Optional extras for van insurance

Van insurance policies can differ, so make sure you check your policy documents to see what is included as standard on your policy. You can also see what optional extras are available.

Legal protection

Covers legal costs if they arise from an accident which happens whilst you are driving.
Helps to recover uninsured losses (such as solicitors fees etc) from the other driver's insurance company if you were involved in a non fault claim.
Can arrange for a solicitor to pursue the claim for compensation if you are injured.
Generally helps with the recovery of the excess on your policy, medical losses or loss of earnings - very important if you are self employed.

Breakdown cover

Assists in getting your van back on the road or to a garage if you breakdown. There are different levels of covers such as:

Recovery/Relay - if your van can not be fixed locally you will be taken to any mainland destination.
Home Start - this covers you if your van breaks down at home or near your home.
Onward Travel - if you breakdown away from home and your van can not be repaired quickly, you will generally be provided with either a replacement hire vehicle or overnight accommodation or reasonable onward travel expenses.
European Cover - breakdown protection when driving in Europe, usually 31 days per trip and 909 days per year in total. However you will need to check with your provider which European countries you will be covered in.

Insurance while driving abroad and green cards

A green card (which can be obtained from your insurance company) provides basic Road Traffic Act cover for driving while on holiday abroad.
Recognised in over 40 countries. Once again, contact your insurance company to check which countries are covered.
Please note, insurance companies may charge for extending the same level of cover you have abroad as you have at home.

Courtesy van cover

Basic cover provides you with a van if you have an accident and needs repairing.
An enhanced policy will provide you with a replacement hire vehicle if your van is stolen or written off.

Personal accident cover

Basic cover provides a small payout to you or your passengers for a limited set of injuries like; permanent and total loss of sight in one or both eyes, loss of or permanent damage to one or more limbs.
Personal accident cover will also cover death.
Enhanced cover increases the financial payouts you receive.