Written by GoCompare.com exclusively for Talk Torque
Track days have exploded in popularity in the UK in recent years, with thousands of drivers taking their vehicles along to their local racetrack or even overseas to experience its full potential without worrying about falling on the wrong side of the law.
However, the vast majority of conventional car insurance companies in the UK specifically exclude use of a vehicle in competitions, trials, performance testing and other high-speed events - including track days. So how can you get the cover you need and still have fun?
How to insure a modified race car
Assuming the vehicle is used on public highways you will need to shop around carefully for car insurance as most providers charge heavy premiums for any modifications or will refuse to offer insurance at all. There are, however, some specialists that will cover modified cars including Performance Direct, Adrian Flux and Endsleigh. Here are some features to look for:
Cover for all modifications
Shop around for a policy that includes like-for-like cover on all your upgrades, so you won`t have to fork out again in the event of making a claim.
True value cover
Some specialist insurers offer agreed value cover where the value of the vehicle is pre-determined in case it is stolen or written off.
Limited mileage discounts
If you drive your vehicle rarely and perhaps only use it on the way to meets then agree to a limited mileage to earn a discount.
Track day cover
Some specialist insurers will cover you for rallies and track days. Examine the policy carefully to see what is and isn`t covered as it may still be necessary to take out specific meet coverage.
Additional discounts
Look for discounts if you are a member of a car club, have an alarm system, park your car in a garage at night and have completed an advanced motoring course such as the Pass Plus, IAM or Max Driver qualification.
What to look for from track day insurance
Even if your car insurance offers track day cover you may still need additional insurance as regular cover may not be extensive enough. Here are some important considerations when looking for a policy:
Accident damage
Check for exclusions to accident damage – for example are you covered for rolling chassis damage or fires caused by mechanical defects?
Emergency medical assistance
In case you are injured in a crash and require medical treatment.
Medical and emergency expenses
Cover for you and third parties for hospital benefits, repatriation and other medical costs.
Personal liability cover
Cover in case you cause an accident which injures or even kills another driver or damages their property.
Personal accident cover
A cash settlement for disabilities you suffer as part of an accident.
Coverage for activity equipment
Check if the policy covers your own equipment or hired equipment too.
Legal expenses
Reimbursement for legal costs against a third party.
Cover in transit
Will your policy cover you for expenses including track day fees if an unexpected event or accident occurs while the vehicle is being transported? Are you covered on public roads?
Length of cover
Are you covered for one day, up to five days or even for a full year of track day events?
Overseas coverage
Are you covered for track days abroad and associated transit costs? There are usually separate policies for European and worldwide meets.
Contact your existing car insurance provider and ask what cover it can offer for track days – however, it will usually be necessary to shop around for specialist cover.
