Taking our car to France - do we tell our insurance company?

[emeralds]

We are taking the ferry to France next month for the first time. Do we need to tell our insurance company or are we covered for driving abroad? We have taken out European breakdown Roadside rescue (with a different company) but wondering about our own insurance? Might be on hold for a day if I ring them so thought I would ask here first!

 

[Eithneangela]

We take our car to France every year, but it's included in our standard insurance policy. I think most policies (comprehensive) cover travel in other European countries for less than 30 days.

 

[emeralds]

Great. Thank you for that!

 

[mathepac]

yes OP, you are obliged to inform your insurers of your planned European trip.

 

[emeralds]

Thank you for that too. Will call them tomorrow....

 

[rayn]

Thank you for that too. Will call them tomorrow....

Don't forget your first aid kit, warning triangle and lights adjustment.

 

[PMU]

Don't forget your first aid kit, warning triangle and lights adjustment.

You also need to carry a high vis vest (i.e. gilet de securite) http://www.securite-routiere.gouv.fr/connaitre-les-regles/le-vehicule/le-triangle-et-le-gilet. Note the vest must be with you in the vehicle. If you have it in the boot and get out to retrieve it you run the risk of being fined.

You are also required to have a breathalyser in the vehicle http://www.securite-routiere.gouv.fr/connaitre-les-regles/le-vehicule/ethylotest but the penalty for not carrying one has been suspended (I think).