Does Classic Car Insurance Cover Cars in Transit to Shows or Events?

Do you love taking your classic car to shows, exhibitions or club meets? If so, you’re not alone. Sharing your pride and joy with fellow enthusiasts and soaking up the atmosphere is all part of the fun.

However, what about getting there? Whether you’re driving to a local event or transporting your car by trailer across the country, you’re likely thinking: does classic car insurance cover cars in transit to shows or events?

In this helpful guide, we’ll walk you through Footman James classic car insurance and what it includes when it comes to travelling to events. We’ll also explain the terms and conditions to be aware of when taking on this cover, from mileage limits to exclusions for competitive use.

Are classic cars covered when driving to shows and exhibitions?

If you’re driving your classic car to a show or exhibition, you’re covered under Footman James’ standard classic car insurance, so long as the journey is for social, domestic and pleasure use. This includes attending: 

• Car club meets
• Static displays
• Exhibitions and events

Are classic cars covered when transported on a trailer?

If you have Comprehensive cover with Footman James, insurance for transporting classic cars on a trailer is included. This means that if your vehicle is damaged or even stolen during transit to a show or event, you can still make a claim, subject to your policy’s terms and conditions. That said, there are a few important things to keep in mind. 

• Cover type — You must have Comprehensive cover. Third-party or laid-up cover will only protect your vehicle during trailer transit against accidental damage
• The trailer — Unless you’ve arranged separate insurance, any damage to the trailer won’t be included under your vehicle’s policy. 
• Security — Insurers expect the vehicle to be legally and safely fastened during transit. If not, a claim could be refused. 
• Your route — Always ensure the driver has the correct licence for towing and that the trailer complies with UK towing laws. 

Important classic car insurance conditions to keep in mind

While our classic car insurance for driving to events offers peace of mind for both driving and transporting your vehicle, there are three key conditions to be aware of. These can affect whether your cover applies, so it’s worth checking before you set off:

1. Mileage limits

Most classic car insurance policies come with an annual mileage cap. This is because classic cars are typically only used occasionally, not for daily driving. Exceeding your agreed mileage could: 

• Invalidate your policy 
• Result in your claim being refused 
• Trigger a policy adjustment

If you’re getting close to your mileage limit, contact your insurer to discuss your options. 

2. Roadworthiness

Your vehicle must be in a roadworthy condition if it’s being driven to an event. That means it should be: 

• Legally taxed, if required
• MOT’d, if applicable
• Properly maintained
• Safe to drive

Driving an unroadworthy car could put you, the public and your cover at risk.

3. Static display cover

Once you arrive and park your car as part of a static display, your Footman James policy will continue to provide cover. Therefore, whether your car is out on the showground or tucked away under a gazebo, it’s still protected.

What isn’t covered when attending shows?

While our classic car insurance is designed to support your hobby, there are some situations it doesn’t cover. Anticipating common questions and knowing any exclusions can help you avoid surprises and keep your car properly protected. Our standard policies don’t cover:

• Competitive driving — Racing events, timed laps, hill climbs or rally stages fall outside standard cover, and specialist insurance is required.
• Commercial use — If you’re using your car for paid promotions, advertising or offering rides for payment, this counts as hire or reward. In such cases, a different cover will be needed.
• Track days — Driving on a closed circuit for high-speed testing or timed laps isn’t covered unless you’ve arranged specific track day insurance.
• Leaving keys in the vehicle — If your car is left unattended with the keys inside and it’s stolen, your claim could be refused. 

How to stay fully protected when attending shows

Familiarising yourself with what’s included in your classic car insurance for driving to events and taking a few simple precautions will help you stay on top of everything. To stay fully protected, follow these five simple steps:

1. Check your level of cover — If you’re after classic car insurance for trailering your vehicle, make sure you have a Comprehensive policy. Third-party cover won’t protect your car in transit.
2. Laid up cover - If your vehicle is normally kept off-road, in storage and you display only it is worth considering laid up cover. Footman James laid up cover will extend to include accidental and malicious damage, fire and theft as well as third party liability whilst on display at an event
3. Keep an eye on mileage — Monitor your annual mileage to avoid going over your limit. If you’re close to exceeding it, speak to us about increasing your allowance. 
4. Confirm event details — If you’re taking part in a special activity like a parade, display or controlled driving session, check whether you need additional cover. Some non-competitive driving events may still require special terms. 
5. Secure your vehicle at all times — Whether on the road, on a trailer or parked at the event, make sure your car is locked and you have not left with keys inside. Take extra care during loading and unloading too. 
6. Know your policy — If you’re unsure about what is or isn’t covered, it’s always worth contacting us. If you’re unsure, we’ll talk you through your policy and help you make adjustments as needed.

Footman James+ can be helpful if you need specific cover for additional things like spare parts, track days or European travel. 

Enjoy the journey and the show with confidence

Does classic car insurance cover travel to shows? It can with the right policy from Footman James. And by understanding the conditions of your classic car insurance policy, like mileage limits, transport requirements and exclusions, you’ll know exactly what’s covered and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Classic car insurance from Footman James

With Footman James you can get a classic car insurance online quotation instantly for your classic Jaguar, Mini, VW and more. You can also add FJ+ options to your quote such as agreed value and breakdown cover.

Get a classic car insurance quote

Whether you’re prepping for your next exhibition or thinking about adapting your current policy, our team is here to help. Get a quote from us now or give us a call on 0333 060 1351. 

 

Consistent with our policy when giving comment and advice on a non-specific basis, we cannot assume legal responsibility for the accuracy of any particular statement. In the case of specific problems we recommend that professional advice be sought.