The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in restrictions on movement and ‘social distancing’ measures which will cause businesses significant challenges in the coming months. There are several concerns and considerations for businesses with vehicles and drivers - whether company cars and vans, passenger transport, or trucks.
Infection control
The virus can live on hard surfaces for hours or even days, depending on the type of surface, so where vehicles are being used by different drivers or for carrying passengers it is important to minimise the risk of infection.
A disinfecting agent, such as ones containing isopropyl alcohol, should be safe to use to wipe down the hard surfaces in most vehicles. It’s important to pay attention to ‘high touch’ areas, including steering wheel, gear lever, door handles, mirror, cupholders and all switches. Alcohol is usually also safe to use on imitation leather. If the vehicle has leather seats, a solution of soap and water can be used.
Once the vehicle interior is clean, make sure that every person sanitises their hands before getting in to stop the risk of further infection.
The virus can live on hard surfaces for hours or even days, depending on the type of surface, so where vehicles are being used by different drivers or for carrying passengers it is important to minimise the risk of infection.
A disinfecting agent, such as ones containing isopropyl alcohol, should be safe to use to wipe down the hard surfaces in most vehicles. It’s important to pay attention to ‘high touch’ areas, including steering wheel, gear lever, door handles, mirror, cupholders and all switches. Alcohol is usually also safe to use on imitation leather. If the vehicle has leather seats, a solution of soap and water can be used.
Once the vehicle interior is clean, make sure that every person sanitises their hands before getting in to stop the risk of further infection.
Petrol pumps
There have been warnings circulating around the web about COVID-19 being spread through petrol pumps. Health experts have stated that petrol pumps offer no greater risk than other surfaces, though people are recommended to use gloves and to clean their hands after using them.
There have been warnings circulating around the web about COVID-19 being spread through petrol pumps. Health experts have stated that petrol pumps offer no greater risk than other surfaces, though people are recommended to use gloves and to clean their hands after using them.
MOT tests
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has announced that vehicle owners will be granted a six-month exemption from MOT testing. All cars, vans and motorcycles will be exempt from needing a test from 30th March. Garages will remain open for essential work and owners are reminded that vehicles must be kept in a safe and roadworthy condition.
MOT tests for lorries, buses and trailers are currently suspended for three months from 21st March. In most cases, the vehicle or trailer will automatically be issued a three-month exemption and owners do not need to do anything further. It is important that vehicles are maintained and kept in a safe, roadworthy condition, and operate within the terms of operators’ licence conditions.
In Northern Ireland, the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) has suspended all MOT tests for three months from 24th March.
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has announced that vehicle owners will be granted a six-month exemption from MOT testing. All cars, vans and motorcycles will be exempt from needing a test from 30th March. Garages will remain open for essential work and owners are reminded that vehicles must be kept in a safe and roadworthy condition.
MOT tests for lorries, buses and trailers are currently suspended for three months from 21st March. In most cases, the vehicle or trailer will automatically be issued a three-month exemption and owners do not need to do anything further. It is important that vehicles are maintained and kept in a safe, roadworthy condition, and operate within the terms of operators’ licence conditions.
In Northern Ireland, the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) has suspended all MOT tests for three months from 24th March.
Driving tests
Driving tests in England, Scotland and Wales have been suspended for up to three months from 21st March, except for people whose work is critical to the COVID-19 response. Workers in sectors such as health and social care, education and childcare, key public services, food and necessary goods, transport and other critical sectors will be able to book an emergency test.
In Northern Ireland, the DVA has suspended practical driving tests across all vehicle categories from 20th March until 22nd June.
Driving tests in England, Scotland and Wales have been suspended for up to three months from 21st March, except for people whose work is critical to the COVID-19 response. Workers in sectors such as health and social care, education and childcare, key public services, food and necessary goods, transport and other critical sectors will be able to book an emergency test.
In Northern Ireland, the DVA has suspended practical driving tests across all vehicle categories from 20th March until 22nd June.
Drivers’ hours rules relaxed
The Department for Transport (DfT) has relaxed the drivers’ hours regulations to help with re-supply of essential items.
