Penalty Points & Insurance Companies

[Enigma1983]

I understand that penalty points for minor offences are valid for 3 years, and stay on the license for 4 years.

So after 3 years, they are no longer valid - why should I tell my insurance company? They always ask for any convictions in the last 5 years - but this is unfair - my points have expired, why should I pay more for insuranc?

Any views welcome - particularly on the legality of not revealing *expired* points.

Thanks

[Loosehead]

You are correct, it is unfair but they make the rules. If you don't tell them and then later claim and they find out then they will use it as an excuse for not paying. I only tell them about ones actually on my license, why should they punish you beyond what the authorities deem suitable?

It could technically be fraud for not divulging but in reality they'll just welsh on paying of they find out.

[JudgeJ]

You may think it unfair but as Loosehead says, they provide the cover and they are entitled to make the rules. You will also note that they usually ask for details of accidents or claims going back for the same length of time.

As for non-disclosure, you should be very careful. If you are unfortunate enough to have an accident where they have to pay out they will almost certainly ask to see your licence. If it is discovered you made a false statement to obtain your policy it will invalidate your insurance. Not only will this mean you are liable for the all the costs of the accident yourself (and these can be absolutely crippling if even minor personal injury is involved) but you could also face prosecution for driving uninsured. And this leads to � you�ve guessed it � points on your licence!

It is always best to come clean and declare what they ask for. It might cost you a bit extra but it could save you a fortune.

[Enigma1983]

Sorted - got hold of DVLA today - as they are renewiing my licence with a new catagory anyway they said the new one will be clean - as my points have expired.

Therefore, I now have no points. Sorted. Cheers for the quick replies!