Can Vehicle Insurance Be Suspended During Non-Use?
2 Answers
Vehicle insurance can be extended during periods of non-use. If a car will not be driven temporarily, it's best to first complete the suspension procedures at the vehicle management department. This will normally postpone the annual inspection without any negative impact. Otherwise, it may affect the vehicle and vessel tax included in the compulsory traffic insurance. Important Notes: For vehicle insurance, commercial insurance can be fully canceled, while compulsory traffic insurance cannot be canceled for vehicle deregistration or theft cases. However, the insurance period of compulsory traffic insurance can be extended. Procedure: If the proper procedures are followed, there will be no negative consequences. Failure to complete the suspension procedures at the vehicle management department may result in missed inspections, which could lead to penalties or even vehicle deregistration. If suspension procedures aren't completed and neither insurance nor vehicle and vessel tax is paid, the owner will be required to pay the previous year's vehicle and vessel tax when purchasing insurance the following year.
Last time my car was unused for half a year, I researched this to save on insurance costs. The compulsory traffic insurance part can't be touched—it's a national requirement to ensure liability coverage in case of accidents. Commercial insurance like vehicle damage insurance can be suspended. I contacted the insurance company, clarified the parking dates, and provided some proof like parking lot records. They helped me suspend it, saving me a few hundred bucks. But note that during the suspension period, there's no coverage for theft or damage to the vehicle—you have to wait until the insurance is restored. Don't be lazy; handle it promptly to avoid fines for being uninsured. For long-term parking, it's best to perform vehicle maintenance like disconnecting the battery and checking tires to prevent aging. Restoring insurance is simple—just fill out an online form. Saving money is good, but safety comes first.
