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Category: Blog

Q. Audi Car Insurance Specialists

A.

Kennco.ie is a specialist insurance broker in Audi car insurance. We understand that being an Audi owner is exciting, and we want our customers to know that they have the best possible insurance available as a customer of Kennco.ie. 

We’re delighted to insure the hundreds of Audi owners we have as our customers and be the trusted company they turn to in times of crisis regarding their motoring needs. 

We can insure your Audi vehicle if it is roadworthy and legally allowed on Irish roads. Our quotations will differ based on your experience as a driver, the cost of your car, the features of your car, your no-claims bonus, and how securely you store your Audi at your residence. 

You can get a car insurance quote online here. The process only takes a few minutes, and we can provide you with an Audi car insurance quotation. 

Select your vehicle for a fast online quote

Audi Logo View

  • Audi Q5 
  • Audi RS4 
  • Audi A1
  • Audi A3
  • Audi A4 
  • Audi A5
  • Audi A6
  • Audi A7
  • Audi A8
  • Audi Q2
  • Audi Q3
  • Audi Q4
  • Audi Q5
  • Audi Q7 
  • Audi Q8
  • Audi TT 
  • Audi e-tron
  • Audi e-tron Sportback
  • Audi e-tron S
  • Audi R8

The History of Audi

As we’ve said, being an Audi owner is exciting. It is one of the world’s largest and best-known car manufacturers. The German company is regarded as one of the big three car manufacturers in Europe, alongside BMW & Mercedes. Their history extends back to the 19th Century. They were founded in 1899 in Cologne.

Audi started making cars in 1910, with the first being the Audi Type A Sport-Phaeton. The Type B was also released that year to succeed it. Audi became internationally known in the 1920s. Audi became the first car to release a car that was a left-hand drive which was the Audi Type K. It gave drivers a better view of oncoming traffic and made it easier to overtake. It became trendy after that, selling left-hand drive cars.

We all know Audi’s logo if someone puts it before us. The four rings are well associated with the Audi brand. The Audi logo came about due to a merger of four companies. 

During World War Two, Audi began producing armoured cars for military purposes. 

In 1964 Volkswagen had a 50% share in Audi. They bought the new factory over a year and a half later and used it to produce more Volkswagen Beetles. The resurrection of the Audi was completed in 1972 when they built the Audi 80. 

Audi has lately been as innovative as ever. In the 1980s, they produced the turbocharged Quattro, the world’s first four-wheel-drive sport coupe. Audi was able to compete with the likes of Mercedes and BMW with the release of the Audi V8, which was more upmarket. 

Audi today is an internationally known brand on par with Mercedes and BMW. They are now developing electric cars with the Audi e-tron and similar e-tron models. 

Benefits of Being an Audi Owner

  1. Performance – Audi cars come with the latest high-tech features and powerful performance. 
  2. Safety – Audi has many safety features on their cars. Some of the Audi models have high safety ratings. This is due to amazing onboard tech, which provides extra safety in a collision.
  3. Comfort – Audi has developed a comfortable driving experience. They are even comfy for long journeys, so you will feel relaxed. Newer models offer heated seats for added comfort. 

Audi Insurance Quote 

Kennco.ie has been helping insure Audi owners since its inception in 2008. We’re fully committed to getting you the best possible insurance price for your Audi today. Simply click the button below to get a car insurance quote online today. 

Q. How To Cancel Your Car Insurance Policy

A.

A typical car insurance policy lasts 12 months, but you may cancel it anytime. Be aware your insurance provider may charge a cancellation fee. If you set up your car insurance through a broker, they may charge you a cancellation fee with your insurance provider. Your policy documents will outline any such cancellation or administration fees.

So, How Do I Cancel My Car Insurance Policy?

Let your insurance provider know if you ever want to cancel your car insurance policy. Insurance providers tend to have a different cancellation procedures, so it’s best to let them know and find out how to proceed.

There are several ways to cancel your insurance policy. You may inform your insurance provider in writing by either email or a letter.

