Drivers warned December car insurance mistake means they 'won't be compensated'

James Rodger
·2-min read
Drivers warned December car insurance mistake means they 'won't be compensated'
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


Millions of drivers risk car insurance havoc within weeks as road users 'won't be compensated' for claims, experts have warned. Many drivers will be making use of the Black Friday sales to get presents ahead of Christmas Day on December 25.

But using the car boot for storage brings with it a whole host of risks. Experts are warning against this practice as it could lead to motorists being left out of pocket if their car is damaged or stolen, with motorists across the country warned.

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. If there is a clear view of the presents in the car boot, criminals could swoop.

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Experts have warned that in the event of a theft, their car insurance policies may not cover the cost of replacing them. Tom Banks, car insurance spokesperson at Go.Compare, said: "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." And Mr 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."

"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," Mr Banks went on to warn ahead of the festive rush for motorists.

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