Warning over uninsured towing

CONCERNS have been raised that a number of company car drivers who tow caravans may not be properly insured.

Many unknowingly tow their caravan without adequate insurance cover or permission from their employer.

Company motorists are being warned that should the car and caravan be involved in an accident it could result in hefty repair costs, which they will have to pay, and also a fine for their employer for failing to provide adequate insurance cover for drivers.

John Webb, fleet consultant of Lex Momentum, a division of vehicle leasing company Lex, said: “All company car drivers should consult with their employer or driver handbook before they tow anything, including a small trailer.

“If published towing policies aren’t in place they should seek guidance from their fleet manager or HR department. Under no circumstances should they tow without prior agreement as they may not be covered under their company’s insurance policy.”

Mr Webb adds that all weights and measures are quoted in a car’s handbook. These should be consulted by both driver and employer before a company car is used.

He said: “It is imperative the quality of the tow bar and its fitting meets the required safety standards. If a car is owned by a leasing company it will probably wants its approved supplier to install the towbar based on the car’s size and official towing capacity.”

Lex advises first time towers to consider some training in caravan or trailer towing before embarking on a long journey.

The Caravan Club suggests that a car should not tow a caravan more than 85% of its towing kerb weight, providing 85% does not exceed the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended towing limit.

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