Calling your insurance provider for a more rapid process may be better. Just make a note of when you made the call and to who. It’s always good to follow up on the conversation in writing.

Will I Get a Refund if I Cancel My Car Insurance During the Cooling-Off Period?

Yes, if you decide to cancel your car insurance policy within the stated 14-day cooling-off period, it is legally required that the insurance provider grants you a refund.

You will be charged for the time when the policy was active and may also be charged an administration fee. More details will be on the Terms & Conditions of your policy.

The cooling-off period is the period that starts when you receive your documents or whenever the cover starts, whichever is later. Some insurance providers may cover a more extended cooling-off period than 14 days, but you must check this in your policy.

Will I Get a Refund if I Cancel After the 14-Day Cooling-Off Period?

It depends. If you took out an annual policy, your insurance provider should refund you on a pro-rata basis for the time remaining, less a cancellation and administration fee. For example, if you cancel your policy after three months, you are entitled to a refund of nine months minus a cancellation and administration fee.

If you pay for your insurance monthly, you may not get a refund, and you may even have to pay extra to cover the time you’ve been insured and, of course, both the administration and cancellation fees.

On the other hand, if your insurance provider decides to cancel your car insurance policy for a specific reason, you will most unlikely receive a refund.

Man Driving Car

What if My Insurer Cancels the Policy?

It would be best if you immediately found a new insurance provider. Even if your car is just parked, you could receive a fine for having no insurance.

Insurance providers do not usually cancel policies, but it can happen in some instances, such as illegal modifications to a car.

When you look to take a new policy elsewhere, you will be asked from the quote stage if you have ever had a motor policy cancelled. You must declare that you had a policy cancelled by your previous insurer. They may decide that they don’t want to insure you, or at the least, you can expect your insurance to go up as you will be considered a higher risk.

Can I cancel My Car Insurance if I’ve Made a Claim?

Yes, you can cancel your insurance. You will most likely not be refunded if you have paid upfront. If you pay monthly for your policy, you may have to pay the outstanding amount in a lump sum.

Will I Lose My No Claims Discount if I Cancel My Car Insurance?

If you have cancelled your car insurance mid-policy, then it’s doubtful that you’ll earn that year’s no-claims discount. You can only achieve this discount after a full year of claim-free driving.

Can I cancel My Car Insurance if I Pay Monthly?

Yes, many customers decide to pay monthly for their car insurance, and there’s nothing to stop these customers from cancelling. Your insurance provider will arrange this for you once you contact them. You will face some administration and cancellation fees. Do not cancel your direct debit without telling your insurance provider. Cancelling your direct debit will cancel your payments and not your policy and could lead to more hassle over unpaid bills.

Man Driving Car

Can I Cancel My Car Insurance Policy if I’m Selling My Car?

If you are selling your car and not buying a replacement car, you should cancel your car insurance policy as soon as you’ve sold the vehicle. This puts the liability away from you and onto the new owner of the car.

If you are buying a replacement car, you can contact your insurance provider to transfer your current policy to your new car. Doing this is easier than cancelling and buying a new policy. You may incur an administration fee for changing your policy, which could become more expensive or cheaper depending on the type of car you bought. Transferring your insurance to your new car will also ensure a full-year NCB, provided you have had no claims or accidents.

Can I dispute the Cancellation Costs?

Yes, you can try to dispute the costs involved in the cancellation procedures, but you may not be successful. The best option is to make sure you understand the cancellation fees before you take out your policy.

If you feel the charges are excessive, explain this to your insurer and see what they say.

I Can’t Contact My Insurer, So How Do I Stop My Car Insurance Renewal?

If you can’t contact your insurer on the phone for any reason, you can send an email instructing them that you don’t want them to renew your policy.

This could be enough to cancel the policy before the renewal date. It is only the policyholder that can cancel an insurance policy.

In your email, you should include:

  • Your policy number and renewal date.
  • The policyholder’s name, date of birth and eircode.
  • Your car’s registration number.

