an SPF of 30. However, what the country lacks in consistent sunshine is made up for with an excellent line-up of landmark locations.

Whether you’re driving through Scotland, England, Wales or Northern Ireland, you can be sure there’s something gorgeous to have a gander at. So don’t miss out! Make sure wherever you’re pootling off to, you’re choosing the best routes to catch sight of those famous landmarks on your way.

With temporary car insurance you can have the freedom to share the driving with your travel buddy, plus it also expands your vehicle options. Borrow a mate’s 4×4 if you’re heading into rocky terrain, or a convertible to swan off to the beach in – just butter up the owner, get fully covered, and enjoy your weekend away. We’ve even included a couple of the UK’s most beloved motorway services – because at GoShorty, we know the journey’s just as important as the stay itself.

England’s Best Landmarks

Perhaps unsurprisingly, one of the most sought out British landmarks is Stonehenge. With a huge 201,000 Google searches per month, the mysteries of the prehistoric people who lived here are clearly still compelling people today. Other man made landmarks you’ll be able to spot from the roadside are Blackpool Tower and the Angel of the North – stunning examples of engineering and icons in their own right.

If you’re looking for a more pastoral drive South, Somerset’s Cheddar Gorge represents the largest gorge in Britain and has also been recognised as Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You’d be daft to miss it on your way through the South West – and indeed, Google has reported 74,000 monthly searches for the idyllic spot.

Further North, Lake Windermere – the largest lake in England – let alone the Lake District. Enjoy spectacular views of its glassy expanse, on your way. Not far off you’ll find Winnats Pass in the Peak District – a limestone gorge nestled in Derbyshire, famed for the wind that blows through. Meandering along the road you’ll enjoy the views, without the exertion of a steep walk.

Unmissable London Landmarks

We’d be remiss not to talk you through the capital’s landmarks. Royalty’s the name of the game here, with Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle garnering 447,000 monthly Google searches combined. We recommend swinging by Westminster Abbey too – although maybe not on 6th May – to appreciate its stunning Gothic architecture in the heart of the metropolis. Take in the many turrets and flagpoles of the Tower of London on the north bank of the River Thames, and the Grade I listed Tower Bridge isn’t far either – offering panoramic views of both the city and the busy river itself. You’d be hard-pushed to miss the most contemporary landmark on our agenda: the world-famous London Eye sits proudly above London’s skyscrapers.

Scotland’s Top Landmarks

With 135,000 monthly Google searches, Edinburgh Castle is by far Scotland’s most sought-after landmark. Perched on Castle Rock, high above the surrounding turrets, it’s easily viewed from across the city – dominating the capital’s skyline for centuries.

Discover the Kelpies in Falkirk – the largest equine sculptures in the world, and certainly worth a quick detour on your way. At over 100 ft tall and weighing more than 300 tonnes each, the Kelpies represent an incredible feat of engineering – a man made Scottish landmark not to be missed.

If you’re on your way North, try to plan a stop at Loch Ness along your route. The Scottish Highlands offer spectacular views for road users and hikers alike. We can’t promise you’ll glimpse Nessie from the car, but driving alongside this glorious body of freshwater will enrich your travel plans immeasurably.

Wales’ Famous Landmarks

Snowdon is the highest mountain in Wales, and can be seen towering above Snowdonia National Park. With 60,500 Google searches in the last month alone, it’s one of the UK’s most in-demand landmarks. Whether you’re climbing it (good luck!) or simply passing through – make sure to take in this ancient natural site.

Wales has also historically been partial to a good castle, with Cardiff and Conwy Castles each ranking at 33,100 Google searches per month. The British public’s appetite for a crumbling landmark remains undefeated. In fairness, each of Wales’ famous castles are remarkable structures and absolutely worth a drive-by, at the very least.

Northern Ireland’s Leading Landmarks

The Giant’s Causeway is by far the most sought-after natural landmark in Northern Ireland, thanks to its stunning geological formation, stretching 33 miles along Ireland’s beautiful coastline. A Unesco World Heritage Site, national nature reserve and widely-recognised to be one of the wonders of the world – we think it’s well worth the drive.

Many of Northern Ireland’s landmarks are nautical in theme – and you certainly won’t be disappointed by the stunning Titanic Belfast museum, which takes its design inspiration from the ship of the same name, the RMS Titanic. Situated on the Maritime Mile, if you time your driveby well, you’ll see the museum lit up spectacularly against the night sky. Truly unmissable, especially if you’re planning to travel to or through Belfast over the course of your trip.

For fans of Game of Thrones visiting Northern Ireland, The Dark Hedges are a must-see. Whilst the road itself is pedestrianised, there’s a handy car park available to those who are passing nearby and fancy taking a stroll to break up a long drive.

