Latest News and Articles
See below the list of our latest news and articles from our BLOG on the Einsure website:
What is the difference between owner and registered keeper?
In the realm of car ownership, knowing the difference between the “owner” and the “registered keeper” of a vehicle is not just a trivial detail—it’s a crucial aspect with important legal and practical implications. Understanding these roles and their distinctions is key to managing your vehicle correctly. Here’s a closer look at what sets these two roles apart and why this distinction matters.
Who is the car owner?
The “owner” of a car is the person or entity who purchased the vehicle or received it as a gift. Ownership means having the legal title to the car, which grants the authority to sell, modify, or otherwise dispose of it. Essentially, the owner has the legal claim over the vehicle and is recognised as the one with the right to make major decisions about the car.
Who is the registered keeper?
The “registered keeper,” meanwhile, is the person responsible for the car’s daily use and upkeep. While this role often overlaps with ownership, it doesn’t always. The registered keeper handles the vehicle’s regular responsibilities, such as ensuring it is taxed, insured, and has a valid MOT certificate. Legally, the registered keeper is the primary point of contact for any issues related to the vehicle, including traffic violations and fines, which will be addressed to them.
Why is this distinction important?
Understanding the difference between owner and registered keeper is important for legal, insurance, and liability reasons:
Legal Responsibility:
The registered keeper is the primary point of contact for authorities regarding the car. This includes receiving tickets or fines for any legal infractions like speeding or parking violations. As the registered keeper, it’s your responsibility to ensure the vehicle complies with all legal requirements, including tax, insurance, and MOT.
Insurance Considerations:
Insurance is typically associated with the registered keeper, not necessarily the owner. If you are the owner but not the registered keeper, it’s crucial to ensure that the insurance policy accurately reflects the details of the registered keeper to prevent complications with claims.
Liability Issues:
The registered keeper must ensure that anyone driving the car has a valid driving licence and appropriate insurance. If someone drives the car without proper credentials, the registered keeper could be held liable for any resulting accidents or legal issues.
When the owner and registered keeper are different
There are several situations where the owner and the registered keeper might not be the same person.
Company Cars:
In cases where a company provides a vehicle to an employee, the company is the legal owner, while the employee is the registered keeper. The employee is responsible for the car’s day-to-day management and ensuring it complies with legal requirements.
Parental Arrangements:
If parents purchase a car for their child, they may retain ownership while the child is the registered keeper. This means the parents hold the title, but the child is responsible for the vehicle’s daily operations and legal compliance.
If you lease or subscribe to a car, the end user is responsible for the day-to-day car and legalities of the vehicle. But the funding company or vehicle subscription provider is the legal owner of the vehicle.
Responsibilities of the registered keeper
As the registered keeper, you have key responsibilities, including ensuring the vehicle is taxed, insured, and has a valid MOT certificate at all times. You are also accountable for addressing any legal notices related to the vehicle, such as fines or penalties. Moreover, it’s important to verify that anyone driving the vehicle has the appropriate licence and insurance.
Responsibilities of the car owner
Even if you are not the registered keeper, as the owner, you still have responsibilities. It’s vital to keep the registered keeper’s details up-to-date to avoid any legal liabilities. Regular communication with the registered keeper is also important to ensure the vehicle remains compliant with all legal obligations and that any issues are promptly resolved.
In summary
Understanding the roles of car owner and registered keeper is essential for managing your vehicle effectively. Each role comes with distinct responsibilities, and knowing these can help you avoid potential legal and insurance issues. Whether you are the owner, the registered keeper, or both, staying informed and proactive will ensure that you meet all necessary legal and practical requirements for your vehicle.
For more tips on car management and insurance, check out our latest blog posts. Drive safely!
Steps to take if your vehicle has been seized or impounded by the Police
Discovering that your vehicle has been seized or impounded can be a stressful ordeal, but knowing the steps involved in the release process can make it easier to navigate. This guide outlines the necessary actions to reclaim your vehicle, whether it was seized by the police or impounded for other reasons.