You should also add a reason for cancellation and that you could not contact them over the phone. You should ensure you have valid insurance coverage to cover you from that renewal date. Failure to do so could see you getting a fine, as you are now driving without insurance.

All Our most asked questions are compiled here from Our Car Insurance customers. Let us know if you have any other questions.

Q. Fiat Car Insurance Specialists

A.

Kennco.ie is a specialist insurance broker in FIAT car insurance. We want our customers to know they have the best possible insurance for their new car as a member of Kennco.ie. 

We’re delighted to insure the hundreds of FIAT owners we have as our customers and be the trusted company they turn to in crisis regarding their motoring needs. 

We can insure your FIAT vehicle if it is roadworthy and legally allowed on Irish roads. Our quotations will differ based on your experience as a driver, the cost of your car, the features of your car, your no-claims bonus, and how securely you store your FIAT at your residence. 

You can get a car insurance quote online here. The process only takes a few minutes, and we can provide you with a FIAT car insurance quotation. 

Select your vehicle for a fast online quote

  • FIAT 500 HYBRID
  • FIAT 500E
  • FIAT 500C
  • FIAT 500X
  • FIAT TIPO CROSS
  • FIAT PANDA HYBRID

The History of the FIAT

An Italian by the name Giovanni Agnelli set up FIAT in 1900. He opened the first FIAT factory in Turin. He founded the car company with some local investors. They called the company (FIAT), which stands for Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino. They only employed a small work staff then but proved popular in Italy. Agnelli set up his first FIAT factory abroad in 1908 in the US.

FIAT survived WWII and developed cutting-edge technology creating plans and railways. After the war, they again focused on cars, and FIAT grew in popularity in the US. They built the Fiat 500 and 1400 with both heating and ventilation systems. 

FIAT acquired several brands in the 1980s and 90s, such as Lancia, Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Alfa Romeo and Maserati. They then became FIAT Auto S.P.A. At the beginning of the 1980s, they launched the famous FIAT Panda. 

The FIAT Panda won Car of the Year in 2004, showing their continued success. Agnelli died in 2003 after leaving behind a strong legacy in the automobile industry.

In 2014, FIAT Chrysler Automobiles was founded. They now own Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Maserati, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep, and Ram under this brand.

FIAT today are still a hugely popular car around the world. The FIAT 500 has become one of their top-selling models in Ireland and internationally. 

FIAT Car

Benefits of Being a FIAT Owner

Safety – The FIAT lineup is known for its safety. In 2013, The FIAT 500 was named Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. They have a durable and incredible exterior shell.

Quality – FIAT has built an incredible lineup of cars in recent years. The FIAT 500 was named a Total Quality Award winner by Strategic Vision. It takes an excellent car to win this award. 

Affordability – The FIAT 500 is a fantastic vehicle at a very reasonable price. You can get a tremendously compact car for the same price as consumers buy a used car.

FIAT Insurance Quote 

Kennco.ie has been helping insure FIAT owners since its establishment in 2008. Our specialist agents are here to get you the best possible insurance price for your FIAT. Simply click the button below to get a car insurance quote online today. 

Q. Kia Car Insurance Specialists

A.

Kennco.ie is a specialist insurance broker in Kia car insurance. We want our customers to know they have the best possible insurance available as a member of Kennco.ie. 

We’re delighted to insure the hundreds of Kia owners we have as our customers and be the trusted company they turn to in times of crisis regarding their motoring needs. 

We can insure your Kia vehicle if it is roadworthy and legally allowed on Irish roads. Our quotations will differ based on your experience as a driver, the cost of your car, the features of your car, your no-claims bonus, and how securely you store your Kia at your residence. 

You can get a car insurance quote online 24/7. The process only takes a few minutes, and we can provide you with a Kia car insurance quotation. 

