Drivers across England are being warned about driving during lockdown for non essential travel, but have been reassured that they will stay insured if they do.
With England currently being under lockdown until December 2, people are being told to stay at home and only leave for specific reasons.
The Government has published 32 pages of regulations including exceptions to the general stay-at-home message.
Specific reasons include education, for recreational purposes or to buy food and other essential items.
People being found to have left their home for any illegitimate reason could be fined £200 by the police.
Previously, a motoring lawyer had warned drivers that their insurance could be 'void' if they took unnecessary journeys during the lockdown period.
But official advice from the Association of British Insurers (ABI) on motoring issues during the pandemic says: "During lockdown the Government has advised against all but essential travel.
"Motor insurers continue to cover those using their vehicle for commuting to work and NHS volunteering without you having to first tell them.
"You should follow Government restrictions, but if you do use your car for non-essential travel, you will not risk invalidating your car insurance.”
If you’re unsure about cover during the lockdown period then speak to your insurer for clarification.
Motoring lawyer Nick Freeman, known as Mr Loophole for helping celeb clients facing driving charges, previously said: “Essential travel is largely defined as shopping for necessities, picking up medical supplies, caring for a vulnerable person and getting to and from work if you cannot do so from home.
"Anything else is not really acceptable. If you have an accident and can’t prove your journey was essential your insurance may be void.”
This warning was also echoed by website USwitch and insurance company Castle, but disputed by the ABI.
A reminder has also been issued to drivers that even if they are not using their car during the lockdown period, they should refrain from cancelling their policy if their car isn't kept on private land as it is illegal to leave an uninsured car on a road.
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