by Jamie Gibbs
Volunteers using their cars to help out in their local communities are in turn to be given a helping hand by insurers in the form of reduced car insurance premiums.
More than 85 per cent of the car insurance market - 54 insurance brands - have promised not to charge extra premiums for those who use their cars to help their local community.
In essence, this means volunteers will not have to declare business use for their car when they use it to take part in community activities, such as taking the elderly and infirm to doctor or hospital appointments.
The ABI said the move was in support of the Big Society initiative launched by the government.
Otto Thoresen, ABI director general, said: “Volunteers are a critical part of our communities. Motor insurers have given a clear commitment that they do not want to stand in the way of volunteer driving, by not charging extra premiums.”
“The commitment to help those who use their own car to help others applies to private car insurance policies.”
Alastair McDougall of volunteering charity, WRVS, said: “This marks real progress. Over 10,000 volunteers use their cars to help older people for WRVS. Last year they covered over 3.5 million miles. We know there are going to be a lot more older people in Britain in the years ahead and WRVS is going to grow to meet that need. Overcoming isolation is one of the targets to help older people, and that often involves driving.”
Those who use their car for volunteering purposes should check if their car insurance provider has made the commitment with the Association of British Insurers, where they can also find details of any exceptional circumstances, and contacts.
Community First Responders and ‘Blue Light’ volunteers are generally excluded from this commitment, but some insurers have indicated that they would offer cover. If this applies to you, contact your insurer directly.