Select your vehicle for a fast online quote

 

  • Kia PicantoKia Picanto
  • Kia Rio
  • Kia Stonic
  • Kia Ceed
  • Kia Ceed Sportswagon Plug-In Hybrid
  • Kia Niro
  • Kia Xceed Plug-In Hybrid
  • Kia e-Niro 
  • Kia e-Soul 
  • Kia Sorrento
  • Kia Sorrento Plug-In Hybrid
  • Kia EV6
  • Kia Sportage

The History of Kia

Kia is the 2nd biggest car manufacturer in South Korea to Hyundai. Hyundai, funnily enough, owns 32.8% of Kia. Kia was established in 1944.

They began by making bike parts and tubing. Then in 1951, they made complete bikes and even motorcycles in 1957, showing a solid taste for innovation. 

They began manufacturing trucks in 1962 and finally cars in 1974. Kia Brisa was the first car produced by Kia. 

Kia had to stop manufacturing cars in 1981 because the South Korean government decided the auto industry was too competitive and wanted Kia to make light trucks instead. 

This order stayed in place until 1986 Kia began producing the Kia Pride. 

Kia Motors America was founded in 1992 when the company began selling vehicles in the US. 

The ’90s were not great for Kia, which led to them filing for bankruptcy in 1997. In 1998, Hyundai acquired 51% of Kia, giving them majority ownership and beating off competition from Ford, another interested party. Hyundai now owns over a third of Kia. 

Kia then began to focus on the EU market and has gone from strength to straight. Some top-rated models today include the Rio, Picanto and Sportage. They have also invested heavily in hybrid vehicles, releasing several hybrid models. Kia is currently the 7th top-selling car manufacturer in Ireland.

Benefits of Being a Kia Owner

  1. Features – Kia offers a range of new features in their cars. A lot of these features focus on safety. Their safety features include Electronic Stability Control and Hill Start Assist Control. 
  2. Roadside Assistance – Kia offers roadside assistance to all their drivers. You don’t need to worry about breaking down or getting a flat tyre.
  3. Warranty – Kia offers one of the best warranties in the industry. When you purchase a Kia, you get a 10-year warranty to relax and have peace of mind when driving. 

Kia Insurance Quote 

Kennco.ie has been helping insure Kia owners since its inception in 2008. We’re fully committed to getting you the best possible insurance price for your Kia today. Simple and quick car insurance quotes are available online today. 

Q. What Is Eco Driving and How It Can Save You Money

A.

Eco-driving is an approach to driving that emphasises fuel efficiency and the reduction of emissions while driving. Increased fuel costs and awareness of the impact of carbon emissions have turned Irish drivers to eco-driving. You may have heard of the phrase before, but you may still be wondering what eco-driving is. We explore this topic and why it’s becoming an increasingly popular driving style.

Eco-Driving

The concept of eco-driving is based on the idea that simple changes in driving habits can save fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The primary goal of eco-driving is to maximise the efficiency of the car’s engine and minimise unnecessary fuel consumption. 

By following eco-driving practices, drivers can contribute to reducing Ireland’s carbon footprint while also saving money on fuel costs.

Eco-Driving Tips

Here are some eco-driving tips that are particularly suitable for Irish drivers:

Plan your route: Before setting out on a journey, plan your route to avoid congestion and heavy traffic. Heavy traffic can cause your car to consume more fuel and emit more pollutants.

Use cruise control: Using cruise control when driving on the motorway can help you maintain a steady speed and reduce fuel consumption.

Maintain your car: Regular car maintenance can help ensure that your car is running efficiently and using less fuel. This includes keeping your tyres inflated, getting regular oil changes, and ensuring that your car is serviced regularly.

Avoid unnecessary weight: Carrying excessive weight in your car can increase fuel consumption. Therefore, remove any heavy items you don’t need from your car.

Drive smoothly: Avoid sudden acceleration and braking when driving. Sudden speed changes can cause your car to consume more fuel and emit more pollutants.

Eco-driving has several benefits beyond the reduction of emissions and fuel costs. Many Irish car insurance companies are starting to recognise the benefits of eco-driving and offer discounts on car insurance premiums for drivers who practice eco-driving. 

In addition, eco-driving can also extend the life of your car and reduce maintenance costs, as well as help you to develop a safer and more efficient driving style.

