When you are planning that next driving adventure abroad you need to be aware of a number of things relating to your insurance policy and breakdown cover which may will be different than if you are driving in your home country.

For example your policy may cover accidents in specific countries only and any if you plan to drive in a non-specified country then you may need to take out additional insurance.

So what exactly do you need to be aware of?

Taking the right documents

When you driving in the European countries listed below you can use your Certificate of Motor Insurance instead of a Green Card. The Green Card is an International Motor Insurance Card and is an internationally recognised document, which indicates that, as the holder, you have the minimum insurance cover required by law in the country you are visiting. A green card is not required for driving in the EU, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Croatia or Liechtenstein.

Long Trips and Business Travel

If you are planning to take your car to Europe for more than 90 days then you should let your insurance company know well in advance so that the relevant paperwork can be made ready.

Countries Covered

In the UK most insurance companies will cover you for a specific number of European countries which are part of the European Union (EU).

These countries are:

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.

You are also covered for the following non-EU countries:

Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Croatia and Liechtenstein.

Breakdown Cover

Most insurance companies are happy to provide a specific breakdown cover policy for the duration of you trip abroad. This is recommended, as it will include things such as an English-speaking phone line to help get breakdown rescue help. It may also include a vehicle replacement, which can let you get on with your holiday.

Insurance Company Notification

Once you plan your holiday abroad you should contact your insurance company as soon as you know your full plans. That way they can also advise you on any other things, which you may not have considered and they can get all the necessary paperwork, sorted for your departure.

Conclusion

If your insurance company does not provide you with or you have no paid for car insurance abroad then it can lead to a lot of trouble plus it will be so much harder if you don't speak the language. With the right insurance and preparations in place you can at least put your mind at rest knowing that you and your family will be covered if you are unfortunate enough to have an accident or breakdown in unfamiliar territory.