Motorists are being warned of the risk of losing their vehicles and invalidating their insurance claims as temperatures across the UK plummet. The Met Office has forecast that certain regions could experience lows of -7C this week, coupled with a yellow warning for ice and snow in some areas.
Moreover, the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a yellow and amber cold health alert for numerous parts of the country, including the North East, North West, Yorkshire and The Humber, East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, London, South East, and the South West. As temperatures are set to plummet nationwide, many drivers will begin their day by de-icing their cars.
While some may opt for an ice scraper or de-icing spray, others might start their engines and crank up the heat to clear ice and condensation. However, it’s crucial to remember that overlooking basic safety measures could result not only in the loss of your vehicle but also in the invalidation of your insurance.
Why you should de-ice your car before setting off
If your car’s windscreen and rear view window are obscured by ice or condensation, particularly on an exceptionally cold morning, you won’t be able to drive with a suitable and clear view of the road ahead. This increases your risk of being involved in an accident, as spotting potential hazards becomes more challenging.
Rule 229 of the Highway Code states that motorists must ensure clear visibility before setting off in icy or snowy weather, and therefore must clear all snow and ice from all windows. Additionally, it specifies that drivers should make certain that all mirrors are clear and “windows are demisted thoroughly”.
How de-icing your car can invalidate your insurance
Whilst it is perfectly acceptable to switch on your engine and activate your heating to de-ice and de-mist your car, you should always remain either inside or in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle whilst the engine is running. If you choose to turn on the engine, then leave to do something else, you could fall victim to car theft.
Commonly known as ‘frost jacking’, car thieves can steal a person’s vehicle with remarkable ease when someone walks away whilst it’s defrosting, since the engine is already running, the doors are unlocked, and the keys are in the ignition. However, even if drivers have theft cover on their car from their insurer, they may discover that they’re unable to make a valid claim in this situation.
Most insurance policies include a ‘keys in car’ clause, which means you can’t claim for a stolen vehicle if it was left unattended with the engine running. It’s worth noting that under the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 and Rule 123 of the Highway Code, it’s illegal to leave your car unattended with the engine on.
This could result in drivers being hit with fines of up to £80.