The vehicle insurance comparison website EasyQuote has warned drivers of a common mistake that could see their policy being cancelled.
With the cost of motoring on the rise, many drivers are looking for ways to reduce the amount they pay for car insurance and avoid any pitfalls that could see them paying more in the long run.
However, Chris Chirard, owner of EasyQuote, warned motorists that they should always make sure that the address on their car insurance forms is accurate.
He explained: “Ensuring your policy details accurately reflect your current living situation is not just about compliance, it’s about protection.
“Students, particularly, need to be vigilant as their frequent moves can easily lead to oversight. An up-to-date policy is your best defence against unexpected financial burdens stemming from an invalidated insurance claim.”
In particular, EasyQuote highlighted that university students in particular could be at risk from this mistake, with many moving out of their family home for the first time and changing address each year.
Whilst students may ultimately return home after they graduate, car insurers insist that the address provided by motorists is where the vehicle will typically be parked.
This is done to assess the crime rates in the particular area and determine how much of a risk the vehicle could be in from thieves and, in some cases, natural disasters such as flooding.
In order to change the main address whilst a policy is still active, motorists will need to log on to their insurers website or make a phone call.
Many insurers will charge an admin fee for making an alteration to the policy, which is typically cheaper if done online, and the overall cost of cover may also be affected.
Whilst this means that drivers could have to pay more for keeping their car in another part of the country, lower risk areas could see them get money back.
Nevertheless, however much a driver is charged for changing the address on their insurance policy, it is necessary in order to stay on the road.
If a driver files a claim and the insurer learns that any information on their policy is inaccurate, the company is within their rights to refuse to pay out.
In many cases, the insurer would also cancel the policy, which could mean that they are unable to get cover with that particular company in the future and face higher prices with competitors.