Types of Vehicle Impoundment
The process for retrieving your vehicle depends on whether it was seized by the police or simply impounded. Police typically seize vehicles for serious offences, such as driving without insurance, driving without a valid licence, or failing to pay vehicle tax. In these cases, you will receive a seizure notice either on the spot or via post if you were not present.
Vehicles can also be impounded without being seized for various reasons, including being stolen, involved in an accident, parked illegally, linked to a crime, driven in an anti-social manner, causing an obstruction, abandoned, trespassing, or surrendered under a dispersal order.
Insurance Requirements for Vehicle Release
To release your vehicle from an impound or police pound, you need the correct insurance coverage. Standard motor insurance policies do not usually cover impounded vehicles, so you will need specific impound insurance. It’s important to check your insurance policy or contact your insurer to confirm that it covers vehicle release from a police compound.
If your current insurance does not include this coverage, you have two options: secure an annual policy that includes impound release, or purchase a 30-day impound insurance policy, which is specifically designed for releasing vehicles from police compounds.
Steps to Release a Seized Vehicle
If your vehicle has been seized by the police, the first step is to carefully review your seizure notice. This notice will be given to you at the time of seizure or sent to you if you were not present. You must visit the designated police station within 7 working days (or up to 14 days in some regions) with your seizure notice. This process must be carried out by the registered keeper of the vehicle unless there are exceptional circumstances.
When visiting the police station, you will need to provide several documents, including:
- Your seizure notice
- Your driving licence (and passport if you have a paper licence)
- Proof of address (such as a recent utility bill or bank statement)
- Proof of vehicle ownership, which could include the car registration logbook (V5C) with a matching address, an unaltered and valid new keeper supplement (V5C/2) with a bill of sale and two proofs of address, or a confirmation email from the DVLA about a change of registered keeper
- A valid MOT certificate (or proof of a pre-booked MOT if exempt)
- Valid insurance that covers impound release
- Proof of road tax
After having your seizure notice stamped at the police station, proceed to the police pound, which may be operated by a third party. Bring all your documents, including the stamped seizure notice, and be prepared to pay the release fees and any daily storage charges.
Steps to Release an Impounded (Not Seized) Vehicle
For vehicles that have been impounded but not seized, the process is slightly different. You will receive a collection notice by mail once your vehicle is ready for collection. You can then go directly to the pound with the required documents, similar to those needed for a seized vehicle, but without the seizure notice.
If you cannot collect the vehicle yourself, you can authorise someone else to do so on your behalf. They will need a signed letter of authority from you and must be insured on the vehicle.
Understanding Release Charges
The cost of releasing your vehicle varies based on its condition and weight. For an undamaged vehicle under 3.5 tonnes, the standard release fee is £192, plus a daily storage fee of £26. Heavier vehicles or those in a damaged condition may incur higher fees. For a full breakdown of charges, refer to The Removal, Storage and Disposal of Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Regulations 2023.
Common Reasons for Vehicle Seizure
A vehicle is typically seized by police if the driver is uninsured, not complying with their driving licence, or if the vehicle is untaxed. Vehicles may also be impounded without seizure for other reasons, such as being stolen, involved in an accident, parked illegally, linked to criminal activity, driven anti-socially, causing obstruction, abandoned, trespassing, or under a dispersal order.
Final Thoughts
While retrieving your vehicle after it has been seized or impounded can be challenging, understanding the requirements and having the correct documentation and insurance in place can make the process smoother. Always ensure your insurance policy covers impound release and respond promptly to any seizure notices to avoid additional complications and costs.
For detailed instructions tailored to your local police force or council, it’s best to consult their official guidelines and follow the specific steps they provide.
Top 5 Car Insurance Claims for Summer and tips on how to avoid them
Summer brings warm weather, road trips, and outdoor adventures, but it’s also a time when certain car insurance claims tend to increase. Knowing the most common claims during the summer months and how to prevent them can help you stay safe and potentially save on your car insurance premiums. Let’s explore the top car insurance claims in the summer and some practical tips to help you steer clear of trouble.
1. Accidents Caused by Distracted Driving
Summer is synonymous with long drives to holiday destinations, busier roads, and a higher chance of distractions. Drivers might be tempted to take in the scenery, glance at their phones for directions, or chat with passengers. Unfamiliar routes and heavy traffic during peak holiday times can further increase the risk of distraction-related accidents.