The UK’s Best Motorway Services

It’s impossible not to discuss the best UK landmarks to segue into your travel without also acknowledging the UK’s best motorway services. Not to be overlooked, a solid service station makes the difference between innumerable forgettable hours on the road and the dream drive to your destination. Scouting out the motorway services you’ll use before your route is absolutely not over preparation, no matter what anyone else says. A soggy buttie might do some, but it won’t do us.

Tebay Services

Tebay Services can be found in Penrith, just off the M6, and it will transform your attitude towards motorway services forever. Set against the idyllic Cumbrian countryside, and boasting a homemade menu of local produce, incorporating Tebay into your trip is a no-brainer.

Gloucester Services

Find Gloucester Services just off the M5. A beautiful, farm-inspired pitstop, you’ll enjoy a range of superior brands and a culinary standard which far exceeds most high-street eateries – let alone motorway cafes.

Making the most of your car journey can mean a lot of things. You might want to purchase temporary car insurance for a couple of your fellow travellers, to share the driving load. You might want to curate a playlist of all your favourite songs to sing along to. You should absolutely consider incorporating beautiful British landmarks into your trip, as well. Don’t let any prohibitive entry costs stop you from admiring both the man made landmarks and natural wonders of the country, from the road. It’s all about the journey, with GoShorty.

What To Do After A Car Accident

3 May 2022 16:11 Leave a Comment

A car accident can be a stressful experience, but knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath can make a huge difference. Whether it’s securing your vehicle, contacting emergency services, or exchanging details with the other driver, staying calm and following the right steps is key. If you have comprehensive insurance, as is provided with our temporary car policies, you’ll be covered for damage to yourself and anyone else involved.

For extra peace of mind having optional extras like breakdown cover, excess protection, or legal protection cover in place in the case of an accident can be invaluable.

If you ever find yourself in a collision, here’s what you should do afterwards…

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

If you’re involved in an accident:

Pull over safely, away from traffic if possible, and switch off your engine.
Turn on your hazard lights.
Ensure all passengers and drivers are safe. Check for injuries—if anyone is hurt, call 999 immediately.
Call the police if anyone is injured, behaving aggressively, or if there’s damage to property, animals, or the road is blocked.
Exchange details with the other driver.

Important: Don’t admit fault or apologise at the scene. It can be instinct to apologise even if something wasn’t your fault but this can affect liability and insurance claims. So it’s always best to avoid doing so.

Should You Call the Police After an Accident?

Yes, in a lot of cases you will need to call the police after an accident. However, if it’s a minor accident with no injuries and minimal damage, you can simply exchange details and let insurers handle it. If any of the below apply to an accident you’re involved in you will need to call the police:

Someone is injured and needs medical attention.
Property, vehicles, street signs, or railings have been damaged.
Any animals have been injured or killed (you can face fines for not reporting some animal injuries)
The other driver appears intoxicated, is behaving aggressively, or refuses to cooperate.
You suspect the accident was intentional (e.g. a ‘crash for cash’ scam).
The other driver flees the scene or is driving without insurance.
The road is blocked, causing a hazard (call 101 in non-emergency cases).

What Details Should You Take After an Accident?

After an accident, it’s important to stay calm and collect the relevant information as best as possible. You’ll need to take some details from anyone else involved, and you’ll also need to record some details yourself.

Details to get from other drivers involved:

Name, address, and contact details.
Driving licence number.
Insurance provider details.
Vehicle registration number, make, model, and colour.

The adrenaline from being in an accident can make it hard to remember things correctly later, so it’s a good idea to take notes of the below for yourself, as soon as it’s safe to do so:

Time, date, and location of the accident.
Driving conditions (weather, lighting, road surface).
Photos and videos of damage, the scene, and any relevant details.
Witness contact details.
The timeline of the accident as you recall in as much detail as possible.

If you have a dashcam then it’s a good idea to check the footage is securely saved and usable as soon as safe to do so. Your insurers will need to know if this is available to help speed up any claims.

Leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offence under Section 170 of the Road Traffic Act. Failing to stop if involved in an accident will result in penalties that can include fines, penalty points, and even up to six months in prison.

If someone drives off, call the police immediately and provide as much detail as possible about the other vehicle. The police can use CCTV, ANPR cameras, and other tools to track them down.

Who’s Insurance Should You Call After an Accident?

You should only contact your own insurance provider – whether or not the accident was your fault. Even if you’re not planning on making a claim you still need to call your insurance, to inform them of the event.

If another driver caused the accident, report it to your insurer, who will handle a non-fault claim against their insurance.
If the accident was your fault, you still must alert your insurance provider.
If the other driver is uninsured or fled the scene, you can apply for compensation through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), which helps victims of uninsured or hit-and-run drivers.

