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A specialist provider can answer specific questions about minibus insurance but this article provides some background information including legal requirements, levels of insurance, types of insurance and driving abroad.
1. The Law
Every vehicle in the UK must have insurance. The minimum level of cover is third party.
If the minibus is being used as a taxi then you will require additional insurance for the “carriage of persons for hire or reward”. Public liability can be included with taxi minibus insurance to comply with local government requirements. A minibus taxi operator must have an indemnity limit of at least £5 million.
2. Levels of Insurance
The three levels of insurance are Comprehensive, Third Party Fire and Theft, and Third Party Only.
Third Party will cover for injury to others and damage to their property in connection with the use of your vehicle.
By adding Fire and Theft the minibus is covered if damaged when stolen or being involved in a fire.
Comprehensive is the highest level of minibus insurance and will cover most foreseeable risks.
Each level of insurance can have certain ‘add ons’, depending on the minibus’s use. The most popular is ‘legal protection insurance’.
3. Types of Insurance
Five types of insurance include:
a) MPV
b) Taxi
c) Charity
d) Family
e) Fleet
MPV insurance is used by commercial operators such as nursing homes and education establishments. Fleet insurance is popular with larger organisations that operate more than one vehicle.
4. Driving Abroad
When driving in Europe a ‘green card’ provides the same level of minibus insurance as in the UK for a maximum of 90 days.
Travelling within EU member states and ASOR signatory states (Norway, Switzerland, Turkey and some Eastern European Countries) requires a control document in the form of a ‘waybill’ or an ‘own account certificate’.
Other documentation that should be carried on the vehicle at all times includes the minibus insurance certificate, European accident form and a vehicle registration document.
It is best to seek advice from a specialist minibus insurance provider to find the right policy for your needs.
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