How to Avoid It:
- Stay Focused: Keep your eyes on the road and resist the urge to use your phone or other gadgets while driving.
- Plan Ahead: Set your navigation system before starting your journey, and take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.
- Manage Passengers: Ensure children and pets are safely secured and entertained to minimise distractions.
2. Tyre Blowouts
The heat from sun-soaked roads in summer can increase the risk of tyre blowouts, particularly if your tyres are worn out or not properly inflated. As temperatures rise, the air inside the tyres expands, which can worsen any pre-existing problems. Long journeys with heavy loads and high speeds can also put added stress on your tyres.
How to Avoid It:
- Regular Inspections: Check your tyres frequently for signs of wear and damage.
- Proper Inflation: Ensure your tyres are inflated to the recommended pressure levels specified by the manufacturer.
- Avoid Overloading: Do not overload your vehicle, as this puts extra pressure on your tyres and increases the risk of a blowout.
3. Windscreen Damage
Summer road trips often involve driving on motorways, where debris can easily be kicked up and damage your windscreen. Construction zones, loose gravel, and other vehicles can throw up rocks and other objects. Additionally, rapid temperature changes between the hot sun and cold air conditioning can weaken the glass, making it more susceptible to cracks.
How to Avoid It:
- Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance from lorries and construction vehicles that may kick up debris.
- Use Protective Film: Consider applying a protective film to your windscreen to reduce the risk of cracks.
4. Overheating Engines
The hot summer weather can put additional strain on your car’s engine, particularly if the cooling system isn’t in good condition. Low coolant levels, leaks, or issues with the radiator can lead to overheating. Using air conditioning more frequently also increases the engine’s workload.
How to Avoid It:
- Check Coolant Levels: Regularly check your coolant levels and top up as needed.
- Professional Inspections: Have your cooling system inspected by a professional before the summer season begins.
- Park Smart: Whenever possible, park in the shade to help keep your car cooler.
5. Theft and Break-Ins
With more people on the move and cars left unattended in unfamiliar locations, the risk of car theft and break-ins rises during the summer. Thieves often target tourist hotspots, car parks, and service stations where vehicles are left unattended for extended periods. High-value items left visible inside the car can attract opportunistic criminals.
How to Avoid It:
- Secure Your Vehicle: Always lock your doors and close your windows when leaving your car.
- Conceal Valuables: Keep valuables out of sight, preferably in the boot or take them with you.
- Use Anti-Theft Devices: Consider installing an alarm system or using a steering wheel lock for added security.
By being aware of the common car insurance claims during the summer and taking preventative measures, you can enjoy a safer and more stress-free season. These precautions not only help protect you and your passengers but also reduce the likelihood of making costly insurance claims. Stay alert, keep your vehicle well-maintained, and drive responsibly to make the most of your summer travels.
Protect your Car and Loved Ones This Summer
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What you need to know about the new EU speed limiter regulations
A significant new EU regulation designed to reduce speeding and improve road safety is set to take effect for all new cars sold in the European Union from 7 July 2024. This legislation requires that manufacturers install Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) technology in their vehicles, with various implementation options available, including systems that can automatically restrict a car’s speed.
How This Affects the UK
The UK’s Department for Transport has confirmed that this regulation will be enforced in Northern Ireland. While England, Scotland, and Wales are not subject to this requirement, it is expected that most new cars sold across the UK will still include ISA technology as standard.
Read on to discover more about the regulation, the ISA technology, and its implications for drivers.
What is Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA)?
Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) uses a combination of GPS data and camera recognition of speed signs to determine speed limits on the road. Depending on the configuration, the system can either restrict the vehicle’s speed or provide warnings—either visually or audibly—when the speed limit is exceeded.
ISA has been mandatory for new car models introduced since July 2022, and from 7 July 2024, all new cars sold in the EU and Northern Ireland will need to comply, irrespective of their launch date.