How Soon Should You Report an Accident to Your Insurer?

Contact your insurer within 24 hours of an accident, even if you’re not making a claim. Most providers allow up to 48 hours, but it’s always best to report it as soon as possible.

How Long Do You Have to Make a Claim?

It’s always best to claim as soon as possible after an accident. But different time limits for claims do exist, as insurers know some injuries could take a while to become apparent after a collision.

In the UK, the typical time frames you have to make claims following an accident include:

Vehicle damage claims: Timeframes vary—contact your insurer directly.

Personal injury claims: Up to three years after the accident.

Will an Accident Affect Your Insurance?

Yes, an accident will usually affect your insurance premiums – typically increasing them – even if you weren’t at fault. Insurers view any collision as an indicator of potential future risk.

No-claims discount: If you claim, you’ll likely lose some or all of your no-claims bonus unless you’ve paid for protection. However, if the accident is minor and you don’t need to make a claim, this won’t be impacted.

At-fault claims: Your insurer will pay for the other driver’s costs, and your premium is likely to rise.

Non-fault claims: Your insurer may still increase your premium slightly, even if they recover the costs from the other driver’s insurance.

What Happens After an Accident That Is Your Fault?

If you’re involved in an accident that was your fault, you’ll still need to follow the steps highlighted above. These are some things to be aware of though:

Do not admit fault at the scene—it’s up to insurers to assess liability using dashcam footage, witness statements, and police reports.
Your insurer will handle the other driver’s claim.
If you only have third-party insurance, you won’t be covered for your own repairs.
You may face a higher premium at renewal and lose your no-claims discount.
If you’ve caused an accident through careless or reckless driving or have been found to be driving under the influence, the police will be involved and you could face prosecution.

If you’re involved in a car park accident, or you hit a parked car and the owner isn’t present, you must always leave your contact details or report it to the police within 24 hours.

Car accidents are stressful, but knowing what to do can make the process smoother. Follow these steps to stay safe, protect your legal rights, and handle claims efficiently.

Want extra peace of mind whilst on the roads? Get comprehensive temporary insurance with us today, so you’re always covered.

Types of Car Insurance Explained: Third Party, Comprehensive & Excess

16 March 2022 12:57 Leave a Comment

If you own a car, you need to get insurance. This is a legal requirement. Yup, unless you have registered your car as being off the road (SORN) you have to insure your car.

This means you’ll need to understand the complexities. And, as there are a few different types of car insurance – each covering an overlapping range of issues, it may feel a little daunting when all you really want to do is get driving Knowing what your insurance covers is essential to getting the right policy for your needs.

We offer temporary car insurance, but you probably already knew that, and that insurance offers comprehensive cover. But what does that actually mean? How is it different to third party car insurance? What’s all this about excess? We’re going to help answer those exact questions to help you make an informed decision.

What is third party car insurance?

Third Party car insurance is the most basic level of car insurance available – and often the cheapest. Not only that, but it’s the absolutely legal minimum requirement for you to drive your car. It does not cover you, it covers a third party. But what does that actually mean, who is this mystical third party?

In Insurance terms, you and your insurance company are the first and second parties. A third party refers to another person you might be involved in an accident with. I.e. it’s the other person on the road, rather than you and your car.

What does third party car insurance cover?

Cover, in this situation, refers to costs resulting from:

Injuries to people, passengers or animals.
Damage to property.

Third Party only cover does not cover any costs that arise from the aforementioned situations to you or your property, only to a third party and their property.

Still not sure how third party car insurance works? Lets run through a basic scenario:

You have taken out third party car insurance and are out for a drive
You are in an accident and run into the back of another person’s car at the lights
The back end of their car is in pretty bad shape and so’s the front of yours. They’re ok, but you’ve given yourself whiplash.
Third party insurance would only cover the damage to the other car. You’d not be able to use your cover to pay for the repairs needed on your car or with any medical bills for yourself.

What is 3rd party, fire & theft cover?

Third Party, Fire and Theft insurance is the next step up in insurance cover. It still only covers third parties in the event of an accident. However, it adds two additional elements of cover for fire and theft.

What does third party fire and theft insurance cover?

It covers your car if:

It is stolen
It is damaged by fire

It can also cover you if someone damages it during an attempted theft, but this can vary from policy to policy, so you may want to double check.

What is comprehensive cover?

Comprehensive insurance is the highest level of insurance cover. Not only does it cover everything that third party insurance covers, but it covers a number of other things too. It’s the best car insurance available and should be your go-to level of cover if you are driving an expensive car, take expensive items around with you or simply want to have proper peace of mind.

What does a comprehensive car insurance policy cover?

