Van

The top benefits of van insurance in the UK

The main benefits of van insurance in the UK, from meeting the law and covering third party claims to protection against theft, damage and extra cover options.

Van insurance offers a range of benefits to van owners, whether the van is used for personal or business purposes. It helps you meet the law and protects you, your van and other road users. Here are the main benefits.

Legal compliance

You must have at least third party insurance to drive a van on public roads in the UK. Having a valid policy keeps you on the right side of the law. Driving without insurance can lead to a fixed penalty and penalty points, a court fine and disqualification, and your van being seized, according to GOV.UK.

Financial protection

Comprehensive van insurance can protect you against the cost of accidents, theft or damage to your van. Repairing or replacing a van can be expensive, and for many owners the van is how they earn a living. Having the right cover in place means a single incident is less likely to cause serious money problems.

Third party liability cover

Every van policy includes third party liability cover. This protects you if your van causes injury to other people or damage to their property. If you are found to be at fault, your insurer deals with the claim for compensation, repairs and legal costs, up to the limits of your policy, rather than you paying them yourself.

Protection against theft and vandalism

Vans, especially those used for work, can be targets for thieves and vandals. Third party, fire and theft and comprehensive policies cover theft of the van, and comprehensive policies can also cover vandalism and malicious damage. Tools and contents left in the van are often covered only in limited ways, if at all, so check the policy if this matters to you.

Personal accident cover

Some van policies include, or let you add, personal accident cover. This can pay a set amount if you or a passenger are seriously injured in an accident involving your van. What is covered and how much is paid varies a lot between policies.

Extra cover options

Van insurance can often be tailored with optional extras, such as:

• goods in transit, if you carry goods for your business
• breakdown cover, for roadside help if your van breaks down (see breakdown cover)
• cover for modifications or added equipment such as racking

If you carry goods for other people for payment, you will need hire and reward cover. See courier insurance.

Conclusion

Van insurance helps you meet the law, covers your liability to others and can protect your van against accidents, theft and vandalism. Choosing a policy that matches how you actually use your van means you get these benefits when you need them.

Kompare works with specialist van insurance brokers. You fill in a short form and a specialist, FCA-authorised broker from our panel contacts you about quotes. Find out more about van insurance.