Table of Contents
Steps to Obtain Car Insurance After a Driving Ban
Key Considerations When Applying for Insurance
Legal Requirements and Financial Considerations
Driving bans usually arise following severe traffic violations or by accumulating 12 penalty points on your driving licence. This could be for a number of reasons, but a ban can have significant implications for a driver and can have a significant professional and social impact.
One of the main concerns for drivers emerging from a ban is obtaining car insurance. This comprehensive guide explores considerations for securing car insurance after a driving ban, offering detailed insights.
Below are 5 common reasons people end up receiving driving bans in the UK.
Understanding Driving Bans
There are many driving-related misdemeanors that could result in a driving ban, and they can be imposed for various reasons, including:
- Exceeding the Speed Limit: Driving significantly over the speed limit.
- Driving Under the Influence: Being caught driving while intoxicated.
- Accumulating Penalty Points: Reaching 12 or more penalty points on your driving license within three years.
- Dangerous Driving: Engaging in reckless driving behaviours.
- Other Serious Offences Include driving without insurance or being involved in hit-and-run incidents.
Duration of Driving Bans
The length of a driving ban can vary and tends to fall into two categories:
- Short-Term Bans: Usually last from a few weeks to several months.
- Long-Term Bans: Can extend to several years.
The exact duration depends on the severity of the offence and the history of the driver in question.
How long my driving ban will last?
According to Gov.uk, the court decide how long the disqualification will last, based on how serious they think the offence is.
You can be banned from driving if you already have 12 or more penalty points on your licence. Your ban can last:
- 6 months, if you get 12 or more penalty points within 3 years.
- 12 months, if you get a second disqualification within 3 years.
- 2 years, if you get a third disqualification within 3 years.
The exact duration depends on the severity of the offence and the driver’s history.
Impact of a Driving Ban on Car Insurance
How can a ban effect your car insurance? The accumulation of a driving ban will essentially mean you are considered a higher risk, and some insurers may not be willing to take that risk. This often leads to:
- Higher Premiums: Expect a significant increase in insurance costs.
- Limited Options: Some insurers may refuse to cover previously banned drivers.
Required Documentation
When applying for car insurance after a ban, be prepared to provide:
- Details of the Ban: Including the reason and duration.
- Driving Record: A history of your driving convictions.
- Rehabilitation Course Certificates: If applicable, certificates from completed courses, such as the Drink Drive Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS).
Steps to Obtain Car Insurance After a Driving Ban
Assess Your Driving Record
Understanding your driving record is crucial. Obtain a copy of your driving license record from the DVLA to review:
- Penalty Points: Check for any remaining points on your license.
- Ban Details: Verify the start and end dates of your ban.
Shop Around for Specialist Insurers
Not all insurers are willing to cover previously banned drivers. Here at Acorn Insurance, we specialise in policies that will consider insuring drivers who have previously been banned or disqualified from driving.
Consider Black Box Insurance
Telematics or black box insurance can be a viable option. This type of policy involves installing a device in your car that monitors your driving habits. Benefits include:
- Potential Discounts: Safe driving can lead to lower premiums over time.
- Improved Driving Habits: Encourages safer driving practices.
Complete Rehabilitation Courses
Completing a rehabilitation course can positively influence insurers. Courses like the DDRS demonstrate a commitment to safer driving. Benefits include:
- Reduced Penalty Points: Completion may lead to a reduction in penalty points.
Reducing length of ban – Your ban will be reduced if you complete the course within a certain time. The ban is usually reduced by a quarter.
Increase Your Voluntary Excess
Increasing your voluntary excess — the amount you agree to pay towards a claim — can reduce your premium. However, ensure you can afford the excess if you need to make a claim.
Key Considerations When Applying for Insurance
Be Honest About Your Driving History
Complete transparency with insurers is critical. Providing false information can result in:
- Policy Cancellation: Immediate cancellation of your policy.
- Claims Rejection: Denial of any claims you make.
- Legal Consequences: Potential legal action for insurance fraud.
Regularly Review Your Policy
Once you’ve secured your insurance, regularly review your policy and shop around annually.
Legal Requirements and Financial Considerations
Legal Requirements
Even after a driving ban, you must meet legal requirements to drive in the UK:
- Valid Driving License: Ensure your license is reinstated and valid.
- MOT and Tax: Your vehicle must have a valid MOT certificate and be taxed.
- Insurance: Driving without insurance is illegal and can lead to severe penalties.
Financial Considerations
A driving ban can have long-term financial implications:
- Increased Insurance Costs: Higher premiums can strain your budget.
- Potential Loss of Income: If your job requires driving, a ban can impact your employment and income.
Support and Resources
Organisations Offering Support
Several organisations provide support and resources for drivers recovering from a ban:
- Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA): Offers information on driving bans and license reinstatement.
- Drinkaware: Provides resources for managing alcohol consumption and avoiding future offenses.
- RoadPeace: Offers support to those affected by road traffic incidents and advocates for road safety.
Useful Websites and Contacts
- Gov.uk: For official information on driving licenses, bans, and vehicle requirements.
- Citizens Advice: Legal advice and support regarding driving bans and insurance.
- Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB): For information on uninsured driving and related consequences.
Key Points to Remember
Securing car insurance after a driving ban is challenging but can be achievable with the right approach.
- Understand your driving record
- Shop around for specialised car insurers
- Consider telematics policies
- Demonstrate a commitment to safer driving through rehabilitation courses
- Always be honest about your driving history
With diligence and patience, you can navigate the complexities of post-ban car insurance and get back on the road safely and legally. This guide should help you consider what you could do to rebuild your driving record and regain the freedom and convenience of driving.
Acorn is a specialist insurance company helping customers that may not usually be served by standard insurers. We take time to understand your car insurance needs, so why not get a hassle-free quote for specialist car insurance now to see if we can help*.
Should you find yourself looking for car insurance following a ban — Get an Online Car Insurance Quote Today OR call our team now! Discuss your needs with us, and we will help you find a policy that works for you!
*your driving ban must have expired at time of the quote