VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS

Many charitable and voluntary groups expect employees and volunteers to use their own vehicles to carry out business. Usually the car user will be paid a certain amount per mile which will cover the cost of petrol, wear and tear on the car and other general running costs such as servicing and insurance cover.

In these cases the employee is required to ensure that their insurance covers the use of the vehicle, not just for the normal 'social, domestic and pleasure' purposes, but also for use by the policy-holder in connection with their work.

Where groups make use of volunteers using their car for the business of the charity, whether or not they claim for the journey, the driver must make sure that the car insurer is aware of the circumstances. The Association of British Insurers have produced a model letter for such a purpose, and a copy of this should be available from the insurer.

Most insurers do not charge any extra premium for volunteers using their cars to assist a charity or community organisation. However, if a volunteer fails to notify his/her insurer regarding that use, then the insurance policy can be invalidated, which my result in the driver being personally liable for any damage or injuries sustained in an accident.

If organisations are using employees or volunteers to provide transport or drivers for users of their services, then they should aim to follow the main good practice standards outlined for employers on the "Good Practice" page.