Millions of drivers could be at risk of making a crucial car insurance mistake in the lead-up to Christmas as Britons prepare to buy their loved ones presents.
Christmas is less than a month ago and many drivers will be making use of the Black Friday sales to get presents, with some even using the car boot as a way to store their presents for the next few weeks.
However, experts are warning against this practice as it could lead to motorists being left out of pocket if their car is damaged or stolen.
New research has found that seven per cent of people are planning to hide presents in the back of their car – meaning around three million Britons could be taking the risk.
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Millions of drivers could be at risk of car insurance issues soon
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If there is a clear view of the presents in the car boot, opportunistic criminals could take advantage and steal them, potentially ruining Christmas and leaving them with an insurance headache.
Experts have warned that in the event of a theft, their car insurance policies may not cover the cost of replacing them.
Analysis from almost 300 comprehensive car insurance policies found that 22 per cent provide cover for less than £200 worth of personal possessions in the car.
Shockingly, eight per cent do not provide any cover at all, with only 20 per cent of policies covering possessions worth £500 or more.
Tom Banks, car insurance spokesperson at Go.Compare, said drivers are putting themselves at risk by not hiding their presents and risking a break-in.
He continued, saying: “It’s never a good idea to keep valuables in your car, no matter the time of year.
“Not only can it make it more attractive for thieves to break in, but the level of cover on your insurance policy could mean you won’t be compensated for the loss of any presents you were hiding in the boot.”
The expert also noted how some insurance companies will only cover the loss or damage or “everyday items”, potentially creating a loophole for gifts.
Third party, fire and theft policy (TPFT) or Third Party Only (TPO) car insurance policies are unlikely to have any cover of personal possessions at all.
The research found that more than one-third (35 per cent) of people will be hiding their presents in a wardrobe or cupboard.
Other popular places include under the bed (12 per cent), in the attic (11 per cent), under the tree (11 per cent) and at a friend or at a relative’s house (five per cent).
Banks added: “Our analysis shows that the level of personal possessions cover offered by insurers can vary and if the gifts in your car aren’t classed as ‘everyday items’, then you might not be awarded compensation.
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Around three million people are expected to leave their presents in their car boot
GO.COMPARE
“So, it’s best to give this hiding place a miss – and instead join the 35 per cent of people who are stashing their gifts in the wardrobe this Christmas.”