Manufacturers have the flexibility to choose from several ISA system options, such as sound alerts, vibrations, feedback through the accelerator pedal, or direct speed control. Under the new regulation, these systems must activate automatically whenever the car is started and cannot be permanently turned off.
For those systems that automatically limit speed, drivers have the ability to temporarily override the limiter by pressing firmly on the accelerator. However, the limiter will reactivate each time the car is restarted.
Why Is This Law Being Introduced?
This regulation is being implemented based on recommendations from the European Transport Safety Council, a not-for-profit organisation that believes mandatory ISA technology could reduce road deaths in Europe by as much as 20%. The European Commission also highlights additional benefits of ISA, including the potential for lower insurance premiums, reduced CO2 emissions, and a general slowdown of older cars that do not have ISA technology.
Although the UK has exited the EU, the regulation will still apply in Northern Ireland. While ISA will not be a legal requirement in England, Scotland, and Wales, it is anticipated that most car manufacturers will include the technology in their vehicles as standard.
How Accurate is Speed Limit Detection?
ISA technology relies on GPS and camera systems to accurately detect speed limits. However, tests have shown that the system is not always reliable. Issues have been reported, such as misreading speed limits on dual carriageways, confusing nearby road speed limits, or incorrectly registering speeds, like displaying 80 mph in 30 mph zones.
Industry Response
Many car manufacturers, including Citroën, Ford, Honda, Jaguar, Peugeot, Renault, and Volvo, have already begun incorporating ISA technology in some of their models. Additionally, the Renault Group has taken further steps to promote safety by capping the maximum speed of all new Renault and Citroën vehicles at 112 mph.
This regulation represents a significant step towards safer roads and a reduction in speed-related accidents, reflecting a growing commitment across Europe to embrace new technologies that support responsible driving.
Is this the best Travel Child Car Seat available? Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus
Travelling with young children can be challenging, especially when it comes to ensuring their safety and comfort in a car. The Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus aims to solve this problem with its ultra-compact and lightweight design, making it a great option for families on the go. In this review, we'll dive into the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of the Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus, a travel-friendly car seat designed for children aged 15 months to 4 years. Is it the right choice for your next trip? Let's find out! We purchased this child seat to use the Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus during a family trip abroad. Its portability was immediately evident; the car seat folds easily and fits into its included travel bag, which made navigating through the airport a breeze. Installation was straightforward, taking less than 30 seconds with the belt routine. Despite its lightweight construction, the seat felt sturdy, and my toddler appeared comfortable even on longer drives. However, I noticed that while it’s perfect for travel, it might not be the best option for everyday use due to its lack of recline and occasional wobbliness.
Ultra-Compact and Lightweight Design
The Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus stands out for its ultra-compact and lightweight design, making it an ideal choice for traveling families. Weighing in at just 4.26 kg, this car seat is easy to carry and maneuver, even when your hands are full with other travel essentials. Its compact size ensures that it fits comfortably in any car, making the transition from one vehicle to another seamless. This feature is particularly beneficial for parents who frequently use taxis or rental cars, as it eliminates the hassle of dealing with bulky car seats.
Easy Installation
One of the standout features of the Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus is its quick and easy installation process. The car seat can be installed in less than 30 seconds, thanks to its intuitive belt installation system. This ensures that the seat is securely fitted, providing peace of mind for parents. The straightforward installation process is a game-changer for busy parents who don't have the time to fumble with complicated setups. This feature also makes it easier for grandparents or other caregivers to use the car seat without any issues.
Side Impact Protection
Safety is a top priority for any parent, and the Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus delivers with its reinforced Side Impact Protection. This feature ensures that your child is fully protected in the event of a side collision, providing an extra layer of security. The sturdy construction of the car seat further enhances its safety credentials, making it a reliable choice for parents who want to ensure their child's well-being. Despite its lightweight design, the Nomad Plus does not compromise on safety, offering robust protection for your little one.
Comfortable Padding and Soft Fabrics
Comfort is another key aspect of the Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus. The car seat is designed with soft fabrics and extra-comfy padding, ensuring that your child travels in comfort. Whether you're going on a long road trip or just a short drive, the plush padding provides a cozy environment for your child. This feature is particularly important for keeping young children content during extended periods in the car. The seat's ergonomic design also supports your child's posture, making it a comfortable choice for growing toddlers.
