NCT Delays: Will Insurance Cover A Car Without A Valid NCT?
The Insurance Companies which MIG represent all understand the delays that our customers, both new and existing, are experiencing with NCT tests at the moment. We are strongly advising all our clients, who are due their first or subsequent NCT, to book a test immediately, and place written confirmation of the test date on your car dashboard for An Garda Síochána to view.
Irrespective of the compulsory NCT, it is a Condition of all insurance policies, that you keep your vehicle roadworthy at all times. If you do not do this, then your right to claim under your policy may be affected.
The Insurance Companies MIG represent have stated that they will be pragmatic and understanding in their approach to the current delays at the National Car Testing Service (NCTS). Cover will continue to be provided where customers, through no fault of their own, are unable to obtain an NCT appointment.
Motor insurance and Road Traffic Act legislation require that motorists maintain their vehicles in a roadworthy condition at all times and this remains the case. Under the current circumstances, provided motorists make every effort to book appointments in the normal way, insurance companies will recognise that the current issue is not the fault of the customer. An Garda Síochána will also take this into consideration.
No Shows At NCT Centres
The latest figures reveal that 3,500 people are failing to show up for their NCT test every week. This is very concerning and you will need a very good excuse for both An Garda Síochána and your Insurers after the missed test date. You will also need to book a new NCT test immediately after failing to show.
In the ‘no show’ figures, we understand that some motorists were not tested, because the person bringing the car to the test centre neglected to bring their driving licence or their Public Service Card (PSC). You must also bring the Vehicle Registration Book; Registration Certificate or Licensing Certificate with you when you arrive at the test centre.
Dangerous Result
Where a vehicle is failed because of a dangerous defect that constitutes a direct or immediate risk to road safety such that, the vehicle should not be used on the road under any circumstances and an Insurer will not be understanding in this situation. A sticker stating ‘Failed Dangerous’ will be affixed to the vehicle by the Vehicle Inspector.
The vehicle must be presented for re-inspection and receive a Pass Result before an NCT Certificate is issued. We would advise that the Vehicle is towed away by the garage you are going to select to repair it. Your Breakdown extension will NOT operate, in these circumstances, under your policy for a Dangerous Fail.
It is illegal and unsafe for a motorist to drive a vehicle with a dangerous defect, which means the vehicle owner may have the vehicle seized, incur penalty points and a court appearance if caught by An Garda Síochána.
