Named drivers on motability question

DebsRetired

I am at the start of investigating a Motability car for my disabled SIL for whom I have Powers of Attorney. She lives in supported living and is unable to make decisions for herself which is why I have POA. If we get a car (I know that we have the PIP entitlement), would I have to be a named driver since it may have to be in my name?

The carers in the house she lives in can be named drivers and have indicated they already do this for another resident. Since I believe there can only be 3 named drivers at a time and only one of them can be under 25 years, I want to ensure that the carers have the maximum options to be able to drive it. I have my own car and would take her out in that when required.

What are the downsides to having only carers as named drivers but being the responsible name on the policy?

Thanks for any incites anyone can provide.

CliveOfIndia

Technically you don't have to be a named driver - if your SIL is logged as the main driver and/or policyholder, she can then add any named drivers she wants. It doesn't really matter who the RK is.

But often, you'll find the insurance is a bit more expensive if the policy-holder is different to the RK. Sometimes it's only a small difference, sometimes it can make a fair difference. That said, you mustn't declare yourself as main driver if that's not the case.

That said, do check whether there are any motability-specific restrictions (which may be more restrictive than the strict legal requirements).

"What are the downsides to having only carers as named drivers but being the responsible name on the policy?"

What do you mean by "responsible"? If the policy is in your name (even if you're not the main driver), then any claims would impact your NCD and claims history. Any claim is against that policy, and since you're the policyholder, and claim is recorded against you.

But you don't have to be the PH nor even a named driver if you don't want to - as I said, it may push the premiums up slightly.

born_again

You can have more than 3 people on the ins, but you need to apply for this level of cover (think with DL)

If unsure than ring Motability & they will advise.

Grey_Critic

Not sure the policy can be in your name - easy answer is speak with Motability and they make the rules.

I also wonder about your comment only carers as named drivers - It could very easily become the very handy runabout. How often would your SIL be going out and about in it. Could actually be cheaper for a taxi paid for by the people do forget that the car PIP entitlement.

Holding POA for someone unable to make decisions for themselves is not the same as for someone able to do so. Our sons have POAs for both my wife and myself although have never been required to act on them but I do email them a copy of our financial status on a monthly basis which we agreed when we set up the POAs and they advise us on our finances from time to time.

Holding a POA and managing their finances requires the keeping of accounts so whilst you may decide it is in their interest for them to have a Motability car you would need to ensure it is not abused. Motability do inspect vehicles on a regular basis and will insist on keeping it in good condition and any damages not covered by insurance are undertaken or they will have it done and charge you.

born_again

One thing now, any under 30 drivers & black box is required.

knightstyle

It is easy to add and delete drivers as required using the website. Insurance is by Direct Line and is generally good with a replacement car provided if the car becomes unusable. Check what the excess will be as it is different for each driver depending on their age and NCB.

Herzlos

I think the car would need to be in her name, and whilst you're talking about using your car to take her places you may still need to drive hers as presumably you'd be the one collecting it and taking it to get serviced etc?

How are the carers organised; is it an agency with essentially random staff, or a fixed number of dedicated carers? I don't actually know how the former works but the latter you should be able to arrange something with motabliity.

Savvy_Sue

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81902557#Comment_81902557

The 'handy runabout' issue can be addressed by asking for a log of journeys to be kept, and then reviewing it. It's not an unreasonable requirement, because if any traffic violations are flagged then the carers need to know who was driving.

Date, time, driver, passengers, purpose / destination, return time, notes.

(A friend is in a similar situation with mobility car for an adult child in supported accommodation. There were issues with the supported adults being asked if they minded doing X, Y or Z while out. No, they didn't mind because they enjoy being out in the car, BUT they don't have capacity to agree to giving staff lifts!)

Albermarle

Technically you don't have to be a named driver - if your SIL is logged as the main driver and/or policyholder, she can then add any named drivers she wants.

Not sure if she can legally be the main driver and policy holder, if she clearly has significant mental capacity issues?

 She lives in supported living and is unable to make decisions for herself which is why I have POA. 

As others have suggested a chat with Motability seems the obvious next step. They must have experience of many similar situations.

Grey_Critic

Talk to Motability - far better than running foul of the rules and anything you read here is just someones PERSONAL view.

Wobbly_World

Where there is likely to be multiple people driving the vehicle for the benefit of the Motability costumer, there are two options:

1. Add and remove individuals as drivers whenever you need to
2. Request an open insurance policy (see below)

Your drivers | Motability Scheme

If the disabled person has multiple carers

You might need an open insurance policy if several carers regularly drive the car.

You may be eligible if:

• The customer lives in or is eligible to live in a care or nursing home, or residential school
• The customer needs 24-hour care
• The customer uses a WAVWheelchair Accessible Vehicle and needs multiple drivers

To be insured on an open policy, drivers must:

• Hold a full UK or EU licence
• Have no at-fault accidents in the last 3 years
• Have no motoring convictions in the last 5 years