Conclusion

In conclusion, eco-driving is an excellent way for Irish drivers to reduce their carbon footprint, save money on fuel costs, and even receive discounts on car insurance premiums. By following the simple eco-driving tips mentioned above, Irish drivers can contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment while also enjoying the financial benefits of eco-driving.

Q. 10% off Car Insurance for Students

A.

Car Insurance Student Discount

 

Drive to College With 10% off Your Student Car Insurance

Being a student can be an expensive time, especially when you add up college fees, rent, books and a busy social life! But your car insurance doesn’t have to be expensive. At KennCo, we understand that if you’re a young driver, you may need a little help to get on the road. That’s why we’re offering 10% off student car insurance for all full time students.Student Discount

On top of that, we’ll also take previous named-driver experience into account when we’re providing you with a car insurance quote. Call us today to find out more on 01 409 2600

The qualifying criteria are

  1. Must be between 19 and 26 years of age.
  2. Attending a full time course of at least two year’s duration.
  3. Drive a car less than 1,600 cc.
  4. Car must be no more than 15 years old.
  5. Normal underwriting and acceptance criteria apply.
  6. Hold a valid student card. 

So what are you waiting for, give us a call now on 01 409 2600 to avail of this fantastic offer and drive back to college with some extra cash in your pockets!

Terms and conditions apply. 

Haven’t bought your car yet? Check out our list of affordable cars for young drivers

Q. Mercedes-Benz Car Insurance Specialists

A.

Kennco.ie is a specialist insurance broker in Mercedes-Benz insurance. We understand that being a Mercedes-Benz owner is prestigious and will feel luxurious. We want our customers to know they have the best possible insurance available as a member of Kennco.ie. 

We’re delighted to insure the hundreds of Mercedes owners we have as our customers and be the trusted company they turn to in times of crisis regarding their motoring needs. 

We can insure your Mercedes vehicle if it is roadworthy and legally allowed on Irish roads. Our quotations will differ based on your experience as a driver, the cost of your car, the features of your car, your no-claims bonus, and how securely you store your Mercedes at your residence. 

You can get a car insurance quote online here. The process only takes a few minutes, and we can provide you with a Mercedes car insurance quotation. 

Select your vehicle for a fast online quote

 

  • Mercedes A-Class Hatchback
  • Mercedes B-Class Tourer
  • Mercedes EQE Saloon
  • Mercedes EQS Saloon
  • Mercedes A-Class Saloon
  • Mercedes C-Class Saloon 
  • Mercedes E-Class Saloon
  • Mercedes S-Class Saloon
  • Mercedes A-Class
  • Mercedes B-Class
  • Mercedes C-Class
  • Mercedes E-Class
  • Mercedes S-Class
  • Mercedes V-Class
  • Mercedes GLC
  • Mercedes GLB
  • Mercedes CLA Class
  • Mercedes GLA Class
  • Mercedes GLE Class
  • Mercedes EQA

The History of Mercedes-Benz

History of mercedez benz

Mercedes-Benz is one of the oldest and best-known car brands in the world. They are one of the main luxurious vehicles in the industry. The story begins with the co-founders Gottlieb Daimler and Carl Benz. They wanted to invent a high-speed engine to free the world from the horse and cart. 

The two founders established their own companies, Benz & Cie and Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft (DMG). They were highly competitive and wanted to beat each other to be the best in the market. 

In 1897 an Austrian businessman Emil Jellinek demanded a faster card to be manufactured after buying a Daimler car. He played an essential role in DMG as he was a great salesman. In April 1900, he decided to use his daughter’s name, Mercedes, as their production name. 

The former competitors became partners in 1926, and Daimler-Benz AG was formed. The three-pointed star logo belonged to DMG, surrounded by its trade name Mercedes and the famous “Benz”. 

Mercedes Benz has now been set up for 89 years and evolved into one of the most luxurious and reliable brands. 

Mercedes-Benz is long associated with Formula One. In 2010 they made their return to the sport. The team was rebranded as Mercedes GP Petronas Formula One Team. The Germans have won the last eight constructions championships, with their driver winning seven titles up to 2020. It shows the reliability and performance that Mercedes have in their cars.

