It is usually an exciting adventure to drive on another country roads whether you are going on a business trip, for study or just want to enjo holidays. In the United Kingdom, the roads might be familiar, yet the regulations can differ with the ones experienced in other nations. To top it all, UK law obliges you to have proper temporary car insurance UK for non residentsprior to legal driving. To non-residents, it is critical to learn driving laws of the UK and secure temporary insurance in order to be on the road.
According to Sarah Smith, a non resident car insurance specialist at QuoteRadar, “Regardless of whether you are borrowing the car of a friend, driving a family car, or intending to keep the vehicle long enough, understanding legal need will allow you to avoid fines, penalties, or useless temporary car insurance for non uk resident”.
Understanding UK Road Rules:
One of the first differences which one notices upon visiting the country is that the people are driving on the left hand side of the road. This can be difficult to adjust to, especially at crossroads and roundabouts. In the UK, roundabouts are rather popular and the driver is expected to give way to the car traffic on his right unless the road signs show the opposite.
The speed limits are highly observed using cameras and police patrols. In most cases:
- 30 mph applies in built-up areas
- The speed limit of 60 mph is applied in single carriageways.
- 70 mph applies on motorways
It is mandatory to wear seatbelts fro drivers as well as for passengers. Use of a handheld mobile phone whilst driving is illegal. The alcohol laws of driving are also tough and there are low legal levels of alcohol limits compared with other countries. Violation of such rules may lead to fines or penalty points on your licence or even driving ban.
Is a Foreign Driving Licence Accepted?
In the UK, a large number of non-residents are allowed to drive on their home country licence to a maximum of 12 months. This, however, is dependent on the country in which the licence was issued. Certain drivers might as well be required to carry International Driving Permit (IDP) with their original licence.
Official guidance should also be checked when travelling. Any temporary car insurance cover for non uk residentsyou purchase can be invalidated in case your licence is not recognised. Always carry your licence.
Is Car Insurance A Legal Requirement in UK?
You must have enough temporary car insurance UK for non residents to drive legally. Each vehicle that is being driven on the road ought to have atleast third party insurance. This includes harm or losses to other individuals, cars or homes. It does not provide coverage to the damage of the car you are driving. Temporary car insurance UK for non residents can be of three kinds:
- Third-party only insurance — The legal minimum cover.
- Third, party, fire and theft insurance — This is insurance that is provided in the event that the car is either stolen or burned.
- Comprehensive insurance — Covers the claims of other parties including damage to your property.
The consequences of driving without an insurance may include:
- A £300 fixed penalty fine
- Six-point penalty on your licence.
- The vehicle being seized
- A possible court appearance
What Is Temporary Car Insurance For Non-UK Residents?
Temporary Car Insurance For Non-Uk Residents is a short term insurance which may take one hour to a couple of months depending on the provider. This kind of temporary car insurance UK for non residents offers the best cover for those who:
- Are borrowing cars of a friend or a family member.
- Are renting privately
- Just need a vehicle for a short trip.
- Need a more flexible cover but no long-term policy.
Temporary car insurance UK for non residents policies will not be part of insurance of the main vehicle owner. This implies that it does not normally have an impact on their no-claims bonus.
Hiring a Car in the UK:
When you are hiring a car under a rental company, temporary car insurance UK for non residents is usually included in the charges. Basic temporary car insurance UK for non residentscover can however contain a high excess (amount that you will pay in case of a claim).
You can:
- Expect to pay a high premium to minimise the excess amount.
- Purchase individual excess insurance.
- See whether your travel insurance covers car hire cover.
- Read the rental agreement thoroughly before signing.
Final Thoughts:
There is no problem in driving in the UK as a non-resident but it do comes with responsibilities. Not only do you need to have the proper temporary car insurance UK for non residents, you must observe the local driving rules, and your licence must be recognised. Short-term insurance is an option that can be convenient and easy in case you are visiting temporarily.
Take time to know the rules, drive and be insured at any age. By doing the proper preparation, you can be free to explore the UK safely and legally.
