Preparing for a no-deal Brexit
BIBA has launched a new resource for members to help navigate the challenges – visit https://bibabrexitguide.org.uk/
View our 2020 Manifesto here and our new micro-site here.
BIBA has been working closely with the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) and the Department for Transport(DFT) regarding potential changes to the requirements for driving and travelling in Europe if we leave the EU without a deal.
Though matters may change, at present you need to make your motor and travel insurance clients aware that change is coming and help them prepare if they are planning to visit the EU after 31 October.
Motor insurance
Without a Withdrawal Agreement in place, motorists and motorcyclists driving their vehicles in the EU and EEA will need a Green Card as evidence of valid insurance. It would be wise to check with your motor insurers that they are fully prepared to issue Green Cards – which at the moment must be on Green Paper and in hard copy. Electronic versions are not acceptable.
This includes motorists crossing the border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Though not related to insurance, motorists will need to have a GB sticker* on their car and will need (as they do now) to comply with the relevant legal requirements of the country they are travelling in such as the requirement to have an International Driving permit in some countries.
Trailers and caravans
Trailers and caravans will also need a separate Green Card and, if they are registered with the DVLA, the trailer registration number should be shown on the Green Card.
Travel insurance
At present, a UK citizen can use a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access state-provided medical care if they need it. We have always advised that holidaymakers should not assume that their EHIC is a substitute for travel insurance which provides so much more on top of medical expenses cover, including cancellation and repatriation.
Without a deal, EHICs will no longer be recognised, which serves to emphasise the importance of having suitable travel insurance.
*The denomination to identify a vehicle from the UK is currently GB which includes NI
Information
Members can access our previous technical update on motor insurance here https://www.biba.org.uk/technical-updates/motor/green-cards-post-20-march-2019/
But the situation remains fluid and you and your customers can access up to date information from Government, the ABI and the FCA.
https://www.gov.uk/visit-europe-brexit
https://www.fca.org.uk/consumers/how-brexit-could-affect-you