Going on a road trip abroad is an experience that inspires many travelers. There's nothing more exhilarating than crossing a multitude of landscapes, crossing borders and discovering new cultures while feeling free! However, before you put your luggage in the trunk and get behind the wheel of your car, it's essential to check your car insurance. It would be a shame to have a problem abroad and find out you're not covered. Here's what you need to know about car insurance for a road trip abroad.
Examine your current car insurance policy
In France, all licensed drivers who own a car are required to insure it in order to drive legally. Whether you've been driving for a long time or are a young driver, your policy protects you, other drivers and your vehicle.
You've decided to take a road trip abroad on your next vacation? Don't leave without knowing whether your current policy covers foreign travel. You can call your insurer or refer to your car insurance certificate, more commonly known as a "green card". The list of countries to which cover applies appears on the back of this card.
In general, whether you have taken out third-party, intermediate or comprehensive insurance, you are covered in most European countries. This includes the countries of the European Economic Area (EEA), as well as other states such as Switzerland, Croatia, Liechtenstein, Norway, Iceland and the Principality of Andorra. In all cases, don't hesitate to call your insurer to check that all cover and conditions apply in the European countries you pass through. For example, some coverages may no longer apply after 90 days.
If you are traveling through a country not mentioned on your insurance certificate, i.e. outside Europe, you should check whether your insurer can offer you an extension of cover. If not, you'll need to take out temporary car insurance with a local agency at the border.
Research the different types of car insurance policies for a road trip abroad
For a road trip abroad, travelers can opt for third-party, intermediate or comprehensive insurance. In fact, it all depends on the risks you feel you're taking, and the level of coverage you want. Don't hesitate to talk to your insurer to assess the risks and choose the most suitable formula.
In any case, third-party liability cover applies in all the countries listed on the back of your green card. As mentioned above, all other cover stops after 90 days, when your road trip abroad is no longer considered a vacation.
Apart from third-party liability, make sure you designate a second person as a secondary driver on your car contract from the outset, so that he or she is covered. When you're on a road trip with two people or a group of friends, it's highly likely that you'll want to hand over the reins at some point, so as not to accumulate too much fatigue.
Another essential coverage for a road trip is assistance. In the event of an accident, breakdown or theft, you need a replacement vehicle. You can also have access to a cab for the time it takes to make repairs or find the most appropriate solution. You should also be able to contact an advisor and report any claims abroad by telephone or online as quickly as possible.