 Benefits of Being a Mercedes-Benz Owner

 Benefits of Being a Mercedes-Benz Owner

  1. Prestige – Having a Mercedes-Benz feels elite with its sleek design and fantastic entertainment options. They are always turning heads. 
  2. Safety – They have an entire suite of safety features, from infrared cameras to powerful radars making their care as safe as possible. Their cars undergo strict testing to comply with various safety standards.
  3. Innovative Engineering – Every car feels great to drive, and you will feel ultimate comfort and performance. A Mercedes-Benz feels unique and special. 

Mercedes-Benz Insurance Quote 

 

Kennco.ie has been helping insure Mercedes-Benz owners since its inception in 2008. We’re fully committed to getting you the best possible insurance price for your Mercedes-Benz today. Simply click the button below to get a car insurance quote online today.  

Q. How Can I Pay For My Car Insurance 

A.

Car insurance can be expensive, especially when you’re younger. The majority of insurance providers will provide two options for you to pay your policy.

You can either pay in monthly instalments or a lump sum.

Paying annually is usually cheaper and can reduce your premium but paying monthly may be better for some individuals. It all depends on your circumstances.

The Benefits of Monthly Car Insurance

You will pay more for your car insurance overall if you pay in monthly instalments. If you have a monthly budget and are a young driver, paying for your insurance policy in one lump sum could be challenging, and spreading out your cover in monthly payments may be a lot easier for you.

It will also be easier for you to pay for the next month once you have a budget. 

The Benefits of Annual Car Insurance

how to pay for car insurance

Paying on an annual basis means you will pay a large sum upfront. On the other hand, it will be cheaper in the long term.

You avoid interest rates that are charged for monthly payments. If you are finically able to pay annually and won’t leave you short for money in other areas, you should choose this option.   

Deciding to pay monthly or annually will depend on your circumstances. If you can’t pay a large sum upfront, there may be other ways to reduce your premium. 

Paying Monthly 

If you decide to pay monthly, then you can pay by direct debit. With Kennco Insurance, you must pay 30% of your premium as a deposit, and the remainder of the payments will be made over the next nine months. 

Missing a Payment

If you miss a monthly payment or one fails, we give you seven days to pay over the phone, so there is no need to worry. 

To renew your policy online, click here.

If you want to get a quote online, then visit our car insurance page.

 

Q. Car Insurance Terms

A.

New to Car Insurance Terms? Here’s What You Need to Know.

Buying car insurance can sometimes be a tedious task, especially if you’re a first time buyer. KennCo always try to make purchasing car insurance as easy and simple as possible for you. Therefore, we compiled a list of the most common car insurance terms used.

Driving PhoneThere are some car insurance terms that you will need to be familiar with when purchasing. Below are some translations of basic car insurance terms that are especially relevant when purchasing insurance.

No Claims Bonus

This refers to the amount of years you have held an insurance policy without making a claim. You receive a reduction in the cost of your premium based on the number of years you have been claim free.

Protected No Claims Bonus

This option allows you to protect your no claims bonus for an additional fee onto your premium. By paying to have your bonus protected, in the event of a claim against you, you will not lose any of your bonus.

Step Back

Step back bonus protection means that if you make a claim or someone else make a claim against you, you will lose part of your no claims bonus. The no claims discount will be generally stepped back from 5 years back to 2 years depending on which Insurance company you are insured with. Some companies apply and additional premium for this, however, Kennco offer step-back on all motor insurance policies.

Policy Excess

Is the amount you will have to pay in the event of a claim where you are held liable. For instance, if your excess is for €250 and you’re claiming €3,000, the insurance settlement you’ll receive will be €2,750.

Voluntary Excess

You can set this to increase how much you pay out in the event of a claim. This is usually done to receive a discount on your car insurance policy. 

 

Types of cover

 

Third Party

Third Party Insurance is the most basic level of cover for your Car. It insures you against a claim made against you, such as property damage and personal injury.

