Exclusions

Every car insurance policy has certain exclusions, that is, things for which you are not covered. They usually fall under one of the following headings: general exclusions and own damage exclusions.

Most of the exclusions are industry-wide and apply to every car insurance policy, regardless of the insurer you choose. Other exclusions differ depending on your insurer's particular policy. You should refer to your policy booklet to ascertain the exact exclusions that apply to your insurance policy.

General Exclusions

The General Exclusions define the limits of your car insurance cover, detailing the scenarios in which you would not be insured. In general, these exclusions protect the insurer from exceptional circumstances which would result in huge pay-outs, or from situations where another insurance policy would cover the cost instead.

Most insurers will follow a very similar set of exclusions which include for example: use of your car for a purpose not specified in your contract; deliberate damage caused by you; failure to pay your premium.

In addition, exceptional circumstances, such as: damage or loss of your car caused by radioactive contamination, nuclear explosion, war, terrorism or earthquake, are also likely to be excluded.

Own Damage Exclusions

Own damage exclusions generally refer to damage or loss which is expected as a normal consequence of using your car, such as: wear, tear and depreciation, mechanical or electrical breakdown, and tyre damage. In addition, you may not be covered if you leave your keys in, or on your car, nor in the event of your car being confiscated by the UK government.