Comprehensive car insurance covers a whole host of things, including both you and a third party. It covers:

Injuries to other people, passengers or animals.
Damage to other people’s property.
Fire damage
Theft
Accidental damage to your own car
Chipping & scratching
Vandalism or other malicious damage to your vehicle

Comprehensive insurance might also cover your windscreen, personal contents and medical cover if you need it after an accident. It can also give you access to a courtesy car and breakdown cover, although both of these are often extra. These are not necessarily included in your insurance policy, so you need to check.

When you have a comprehensive policy you may well need to pay excess. We’ll run you through what that means now.

What is excess in a car insurance policy?

When you make a claim on your insurance, you usually need to pay some of it yourself. This is called the excess. The excess is essentially the minimum claim on your insurance – the insurer pays out the costs of the claim above the excess, and you pay the rest. For example, if you have an excess of £300, and you need to make a claim of £1,000, your insurer will pay £700, and you will pay the £300.

There are two forms of excess that you’ll see mentioned. These are compulsory excess and voluntary excess.

Compulsory Excess

You agree to a compulsory excess with your insurer. This is determined by the insurer, and represents the amount that you need to pay in order to make a claim. This excess is often higher if you are either a young driver, or you drive an expensive car.

Voluntary Excess

A voluntary excess is an amount that you agree to pay if you need to make a claim. Accepting a higher voluntary excess is often a good way to reduce the overall cost of your car insurance premium.

Are there any other types of car insurance?

While third party and comprehensive are the two main car insurance policies that you’ll see when you’re shopping around, you may see a few other specialised types pop up.

Often other types are still simply a form of third party or comprehensive cover, but with a specific use.

These include:

Telematics insurance – this refers to a car insurance police that requires your vehicle to be fitted with a ‘black box’ that monitors your driving.

Young driver car insurance – insurance that’s specifically designed for younger drivers. We actually offer specific under 21 temporary car insurance and temporary learner driver insurance, for instance, and both of these are fully comprehensive.

European or ‘driving abroad’ car insurance – this is insurance that specifically allows someone to drive their car abroad with the same cover they’d have at home. Our temporary policies don’t offer this.

Classic car insurance – this is a specialised policy to help insure classic cars.

Named driver insurance – this usually refers to someone being added to an insurance policy. They’ll have the same rights as the policyholder when they drive the vehicle.

Multi-car insurance – this allows you to add more than one car to the same policy.

You may also see other terms like ‘pay as you go’ insurance being thrown around. This simply refers to how you pay for it. As we said above, each of these types of car insurance is generally just a specific use that uses third party or fully comp cover as the actual insurance policy.

What car insurance extras are there?

All of these policies don’t usually include quite everything. You may still need a few extras. These tend to include:

Breakdown cover – this is one of the most common extras. If you break down your breakdown cover will kick in and someone comes to pick it up then take it to get repaired.

Windscreen cover – chips and cracks are a common occurrence when you’re driving. Windscreen cover lets you get it repaired for the cost of your excess. This can be part of a comprehensive policy but that’s not a given.

Personal accident cover – this will offer compensation should someone be seriously injured or even killed in a car accident.

Motor legal protection – this will help cover the costs of legal action you may want to take after an accident that wasn’t your fault.

Courtesy car – your insurer will provide you with a car while yours is getting fixed after an accident.

Lost keys cover – your insurance policy will get you sorted with a new pair of car keys if yours get lost, damaged or stolen.

Does the length of policy affect the type?

The length of your policy is something that you agree to before you buy it. Many people choose to buy a year long insurance policy. However, this is not your only option. Shorter lengths of insurance policy do exist, and can be a great way to save money. When you get short term car insurance you can still get comprehensive cover and you won’t be limited to third party cover simply because you aren’t locking yourself in for a year.

Temporary Insurance from GoShorty

GoShorty specialises in a few types of insurance – short term car insurance and temporary van insurance policies. We offer drivers cover for between 1 and 28 days. This allows you to only insure the period of time that you are actually using the car for. At GoShorty, we offer fully comprehensive temporary car insurance cover – that means that you can protect a car (as well as the car owner’s No Claims Discount), even if you do not own it.

Get a temporary insurance quote today, and see how much you could save with GoShorty.

What don’t you learn as a learner driver?

20 December 2021 09:28 Leave a Comment

Learning to drive takes a long time. Indeed, it can be argued that you never stop learning.

Before you pass your test, you need to be safe while on the road. That’s where hourly temporary learner insurance steps in – with it, you can safely practice until you are ready to take the driving test.

While passing your driving test is one step of learning to drive, the experience you gain after you pass has the most significant impact. There is only so much you can learn during your driving lessons, and a range of things you can only learn through experience.

It’s easy to think you will know everything about driving once you’ve passed your driving test. But in reality, we all make driving mistakes and are constantly learning when we are behind the wheel.

