Automotive Business Magazine – Q3 2026 – Digital edition - Flipbook - Page 76
OPI N I O N
FLEET
Mistakes that
invalidate van
V
an drivers are being warned
of the common mistakes
that could affect their ability
to claim on insurance in the
event of an accident.
Here, I’ll share seven ways
van drivers may unknowingly
invalidate their insurance –
including how it looks, where
it’s parked and what it’s used for.
For example, there are more than 3.6
million vans used for business across
the UK, many of which likely display
company branding. However, insurers
class signwriting as a modification to the
vehicle that must be declared – failure to
do so could leave tradespeople at risk of
invalidated insurance. Another common
mistake which can lead to insurance
complications is a messy van, particularly
if heavy tools or goods are left unsecured
and cause an accident.
Misinforming insurers about details
such as where a van is parked overnight
and how the van is used can also lead
to insurance problems in the event of a
claim. Small oversights can unfortunately
leave van drivers unprotected when they
need their insurance most.
An insurance
company may refuse
to cover the claim
if it is found that the
driver was not
looking after their
van properly”
76
AUTOMOTIVE BUSINESS
Q3 2026
If a van is stolen or broken into with
tools inside, and the branding suggests
it’s being used for business that wasn’t
declared, insurers could look to cancel
the policy for non-disclosure.
It’s crucial to take the time to review
the policy, making sure everything
from signwriting to overnight parking
is accurately recorded. It could be the
difference between a successful claim
and being left out of pocket at the worst
possible time.
Seven things that could affect van
insurance claims:
Unsecured goods and mess
In the event of an accident caused by
unsecured tools or goods, an insurance
company may refuse to cover the claim if
it is found that the driver was not looking
after their van properly.
Drivers also risk fines, penalty points,
and serious harm. Loose objects can
become lethal in an accident, with
research suggesting a 20-pound object
at 55mph has a force of 1,000 pounds
on impact.
Undeclared signage and branding
Signwriting or company branding is often
classed as a modification by insurers
and must be declared. While it may
seem like a harmless upgrade and great
for the company’s visibility, failing to
update the change with the insurer may
invalidate the policy.
Insurance companies view signwriting
as potentially increasing the likelihood
of theft or vandalism, viewing it as a
modification because it alters the van's
exterior appearance.
