When purchasing VTC insurance, it is essential to understand not only the guarantees included, but also the exclusions that can limit coverage. Exclusions are situations or events for which the insurer will not cover the damage, leaving the VTC driver responsible for the costs. Knowing these exclusions allows you to better manage risks and avoid unpleasant surprises in the event of a claim. In this article, we review the common exclusions to know in order to choose your VTC insurance wisely.
1. Damage Caused Outside Declared Professional Use
VTC insurance is designed to cover journeys made as part of your professional activity. However, certain types of journeys are not covered:
- Undeclared private use : If your insurance contract only covers professional use, personal or family journeys will not be covered in the event of a claim.
- Unauthorized Activities : Any use of the vehicle for activities other than passenger transportation, such as deliveries, may be excluded if not specifically covered by your contract.
2. Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
One of the strictest exclusions of VTC insurance contracts concerns driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or non-prescribed medication:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol : If an accident occurs while you are exceeding the legal blood alcohol level, the insurer will not cover the damage caused.
- Consumption of narcotics : Any loss occurring under the influence of drugs or prohibited substances is systematically excluded from the guarantees.
- Medications with contraindications : Some medications can impair driving ability. Always check for contraindications before driving.
3. Intentional Damage or Fraud
Intentional damage, fraud or false statements are common exclusions in VTC insurance contracts:
- Intentional acts : If the damage is caused intentionally, for example during an argument with a passenger, the insurance will not cover the costs.
- Attempted Insurance Fraud : Any attempt to deceive the insurer by misrepresenting or exaggerating damages will not only result in exclusion of coverage, but may also lead to legal action.
- Failure to Report Previous Claims : Failure to report previous claims when purchasing may result in coverage being voided.
4. Failure to Comply with the Conditions of the Insurance Contract
Failure to comply with the contractual obligations stipulated in the contract may also result in exclusion of the guarantees:
- Vehicle maintenance and servicing : Damage caused by lack of maintenance (worn tires, defective brakes) can be excluded. Drivers must keep their vehicles in good working order.
- Modification of the vehicle without authorization : Any undeclared or unauthorized modification (addition of parts, tuning) may result in exclusion from the warranty in the event of a claim.
- Failure to comply with safety regulations : Claims arising because the driver was not wearing a seat belt or was carrying passengers without adequate protection may be excluded.
5. Transport of Non-Standard or Unauthorized Passengers
VTC insurance contracts generally specify the conditions for accepting passengers. Failure to comply with these conditions may result in exclusion from coverage:
- Transporting more passengers than expected : If the number of passengers carried exceeds the authorized capacity of the vehicle, insurance companies may refuse to cover the damage.
- Unauthorized passengers : The carriage of passengers in risky situations (sporting events, demonstrations) without specific coverage may be excluded.
6. Losses occurring outside the Covered Geographic Areas
Most VTC insurance contracts define specific geographic areas where coverage is valid. It is important to respect these limitations:
- Areas not covered : If your contract stipulates coverage limited to mainland France, any loss occurring abroad will not be covered.
- Travel outside of authorized journeys : Claims occurring outside of declared business journeys, such as personal or leisure journeys abroad, may be excluded.
7. Damages Caused by Natural Disasters or Exceptional Events
Natural disasters and certain exceptional events are not always included in basic insurance:
- Floods, storms, and earthquakes : These events are often covered by specific natural disaster insurance, which must be purchased as an option.
- Riots and acts of terrorism : Damage caused by riots, civil unrest, or acts of terrorism are also often excluded, unless specific cover has been taken out.
8. Damage to Passengers’ Personal Property
It is important to know that VTC insurance does not systematically cover the personal property of passengers transported:
- Baggage and personal effects : In the event of theft or loss of baggage on board the vehicle, the insurance does not cover compensation, unless specific cover has been taken out.
- Liability for valuables : Valuables (laptops, phones, jewelry) damaged or stolen from the vehicle are not covered by default.
9. Damages Consequential to a Failure of Additional Insurance
Certain exclusions apply in the absence of additional guarantees which should have been subscribed:
- No theft cover : If you have not taken out theft cover, any damage resulting from an attempted theft (broken windows, forced locks) will not be covered.
- No glass breakage guarantee : Damage to windows and windshields is only covered if glass breakage guarantee has been added to the contract.
Conclusion
Knowing the common exclusions of your VTC insurance is essential to avoid unpleasant surprises and to adjust your contract according to your specific needs. A good reading of the terms and conditions of the contract, as well as an open discussion with your insurer or broker, will allow you to benefit from optimal coverage and take measures to avoid risky situations.
At KT VTC&TAXI, we help you understand the exclusions of your insurance contract and choose the guarantees that best suit your VTC driver activity. Contact us today for personalized advice and a tailor-made quote.