But if you’re a learner or new driver, here are some of the things your driving instructor might not teach you and some of the common mistakes that learner drivers make.

What do You Still Need to Learn?

How to drive on the motorway

One of the most significant things you need to learn after you pass your test is the art of motorway driving. This used to be because learner drivers were not allowed onto the motorway. As of 2018, learners are allowed on the motorway with a qualified instructor.

However, using the motorway takes practice. There are a number of elements of motorway decorum that you cannot appreciate until you have experienced them.

These include hogging the middle lane, undertaking drivers who are doing so, tailgating slower drivers on the motorway and knowing what to do on smart motorways.

Learning to drive on the motorway is as much about avoiding these common learner driver mistakes as it is the theoretical knowledge of which lane to use and how to change.

How to use your headlights properly

The driving test does not feature specific guidance on being behind the wheel at night. As a result, it can be challenging to understand the proper use of headlights, among other aspects of driving when it is dark.

Part of learning to drive over time is getting a feel for when you need lights on and the timing of using full-beam headlights. You also need to grasp how and when to use your fog lights. It is actually prohibited to use your fog lights if the visibility is above 100 metres.

How to use full beam headlights

Full beam headlights are handy if you spend a lot of time driving at night on roads with limited lighting, helping to keep a clear view of the road ahead. But, do you know how to use them correctly?

As soon as you encounter another vehicle ahead of you, you must switch back to dipped headlights to ensure you don’t dazzle the driver. This is one of the common mistakes drivers make and could lead to other drivers losing control of their vehicle.

How to use the horn

As a learner, you might see fellow road users using their horns to signal their displeasure. Perhaps they have been cut off on a motorway, or surprised by a driver pulling out on them. Either way, using the horn for any reason other than to warn a fellow motorist of a dangerous situation is forbidden.

Your horn is only really meant to be used to signal to other cars that you are present. It is also against the highway code to use your horn if you are stationary (like at traffic lights) or in a built-up area at night.

How to make the most of your mirrors

You need to have a basic understanding of your mirrors to pass your driving test. However, there are several aspects of proper mirror use that are not essential parts of most driving lessons.

Your rear-view mirror is key to keeping an eye on other cars and low-speed driving. You should be familiar with this to pass the test.

However, do you know how to use your car’s anti-dazzle switch? Equally, learners need to make sure they have full command of their mirrors to maintain safe driving.

How to check tyre pressure

Many new drivers rely solely on their MOT for checking tyre pressure. Unless your car is equipped with a tyre pressure monitoring system that alerts you when your tyre pressure is low, you should take time to check your tyres are properly inflated.

Not only will driving on poorly maintained tyres can reduce your vehicle’s performance, but it can also increase fuel consumption and even lead to a blow-out.

When checking your car’s tyre pressure, make sure to do so when the tyres are cold: recently driven-on tyres could lead to a false reading.

Not to hog the middle lane

Although you may think this is just an annoying driving habit, hogging the middle lane when driving on the motorway is actually a breach of the highway code.

This is classified as careless driving as it makes overtaking considerably harder. If you’re caught unnecessarily driving in the middle lane of a motorway for long periods, you could face a fine and points on your driving licence.

Not to play loud music

Although you might enjoy blaring your favourite music when you are behind the wheel, this isn’t best practice when driving.

Not only could it prevent you from hearing emergency vehicle sirens or other road users, but it could significantly distract you from driving safely and to the best of your ability.

If a police officer finds that you’re distracted by music when driving, you could be charged with driving without due care and attention.

If you do listen to music when driving, make sure to keep the volume at a suitable level to keep away distractions and allow you to maintain control of the car.

How to clear ice from your windscreen

On a cold day, you may be tempted to clear just enough ice from the driver’s side of the windscreen to allow you to see out.

However, learner drivers should be aware that if your vehicle is deemed to be in a dangerous condition, you could face a fine and points on your licence.

By law, drivers need a full view of the road and traffic ahead, so take your time to clear all ice from the glass and mirrors.

One of the common mistakes that both new drivers and experienced drivers make is pouring boiling water onto the windscreen to clear ice. This extreme temperature change can crack or even shatter the windscreen, making your vehicle unsafe to drive.

Some handy advice that you probably won’t learn from your driving instructor is the safest way to clear your windscreen from ice and snow. Using the defrost setting to blow air onto the windscreen, as well as deicing liquid and a windscreen scraper, is the most effective way to clear the glass and mirrors before you travel.

Not to splash pedestrians

Although this is something your driving instructor probably covered, experienced drivers forget that splashing pedestrians is considered driving without reasonable consideration for other persons. For mistakes like this, you can face a fine and points on your driving licence if caught by the police.

