General Insurance Article - Brexit and time running out for motorists and Green Cards

 The Green Card requirement will apply to motorists in Northern Ireland driving across the border with the Republic of Ireland.

 The concern has led to the ABI writing to Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps MP, urging the Government to put pressure on the Commission to act.

 The Green Card is an international certificate of insurance proving visiting motorists have the minimum compulsory motor insurance cover required by the law of the country visited.

 All European Economic Area (EEA) countries (EU countries, and Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway) are part of a Green Card free circulation area, meaning that motorists based there do not have to carry Green Cards when visiting other countries in the area. However, when the transition period ends then UK motorists will be required to carry Green Cards for driving in the Republic and other EU states, unless the European Commission agrees that the UK can remain in the Green Card scheme.

 Motorists failing to carry a Green Card when one is needed risk having their vehicle seized and facing prosecution.

 Full details about Green Cards on ABI’s website

 Carol Hall, ABI’s Assistant Director, Head of European & International Affairs, said:“Insurers have put considerable resources into preparing for the need to issue Green Cards for travel from 1 January 2020 to minimise any disruption to motorists. While they are geared up to do so, it is without question that the best outcome for customers, road hauliers and insurers continues to be for the UK to be part of the Green Card Free Circulation Zone

 “We appreciate the pragmatic approach the UK Government has taken on this matter, and we need them to press the EU Commission to agree that the UK and its motorists can stay in the Green Card free zone.”