Third Party Fire & Theft

Third Party fire & theft provides you with the same as Third party but it includes additional cover for fire, theft, attempted theft and damage to your vehicle included.

Comprehensive

This type of cover incorporates third party, fire and theft cover and it also covers accidental damage to your vehicle. For example, if your car is damaged while parked by an unknown person you can claim for accidental damage.

 

Types of use:

 

Social, Domestic and pleasure

Social, domestic & pleasure use allows you to drive your car privately, for your own personal use.

Class 1

Social, Domestic and pleasure – which includes driving to and from work.

Class 2 – Business use

This covers the vehicle in connection with your job such as driving to different sites from your place of work.

Class 3 – Business Use

It will provide cover for transportation of light goods, for example, flower delivery and selling door-to-door sales.

Breakdown assistance

When you purchase a policy with KennCo you are entitled to unlimited breakdown assistance with our roadside assistance. Unlike other insurance companies, our breakdown assistance also includes Home-Start. This means that if your car breaks down when you’re at home, will still provide assistance.

Foreign Use

Kennco provide full cover in the EU for up to 31 days subject to terms and conditions. This also includes countries outside the EU that meet minimum insurance requirements.

If you have any other queries, we are always on hand to help. Simply give us a call on 01 409 2600.

KennCo Underwriting Ltd T/A KennCo Insurance is regulated by The Central Bank of Ireland.

Q. Tips for Driving Abroad

A.

Driving is an essential mode of transportation, whether commuting to work or exploring a new city. However, driving in a foreign country can be a daunting experience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the local road rules and customs. But don’t worry! With the proper preparation and mindset, driving abroad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. This article will provide essential tips for driving abroad, including preparation, local laws, road signs, and driving customs.

Insurance

Contact your insurer to ensure that your car insurance policy covers driving abroad. If so, be sure to bring the necessary documents with you to prove this. Some insurance companies require you to notify them before bringing your car outside the country. KennCo’s standard insurance policy includes foreign use for up to 31 days. car driving abroad on country road

Car Rentals

Before you drive your car away from the rental company’s depot, be sure to check for any marks or damage to the car. Most car rental companies require you to have a full tank of fuel when you return the car to them. If you return the car without a full tank, you may be charged a penalty fee.

Local Driving Laws and Road Signs

Each country has its unique driving laws and road signs. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate local driving laws and road signs:

  1. Speed Limits: Speed limits can vary significantly between countries. In some countries, there may be different speed limits for different types of roads. Familiarise yourself with the local speed limits and adjust your driving accordingly.
  2. Roundabouts: Roundabouts are common in many countries and can confuse foreign drivers. Remember to give way to traffic already in the roundabout and indicate your intended exit before entering.
  3. Priority: Priority rules can vary between countries. In some countries, drivers on the right have the right of way, while in others, drivers on the left have the right of way. Familiarise yourself with the local priority rules to avoid confusion and potential accidents.
  4. Road Signs: Road signs can vary between countries, and some signs may be unfamiliar to foreign drivers. Study local road signs before hitting the road, and pay attention to warning signs, speed limit signs, and directional signs.

Emergency

When travelling within Europe, the international emergency phone number is 112, which can be called using mobile phones or landlines. When you’re travelling outside of Europe, familiarise yourself with the emergency phone number of your destination country before you begin your journey.

Drink Driving

Do not drink and drive. Alcohol limits vary from country to country so the safest thing to do is avoid drinking if you’re driving.

Driving on the Right

Most European countries require you to drive on the right. Try to stick to motorways for the first few days of your holiday as you will be less likely to mistakenly drive on the wrong side of the road. The following European countries drive on the left: United Kingdom, Ireland, Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersy, Malta and Cyprus.

Warning Triangles

Most European countries require you by law to carry warning triangles in your car in case of emergency. If you are stationary on the road, you must place a warning triangle to warn other drivers.

KennCo Insurance provides great Car Insurance and Travel Insurance. Why not call us on 01 409 2600 to get a quote today.