Motorists who have taken a speed awareness course are being advised to disclose this information when applying for car insurance, as failure to do so could lead to invalidated policies and higher premiums. This warning comes amid concerns that many drivers are unaware of the potential implications of nondisclosure on their insurance costs.
In 2022, approximately 1.5 million drivers in the UK completed a national speed awareness course, with an additional 168,000 attending a national motorway awareness course. These courses are often offered as an alternative to penalty points for minor speeding violations, aimed at improving driving behavior without affecting the driver’s record.
Mark Tongue, joint CEO and founder of Select Car Leasing emphasized the importance of transparency with insurance providers. He stated, “The reality is that some insurers might view the need to attend such a course as indicative of sub-standard driving behavior, which could mean they charge slightly higher premiums despite the motorist having no formal penalty on their record.”
The legal and contractual consequences of nondisclosure can be significant. If an insurance application form specifically asks about attendance at a speed awareness course and a policyholder fails to disclose this, the insurer may deem the policy invalid. This could lead to severe financial repercussions in the event of an accident or claim.
Tongue advised, “If you’re unsure whether you need to disclose your attendance at a speed awareness course, it’s best to always answer any questions with honesty to ensure any insurance you have in place remains valid and that you don’t fall foul of the law.”
Insurance companies vary in how they handle disclosures related to speed awareness courses. While some may not require this information, others consider it vital for assessing risk and determining premium rates. Drivers are encouraged to read their policy terms carefully and discuss their specific situation with their insurer to avoid any misunderstandings.
This cautionary advice highlights the broader issue of insurance transparency and the need for clear communication between insurers and policyholders. As always, honesty in insurance dealings ensures that coverage remains effective and that drivers are fully protected on the roads.
