Here are the questions we’ve received on van insurance in relation to coronavirus.
What happens if I can’t afford to pay for my policy?
The financial impact of coronavirus is affecting individuals and businesses up and down the country – we understand how worrying this time may be for you. The government is offering a range of support packages to help people through this difficult period, details of which can be found on the government website.
However, if you’re struggling to keep up with your monthly payments, please call us. Our phone lines are extremely busy at the moment, so getting through may take longer than usual – but bear with us, we want to help.
Our opening hours are Monday to Friday, 8am-6pm.
I am not using my van due to the coronavirus outbreak. Can I suspend my van insurance?
No, it’s not possible to suspend your policy. If your van is parked on a road or in another public place, it must be registered even if it’s not in use. Your policy will also provide cover for damage, fire and theft – which still remain a risk.
However, if you’re struggling to make payments during this worrying time, please call us. We’ll do our best to help.
Alternatively, you can also register your vehicle as off the road and apply for a SORN. If you decide to take this action because of coronavirus and want to cancel your policy, we won’t charge a cancellation fee.
I’m self-isolating and need someone to drive my van to pick up supplies for me. Will they be covered?
Anyone who drives your van needs to be named on your certificate of motor insurance, or they won’t be insured. This applies even if they have a ‘Driving Other Cars’ section on their personal car insurance, as your van is a different type of vehicle.
The easiest way to add a named driver to your policy is in your Swift Space.
If I have to drive to work now instead of getting public transport, will my van insurance cover me?
Yes. All Swiftcover van insurance policies cover journeys to a single place of work, as standard.
I’m classed as a key worker and have been advised to use my own vehicle for work, rather than a work or company vehicle. Do I need to let you know?
Yes. If your work is critical to the national response to coronavirus – and you need to use your own van to travel to different locations for work purposes – your cover will not be affected. However, please contact us so we can make a note on your policy.
If I have an accident, can I get my van repaired or replaced?
Yes. Our main priority is to make sure our customers continue to have their claims handled and paid during these challenging times. Given the disruptions to international transport and manufacturing, please be aware it may take longer than usual to get the necessary parts to repair your van.
I’m delivering food and medicine to neighbours or vulnerable people in the community who are self-isolating. Does my van insurance cover me for this?
Yes. As long as there is no element of profit involved and you aren’t using your van in connection with a food delivery business, your Swiftcover van insurance will cover you. You do not need to tell us or change your cover.
I have registered with the NHS Volunteer Responders scheme and will be volunteering as part of the coronavirus response. Am I covered if I use my van to carry out my duties?
Yes. If you are part of an NHS volunteer scheme, we will provide cover for the delivery of goods and medication, and the transport of patients. There is no need to update your cover or contact us.
I can’t arrange my van MOT because of coronavirus. What should I do?
If your MOT was due by the 29th March 2020 and has expired
The government has outlined what you need to do if your MOT was due by the 29th March 2020 – details can be found on the Government website.
If you are not self-isolating or vulnerable to coronavirus, you should book your MOT test at any open test centre – these remain open and you still need an MOT to continue driving on the road. If you or someone you live with has symptoms of coronavirus, please book an MOT test once your period of self-isolation is over.
If you are extremely vulnerable to coronavirus, do not take your van for its MOT. The Department of Transport is working with the police and insurers to make you won’t be penalised.
If your MOT is due on or after the 30th March 2020
The government has announced a 6-month extension for all MOTs due on or after the 30th March 2020 – more details can be found on the Government website.
However, you must still keep your vehicle in a roadworthy condition. Drivers can be prosecuted if they drive an unsafe vehicle.