Adjustable Safety Harness and Headrest
The Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus grows with your child, thanks to its easy-to-adjust safety harness and headrest. This feature allows you to customize the fit of the car seat, ensuring maximum safety and comfort as your child grows. The 5-point safety harness comes with anti-slip shoulder pads, keeping your child secure and stable at all times. This adjustability makes the car seat a long-term investment, suitable for children from 15 months up to 4 years. The ability to easily adjust the harness and headrest also adds to the convenience of using this car seat.
Washable Fabrics for Easy Maintenance
Maintaining the Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus is a breeze, thanks to its machine-washable fabrics. The car seat's removable covers can be washed at 30 degrees, making it easy to keep the seat clean and fresh. This feature is particularly useful for parents dealing with spills and accidents, as it allows for quick and hassle-free cleaning. The durable materials used in the car seat ensure that it remains in good condition even after multiple washes, making it a practical choice for busy families.
Integrated Travel Bag
The Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus comes with an integrated water-repellent travel bag, making it even more travel-friendly. The bag allows you to pack the car seat away neatly, protecting it from dirt and damage during transit. This feature is especially useful when traveling by plane, as the compact car seat can be easily stored in the overhead compartment. The travel bag also makes it convenient to carry the car seat over your shoulder, freeing up your hands for other tasks. This added convenience makes the Nomad Plus a versatile and practical choice for traveling families.
Forward-Facing Orientation
The Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus is designed with a forward-facing orientation, suitable for children weighing between 9 and 18 kilograms. This orientation provides a clear view for your child, keeping them engaged and entertained during the ride. While some parents may prefer a rear-facing seat for younger children, the forward-facing design of the Nomad Plus is ideal for older toddlers who enjoy looking out the window. The seat's ergonomic design ensures that your child remains comfortable and secure, even during long journeys.
Affordability and Value for Money
Priced at £110, the Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus offers excellent value for money. Compared to other travel-friendly car seats on the market, it provides a good balance of affordability and quality. The car seat's robust safety features, combined with its lightweight and compact design, make it a cost-effective choice for parents. The ease of installation and maintenance further adds to its value, making it a practical investment for families who travel frequently. This affordability makes the Nomad Plus accessible to a wider range of parents, without compromising on essential features.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
The Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus has received positive feedback from customers, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars based on 119 reviews. Parents have praised its ease of installation, lightweight design, and travel-friendly features. Many reviews highlight the car seat's comfort and safety, noting that their children are happy and secure during trips. However, some customers have mentioned that the seat may not be ideal for everyday use, as it can feel a bit wobbly if not installed correctly. Overall, the customer feedback indicates that the Nomad Plus is a reliable and practical choice for travel, offering good value for money.
Pros:
- Ultra-compact and lightweight, ideal for travel.
- Quick and easy installation in any car.
- Affordable price for the quality offered.
Cons:
- Not ideal as a main car seat for frequent use.
- Can feel a bit wobbly if not installed correctly.
- Does not recline, which may affect comfort for some toddlers.
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Conclusion
The Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus excels as a travel-friendly car seat, offering ease of use, portability, and a high level of safety with its side impact protection. Its compact design and lightweight nature make it ideal for families who frequently travel or use public transportation. While it may not replace a primary car seat for daily use, the Nomad Plus is a valuable addition to any family’s travel gear. Its affordability and convenience make it a worthwhile investment for ensuring your child's safety and comfort on the go.
Questions & Answers:
Question: Is the Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus easy to carry? Answer: Yes, the Maxi-Cosi Nomad Plus is ultra-compact and lightweight at 4.26 kg, making it easy to carry, especially for travel. Question: Can the Nomad Plus be used for children younger than 15 months? Answer: The Nomad Plus is designed for children aged 15 months to approximately 4 years (9–18kg). It may not provide adequate support for younger children. Question: Is this car seat suitable for everyday use in the car? Answer: While the Nomad Plus is excellent for travel and occasional use, it may not be the best option for a primary car seat due to its compact size and lack of recline.