These Car Accessories Void Your Car Insurance

The UK’s love for cars runs deep, with 18% of Brits giving their vehicles affectionate nicknames and a growing trend in personalizing cars with everything from custom plates to quirky stickers. According to new driver car insurance experts at Zego, the average Brit searches for car stickers 5,100 times a month on Google. However, many drivers may be unaware that some popular car accessories could invalidate their insurance or lead to hefty fines.

Zego’s experts have highlighted seven common car accessories that could jeopardize your insurance coverage or even land you in legal trouble. Here’s what UK drivers need to know to stay safe and insured on the road:

These Car Accessories Void Your Car Insurance

1. ‘Baby on Board’ and Similar Signs

Signs like ‘Baby on Board,’ ‘Anxious Driver,’ or ‘Elderly Driver’ are often used to promote safer driving by others. However, if these signs are placed incorrectly and obstruct the driver’s view, they can become a hazard. In the event of an accident, such obstructions could lead to a rejected insurance claim, leaving drivers out of pocket.

2. Air Fresheners and Hanging Objects

While fuzzy dice may be a thing of the past, air fresheners, rosary beads, or dreamcatchers hanging from the rear-view mirror remain popular. These items, if large enough, can block a driver’s view of pedestrians, cyclists, or road signs, increasing the risk of accidents and potentially voiding insurance coverage.

3. Bumper Stickers and Decals

Many drivers assume cosmetic changes like bumper stickers or decals don’t need to be reported to insurers since they don’t affect performance. However, Zego warns that all modifications, even minor ones, must be declared. For example, a business decal might suggest commercial use, requiring specialized insurance. Stickers can also increase theft risk if they hint at valuable items inside the vehicle, impacting how insurers assess risk.

4. Football Flags

With football team flags available for as little as 50p, it’s tempting for fans to show their team spirit. However, these flags can carry significant risks. Improperly secured flags may lead to fines of up to £2,500, especially if they obstruct the driver’s view or become a distraction. Additionally, they could make your car a target for vandalism or theft, potentially complicating insurance claims.

5. Dashboard Ornaments

From bobbleheads to plush toys like Jellycats, dashboard decorations are a fun way to personalize a car. However, if these items are not securely fixed, they can become distractions or obstruct the driver’s view. Decorations like bedazzled dashboards could also worsen injuries during airbag deployment, leading to insurance complications in the event of an accident.

6. Seasonal Decorations

Festive accessories like Christmas lights, mini trees, or themed spare wheel covers can bring holiday cheer but also pose risks. These decorations can distract drivers or others on the road, increase the likelihood of theft or vandalism, or even create fire hazards. Such issues could lead to rejected insurance claims or legal penalties.

7. Steering Wheel, Gear Shift, and Handbrake Covers

Covers for steering wheels, gear shifts, or handbrakes are a growing trend, especially on platforms like TikTok, as they add style and comfort. However, these accessories can reduce grip and control, potentially leading to dangerous driving. Zego warns that losing control due to a cover could result in up to 11 points on your license and a rejected insurance claim.

Why It Matters

Zego emphasizes that these accessories don’t just risk invalidating insurance—they can also lead to serious penalties. Obstructing a driver’s vision could result in an on-the-spot fine of £100, which could escalate to £1,000 if taken to court, along with three points on your license. To avoid accidents, rejected claims, or legal trouble, drivers should consult their insurer before adding any accessories.

“Many of these popular accessories for your car pose not only an insurance risk but also could land you with hefty fines and points on your license,” Zego’s experts explain. “It is always important to seek guidance for car accessories before purchasing to avoid accidents, rejected insurance claims, and penalties.”

Stay Safe and Insured

As car customization continues to gain popularity, UK drivers should exercise caution to ensure their accessories comply with insurance policies and road safety regulations. For more information on keeping your car insurance valid, visit Zego’s new driver car insurance page.

By making informed choices about car accessories, drivers can avoid costly mistakes and keep the roads safe for everyone.