Car insurers have this week pledged that they will not raise premiums for customers who fit winter tyres.
The Association of British Insurers (ABI), which represents 90 per cent of Britain’s motor insurers, said that policyholders should not face extra charges for using winter tyres, provided they are fitted in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions and are roadworthy.
In the past, some providers have treated winter tyres as a vehicle modification and raised premiums as a result.
Insurers often increase costs for modified vehicles if they are made more powerful – for example with a bigger engine – and therefore more likely to be involved in accidents, or if the changes make the car more desirable to thieves.
But the ABI confirms that neither issue applies to winter tyres, which are designed to improve a vehicle’s grip in snowy or icy conditions.
Nick Starling, ABI’s director of general insurance, said: “Insurers do not want to penalise motorists who take steps, like fitting winter tyres, to improve their safety on dangerous winter roads.
“Last year cold weather came early and there was some uncertainty for customers about the insurance implications of fitting winter tyres. This commitment clarifies the position for motorists.”
Inform your insurer
The ABI did add that some providers – including AXA, Prudential and Swiftcover – require customers to inform them if they are fitting winter tyres. A full list, along with contact details, can be found on the ABI’s website.
Some firms, such as Co-operative Insurance and Tesco, say that they will only keep premiums at the existing level if the new winter tyres are no larger than those they are replacing.
For more information about winter tyres and to help you decide whether they are a worthwhile investment, check out our guide here.