Get temporary car insurance from Goshorty

Learning to drive takes everyone a different amount of time. Failing a driving test is not a sign of being a bad driver, it is simply a sign of not being ready to take your test yet. All that it needs is more practice.

Hourly Learner Insurance is perfect for however long you need to learn. It covers you to drive either your own or someone else’s car for between 1 hr and 28 days. Hourly learner insurance allows you to get out and practice safely for as long as you need.

Get a temporary insurance quote today, and see how much it would cost you to get hourly learner insurance.

Can an 18 year old buy temporary car insurance?

2 December 2021 13:57 Leave a Comment

Is temporary car insurance right for an 18 year old?

For young drivers, buying car insurance is a costly business, because they lack experience and statistics show they have more accidents. No wonder insurers hike up the premiums.

Safe driving comes with practice and so it’s tough for those who have recently passed their test to gain that invaluable time on the road. Insurance may be priced at around £2,000 a year for those in urban areas and added to all the other costs of owning a car, can make matters impossible.

So, what can be done to allow young drivers the chance to obtain insurance and drive when they need to?

Think short-term insurance

One option for an 18 year old is temporary car insurance. This means a young driver can take out comprehensive cover on a car they borrow on an as needed basis. The car’s owner can be reassured their No Claims Bonus remains protected.

The leading provider, GoShorty, will insure drivers aged 18 and above. This is providing they have held a driver’s licence – full UK or EU/EEA – for at least six months. They also need to have been resident in the UK for at least 12 months and have a permanent address.

Temporary car insurers want to cover sensible young drivers. As a result, they won’t cover those who’ve racked up many penalty points or had several accidents. Drivers with driving bans and criminal convictions will also not able to obtain temporary insurance. In terms of the car they borrow, this needs to be registered in the UK and without modifications, other than for a disabled driver or an LPG conversion.

Those meeting the criteria will find short term car insurance cover is the ideal way to get behind the wheel.

Pick a suitable car

Understandably, insurers don’t want to see a young driver in a Lamborghini. So, a cheaper quote can be obtained if the car is from a ‘low’ insurance group. All cars have an insurance classification and there are 50 groups. Generally, the lower the number, the lower the premium and vice versa.

Those in low groups are newer affordable models with less powerful engines and cheaper to repair if there’s an accident, along with having built-in security. Typical examples include VW’s Polo, Hyundai’s i10 and the SEAT Ibiza.

You can buy cover online within minutes with GoShorty. For young drivers, it’s the flexible and affordable way to drive.

Other options

A young driver can appear on a parent’s policy as a ‘named’ driver. This will push up the cost of the main driver’s insurance, but will be cheaper than the young driver buying their own cover.

A higher excess can also push down the price of cover, although care should be taken to ensure the amount chosen is within reach should an accident occur. Telematics, known as ‘black box’ insurance, is another possibility. This technology allows the insurer to monitor the driving style and car use. Clearly, some may find this somewhat intrusive, but the purpose is to reward safe driving with lower premiums.

There’s no getting away from the fact car insurance for young drivers is expensive. However, the price can be brought within reach and mean getting on the road safely. For an 18 year old, temporary car insurance represents a cheap and easy option.

Get a Quote today

Make sure your car is ready for winter

09:36 Leave a Comment

Is your car winter ready? Preparing your car for the cold weather can help protect you against accidents or breakdowns.

This article will look at the critical checks, preparation, and supplies to prepare your car for winter driving.

Car Checks

As the weather worsens, checking your car is ready for the winter before it is too late is advisable.

Tyres

Checking your tyre tread depth to ensure they aren’t worn will give you better traction in slippy conditions. Your tread must be a minimum of 1.6mm by law in the UK. If you are even close to this coming into winter, you might want to consider replacements.

Battery

Checking car batteries should always be a part of preparing for colder weather. A flat battery is bad at any time, but it is even worse during the winter.

You will be able to check the health of your car battery using a home battery tester or by getting a professional to help.

Antifreeze

Checking antifreeze levels in your engine’s cooling system will help you to avoid your system freezing in the dead of winter.

To check your engine coolant level, ensure you have a cold engine before taking off the radiator cap. Start the engine and allow the engine to reach operating temperature. Insert the probe of a digital multimeter that has been set to 20 DC volts or less.

Rev to 2,000 rpm before placing the probe onto the negative battery terminal. Look for a reading of .4 volts or below. Anything over this shows that coolant is needed.

Screen wash

Screen wash levels should be regularly checked as wet weather, salt, and dirt on the roads can make visibility challenging if you cannot efficiently clean your windscreen. Checking that your washer fluid is topped up regularly is advisable.

Lights

The winter months in the UK are naturally quite dark. Ensuring your lights work will allow other road users to see you in dim light.

