Motor Insurance Made Easier?

The industry body having originally made the request in its response to the DfT's consultation on the matter - which has just closed.

BIBA argues the move would make a huge difference to the motor insurance market, creating an estimated £11 million in savings for the intermediary sector alone. Allowing for electronic delivery would also have a positive impact on consumers, significantly reducing delivery times and creating better adherence to FSA contract certainty requirements. The other major benefit of this proposal is the potential for a positive impact on the environment.

Each year over 30 million vehicles in the UK are insured, requiring over 30 million letters to be printed and posted to consumers. Allowing for the electronic delivery of motor insurance certificates would dramatically reduce the need for packing materials, and would require consumers to print off a copy only when necessary.

Commenting on its submission, BIBA Technical Services Manager, Graeme Trudgill said: "In its consultation document, the DfT states that it is keen to encourage developments in technology which bring benefits and we believe this is essential. The insurance industry has been forced to stay in the dark ages for too long, and we are eager to start providing up-to-date services to our customers.

"We believe that allowing the insurance industry to issue electronic motor insurance certificates would have a positive effect for consumers, the industry and the environment. We urge the DfT to take these factors on board when considering its final proposals."