Understanding Public Liability for Classic Car Shows: A Guide for Enthusiasts
As the 2024 classic car show season comes to a close, here at Abbeyfields Insurance, we’ve taken the opportunity to reflect on the wonderful events we’ve attended over the past few months. The quality and condition of the classic vehicles on display has been truly exceptional!
We have been overjoyed with the feedback we’ve received from our current customers about how we’ve been looking after them, and we’ve also had the pleasure of meeting many soon-to-be Abbeyfields Insurance customers too. These events are the perfect platform to discuss not only the classic car scene but also the ins and outs of classic car insurance, which is a hot topic for owners and enthusiasts alike.
One topic that has come up several times this season is the requirement for additional Public Liability Insurance when showing vehicles at certain events. In this blog, we aim to clarify when this additional coverage is needed, why some car show organisers request it, and why your motor insurers might decline such requests. Our very own Jayne Jordan has experience in running the insurance scheme for one of the national Traction Engine Clubs, so we draw on her experience to provide the answers.
What Insurance Is Needed to Show Your Classic Car?
When you display your classic car at an event, you generally only need to meet the legal minimum insurance requirements for using a vehicle on public roads, which is Road Traffic Act/Third Party Insurance. This type of insurance provides cover for your legal liability to others in the event of injury, death, or property damage caused by your vehicle.
However, additional Public Liability Insurance is sometimes requested by event organisers. This request is not aimed at individual car owners, but is instead required for car clubs, stallholders, vendors, and for specific types of vehicles such as steam engines and traction engines.
Why Are Public Liability Requests Declined by Your Motor Insurer?
If you’ve been asked to provide proof of Public Liability Insurance for an event and your motor insurer has declined, this is likely because the insurance policy you have for your vehicle doesn’t include Public Liability cover. Classic car insurance policies are designed to provide cover for risks associated with driving and operating your vehicle, not for covering liabilities beyond that scope, such as general event-related incidents.
Who Needs Public Liability Insurance at Classic Car Shows?
- Car Clubs: If you're part of a car club that is attending or hosting an event, the club itself will need Public Liability Insurance. This coverage protects the club in case a club member or their display causes injury or damage.
- Stallholders and Vendors: Anyone setting up a stall or selling products at the event will also require Public Liability Insurance to protect against any accidents or damages that may occur as a result of their activities or equipment.
- Steam and Traction Engines: These vehicles require additional coverage due to their unique risks. As steam-powered vehicles can produce sparks, ashes and even have an explosion risk, they need insurance that covers injuries or damage caused by these hazards, which is often provided under the Public Liability section of a steam vehicle policy.
An Example of Public Liability in Action
One of our clients had their classic car damaged while on display at a show. The car was parked next to an advertising flag, and during strong winds, the flagpole fell over, scratching one of the panels on the car. In this instance, the liability rested with the event organiser or the party responsible for the flag, not the car owner.
What If You Cause Damage or Injury?
If you’re a member of a car club attending the event, you are personally covered under the club’s Public Liability policy. The club is required to have this insurance in place to attend shows, meaning if something were to happen and you were found liable, the club's insurance would provide the necessary coverage.
If you’re attending a car show and you’re not a member of a car club, then the Road Traffic Act/Third Party Insurance will cover you for your legal liability to others in the event of injury, death, or property damage caused by your vehicle.
What if the event organiser is insisting you personally hold a public liability certificate?
Ask the event organiser if steam-vehicles are in attendance and usually when this answer is yes, general car exhibitors tend to come across this issue. Tell the event organiser that your vehicle is not a steam-engine and therefore does not require a public liability certificate.
If you are a Car Club organising your attendance, then you will be required to demonstrate your proof of public liability on behalf of your club.
Concluding Thoughts
In conclusion, while your standard classic car insurance policy provides the necessary legal cover to display your vehicle at events, additional Public Liability Insurance is only required if you are a car club, stallholder/vendor or have a steam-powered vehicle. Make sure to understand the specific requirements of the event organisers and consult with your insurance broker if you have any questions.
If you’re unsure whether your policy meets the needs of your upcoming show appearances, feel free to contact us at Abbeyfields Insurance on 0121 550 2380 or email info@abbeyfieldsinsurance.co.uk. We’re here to help you protect your classic vehicle and ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience at every event!
Stuart Moore
Stuart is our club liaison and has been proudly petrol heading since he can remember. He's also knows a thing or too about specialist vehicle insurance. Get a quote online or call Stuart on 0121 550 2380 - he's here 9 am to 5 pm, Mon to Fri.