Insurance

You must have the correct insurance cover anytime you want to drive. Because the winter weather can cause a lot of accidents, getting more protection could help.

If you find your insurance policy is due to run out, temporary car insurance that offers a higher level of protection than you usually get can be a great solution.

GoShorty offers temporary car insurance and temporary learner driver insurance, so you won’t have to pay for an entire year’s policy. You can select your cover before deciding whether you want to continue with the same level of protection for the rest of the year.

Car Prep

After checking your car, you will be able to protect certain parts from the bad weather in the UK by performing some essential car maintenance.

Clean and protect the car battery terminals

If you have checked your car battery and it is in good health for the coming winter, cleaning the terminals and using a protectant spray will help them make it through the winter without corrosion.

Lubricate windows

Protecting your window tracks from drag caused by freezing water can help you avoid damaging them. Spraying the window tracks with a lubricant should minimise this risk.

Lubricate stripping, door locks, hinges and latches

Cleaning and lubricating the weather stripping between car doors can minimise the risk of your car doors freezing shut.

Lubricating door locks will also help minimise their freezing or corroding.

Lubricating your hood latch and door hinges are also recommended to ensure you don’t suffer from any corrosion during winter. Metal parts are particularly at risk because of the road salt and water at this time.

Fit winter tyres

Switching from summer tyres to winter tyres can be expensive and might not be necessary for most UK. They offer better grip and handling but work best in conditions below 7°C.

This can be a good option for those that use their car a lot during the winter.

Fit winter wiper blades

Winter blades are designed, so they don’t get packed with snow. A packed wiper blade will leave streaks across the windshield, reducing visibility.

Make A Winter Car Survival Kit

Now that your vehicle is winter-ready, you should consider packing and keeping an emergency kit in your car for winter. A well-stocked vehicle will be able to help you in any situation.

LED torch

Keeping a small LED torch in your car during the winter is always helpful. Most phones will have a torch, but having a separate light source can be invaluable if you are using your phone or trying to preserve the battery.

Mobile phone charger

If you are involved in an accident or break down, your phone will be a vital lifeline. Having a phone charger and even a portable battery pack will help should you run out of battery.

Pen and paper

A pen and paper are always handy to have in your car. This can be useful for taking down information on the phone or other drivers’ information if you are involved in an accident.

Tool kit

A basic tool kit should include duct tape, an adjustable wrench, pliers, and screwdrivers. You might not be able to fix all car problems, but having these tools can help resolve minor issues.

Grit or cat litter

If the temperature drops when you are out, it is possible that your vehicle can get stuck on ice or snow. Carrying grit or cat litter will allow the tyres to gain traction and get you moving again.

Jumper cables

Even if you have checked your battery before winter, mistakes like leaving the lights on can drain it. Keeping jumper cables in your can help you deal with a flat battery should it occur.

Shovel

Having a foldable shovel in your car won’t take up much space but can be helpful if there is heavy snowfall and you need to dig your car out.

First aid kit

A first aid kit should be kept in all cars to help deal with minor scrapes or cuts in an accident.

Winter clothing

Making sure you have warm clothes in your car during winter is advisable if you break down. Every winter survival kit should include a hat, gloves, and jacket.

Waterproof clothing or an umbrella can help if you wait outside the car in freezing rain.

Hi-visibility clothing, such as a bib, vest, or armband, should be included to make you more visible to other road users.

Blanket

If you break down in the winter and have to wait for breakdown assistance, having a warm blanket in your car will help keep you warm.

Warning triangle

Carrying warning triangles in case of an accident will allow you to alert other road users a safe distance away. This is especially important in winter when visibility is low and stopping distances are increased by wet or icy roads.

Scraper and de-icer

Being able to clear your windscreen and windows is important in the winter as you need to ensure you have maximum visibility. De-icer and a scraper will make this job a lot easier.

Food and drink

Having water and food in your car is essential if you get snowed in or break down. Bottled water and high-energy cereal bars should last through the winter.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your car for the winter will improve road safety and ensure you are ready for the worst-case scenario. Safely storing a winter emergency kit in your boot won’t take up much space but could be important.

Why is Car Insurance Mandatory?

29 November 2021 13:57 Leave a Comment

If you drive a car in the UK, you are legally required to be insured to drive it. This is because everyone who is driving needs to have a degree of financial protection. The minimum degree of insurance that you need to have is Third Party cover.

You might think that if you damage your car, this is your problem, and only you should be responsible for fixing the damage. However, the vast majority of accidents involve other parties, and the damage you might cause in an accident is often not to your own property. As a result, you need to have insurance that at least covers the third party in any accident you might have.

What is Insurance?

