Driving abroad this summer? Here’s an insurance checklist

AS THE great summer getaway continues, motorists heading for a European escape by car are being urged to take care.

Admiral has revealed the number of insurance claims for accidents abroad it has dealt with has risen 9% in the past 12 months and 150% in the past five years, with August seeing spikes in overseas claims.

Here’s Admiral’s checklist if you have an accident while driving abroad:

■ 1. Take your documents – including certificate of motor insurance, driving licence and vehicle registration document – abroad with you.

■ 2. Make sure you save your insurance company’s contact details on your phone.

■ 3. Ensure you have sufficient travel insurance for you and your family as many motor insurance policies only cover the car and not onward travel for you and your luggage.

■ 4. If you are involved in an accident, make a note of where the accident happened, including the date and time. Use your smartphone to see the exact location and take a screenshot.

■ 5. Take pictures of the accident at a safe distance. Also take photos of the vehicles involved; make sure you have a good photo of the registration number on the front and back of all vehicles.

■ 6. Take all witness details, names, addresses, telephone numbers and email addresses.

■ 7. Ask the local authority to recover the car if you can. Make sure you have their address and contact details and know where they are taking your car.

■ 8. Most importantly, remain calm, stay safe and phone your car insurer and your travel insurer if you need onward travel.