Drivers told not to invalidate insurance over issue found in every car

Motorists could be at risk of invalidating their car insurance agreement due to a problem able to affect every car in the UK. Dashboard warning lights are a range of symbols that indicate potential vehicle issues, highlighting problems with everything from oil levels to battery concerns.

Warning lights depend on the severity of the issue, with red, yellow and orange lights likely indicating a serious issue. However, experts have warned that failing to act when a dashboard light flashes up could backfire, with insurance agreements likely to be invalidated in the event of an accident.

Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, Claire Wills-McKissick, insurance expert at Tempcover stressed individuals were at risk.

Claire said: “Ignoring a dashboard warning light is a contractual gamble. When you purchase insurance – whether for a month or just a few hours – you agree to a ‘duty of care’ to maintain the vehicle in a roadworthy condition. The moment a warning light illuminates, it serves as a clear indicator that the vehicle’s safety or legality may be compromised.

“If you continue to drive with a known fault and are involved in an incident, you risk your insurer deeming the policy invalid for that journey.

“Most policies contain specific roadworthiness clauses; if a mechanical failure caused by an ignored warning light contributes to a collision, the insurer is within their rights to reject the claim. This leaves the driver personally liable for all costs and potentially facing the legal consequences of driving a vehicle with a known safety defect.”

As well as invalidating car insurance agreements, dashboard warning lights can have a range of other serious consequences. An illuminated red or amber warning light on your dashboard is an automatic MOT failure if it indicates a serious fault.

Cars found breaching air pollutant emissions standards thresholds could be slapped up to a £1,000 fine, with van, lorry and bus drivers likely to be hit with a £2,500 charge.

Claire added: “Our advice to drivers is to never risk your cover by ignoring a warning light. If a light comes on, the vehicle should be inspected by a professional immediately.”