An Insurance policy is a type of contract. You take out this contract so that you receive financial protection or reimbursement again financial losses you might incur under certain circumstances. The insurance company charges you for this potential reimbursement based on how likely they feel they are to need to pay out.

What does car insurance cover?

Car Insurance can cover a wide variety of potential risks. How much cover you receive depends upon the level of cover that you purchase. Third Party insurance covers only the other parties in an accident, not you. Third Party, Fire and Theft insurance also covers you in the case of a fire or your car being stolen. Comprehensive Insurance covers both a third party in an accident, and you.

How do I check if I am insured?

It is possible to check if you are insured on a vehicle, or if a vehicle is insured at all. The Motor Insurer’s Database is a near-comprehensive database of which cars are insured, and by whom. The police use the MID to check if cars on the road are legal to drive, and private individuals can do the same.

What happens if I don’t have insurance?

If you don’t have insurance, you can be fined a fixed penalty of £300, and you will be given six points on your driving licence. If you go to court, you could face a greater fine – potentially unlimited. You could also be disqualified from driving.

Do I need insurance to drive someone else’s car?

Yes – you always need to be insured on a car to be able to drive it. You can drive a car you don’t own if you are insured to drive it. This comes either from being listed as a driver on someone else’s insurance, or you insuring yourself temporarily on a car that someone else owns.

Car Insurance from GoShorty

Car insurance is mandatory. However, getting temporary car insurance is easy with GoShorty. You don’t need to insure yourself for longer than you need to. At GoShorty, you can insure yourself to drive a car for between 1 hour and 28 days with short term car insurance. This can be on someone else’s car. With GoShorty, you don’t need to worry about getting insurance – only get the cover you need, and find out how much you could save compared to getting insured over a year.

Get a temporary insurance quote today

How do I Drive a New Car Home?

26 October 2021 13:05 Leave a Comment

Buying a car is supposed to be fun. You want to think about your options, the colour choices, or even just getting out on the road. However, it isn’t always as simple as you would like it to be.

When you buy a new car, you want to get it home as quickly as you can. However, you can’t just drive the car home. There are things you need to have, and things you need to do.

What do I need to do to drive a new car home?

When you buy a new car, it isn’t as simple as paying the seller and driving off with your new car. There are certain things that you need to do before the car is legally yours and suitable to drive.

Transfer the Ownership

The ownership of cars is expressed through the V5C form. This document proves who legally owns a car. If you want to buy a car, you need to update this document. If you are buying from a dealership, this will be something you do in the office. However, if you are buying from a private seller, you need to make sure that you do organise this yourself.

At the bottom of the V5C form, there is a section called V5C/2 – ‘New Keepers Details’. You need to fill this section out yourself, and keep it until you receive the new logbook in the post.

Make sure that the name and address of the owner match up. If they do not, then the previous transfers of ownership might not have not been done properly.

Tax the Vehicle

You need to tax the vehicle you have bought. This is as important as registering it under your ownership. If you are buying a car from a dealership, they may take care of this for you. If you are buying from a private seller, you will need to tax the vehicle yourself before you can drive it away.

You need to register for tax, even if the car itself is exempt from road tax. This is to register you as the appropriate person – you won’t actually be charged.

Insure the Vehicle

You need to insure the vehicle to be able to drive it. Insurance is a legal requirement for all vehicles. Even if you are only driving a few miles back home with your new car, you need to insure it to be able to drive it at all.

What do I need to have?

The V5C

You need to be in possession of the logbook or V5C. The current owner / seller should have the logbook if they are selling the car. It is possible to apply for a replacement V5C if you lose the existing logbook. When you buy the car, you should take the lower part of the form as a temporary logbook.

What sort of insurance do I need?

You need to have insurance in order to drive any vehicle. This leads to many people buying the wrong type of insurance for them because they are so keen to have any type of insurance.

However, there are a great many variables that go into insurance. Some of these are:

Length of insurance policy
Cover
Voluntary Excess
Optional Extras

Is one day insurance right for me?

Not everyone needs a traditional insurance policy. They are complicated, and feature a great many variables. This can often lead to people buying the wrong insurance for them. With temporary car insurance, you can get a cheap, simple insurance policy that allows you to drive the car away legally. Using short term car insurance, you can then decide on the right longer term insurance policy for you when the car is safely in your possession.

Get a temporary insurance quote today.

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What Happens if a Learner is Driving Alone?

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

Should You Call the Police After an Accident?

What Details Should You Take After an Accident?

What Happens if Someone Fails to Stop After an Accident?

Who’s Insurance Should You Call After an Accident?

How Soon Should You Report an Accident to Your Insurer?

How Long Do You Have to Make a Claim?

Will an Accident Affect Your Insurance?

What Happens After an Accident That Is Your Fault?

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Temporary Insurance from GoShorty

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