DfT had originally agreed to a temporary and limited relaxation of the enforcement of EU drivers’ hours rules in England, Scotland and Wales for the delivery of food, personal care items and over the counter pharmaceuticals. The relaxation has now been extended to apply to all haulage operations in all sectors from 23rd March until 21st April.
The DfT has stressed that driver safety must not be compromised and that no driver should be expected to drive if tired. Employers remain responsible for the health and safety of employees and other road users.
The Department for Transport (DfT) has relaxed the drivers’ hours regulations to help with re-supply of essential items.
DfT had originally agreed to a temporary and limited relaxation of the enforcement of EU drivers’ hours rules in England, Scotland and Wales for the delivery of food, personal care items and over the counter pharmaceuticals. The relaxation has now been extended to apply to all haulage operations in all sectors from 23rd March until 21st April.
The DfT has stressed that driver safety must not be compromised and that no driver should be expected to drive if tired. Employers remain responsible for the health and safety of employees and other road users.
Vehicles not being used on the road
The COVID-19 situation continues to evolve. Scaled back or suspended operations may cause businesses to consider laying up vehicles for a while. If so, the following general guidance may be useful, which should be used in conjunction with vehicle manufacturer advice.
If you own a vehicle that you no longer want to drive on a public road, you can declare your vehicle ‘off road’ by making a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN). A SORN informs the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) that you are registering the vehicle as off the road. The vehicle cannot be driven or parked on a public road when it has been declared as SORN.
Where to store?
Consider where you will keep the vehicle/s. A garage or locked building is obviously ideal to store a vehicle, to provide protection from the elements and theft. One of the problems with storing vehicles is deterioration due to the effects of atmospheric moisture. For metals, this deterioration takes the form of rust and corrosion. As the humidity of the air increases so does the rate of corrosion of metals through increased condensation and oxidisation.
Safety and security
The choice of storage has implications for the physical security of stored vehicles. Locked buildings can help with security, and offer some protection against theft, arson or damage, but can also increase the significance of fire risks and safety issues connected with the density of storage. Also consider any risk of flooding due to inclement weather. Take all relevant risk factors into consideration and utilise CCTV if you have it.
The COVID-19 situation continues to evolve. Scaled back or suspended operations may cause businesses to consider laying up vehicles for a while. If so, the following general guidance may be useful, which should be used in conjunction with vehicle manufacturer advice.
If you own a vehicle that you no longer want to drive on a public road, you can declare your vehicle ‘off road’ by making a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN). A SORN informs the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) that you are registering the vehicle as off the road. The vehicle cannot be driven or parked on a public road when it has been declared as SORN.
Where to store?
Consider where you will keep the vehicle/s. A garage or locked building is obviously ideal to store a vehicle, to provide protection from the elements and theft. One of the problems with storing vehicles is deterioration due to the effects of atmospheric moisture. For metals, this deterioration takes the form of rust and corrosion. As the humidity of the air increases so does the rate of corrosion of metals through increased condensation and oxidisation.
Safety and security
The choice of storage has implications for the physical security of stored vehicles. Locked buildings can help with security, and offer some protection against theft, arson or damage, but can also increase the significance of fire risks and safety issues connected with the density of storage. Also consider any risk of flooding due to inclement weather. Take all relevant risk factors into consideration and utilise CCTV if you have it.
Cleanliness
It may seem pointless to wash the vehicle when it’s about to be laid up for an unknown period, but it shouldn't be overlooked. Pay particular attention to undersides of the vehicle and wheels/tyres to remove dirt and mud.
Oil changes
Used engine oil may have contaminants in which could damage the engine, so consult the manufacturer’s instructions. Try to arrange for periodic monitoring for visible oil leaks.
Fuel Tank
Consider filling the fuel tank. A full tank may prevent moisture from accumulating and keep the seals from drying out.
Use of the Parking Brake
Consult the manufacturer’s instructions on whether to use the parking brake (depending on how long you plan to leave the vehicle laid up). This may help to prevent brake pads from fusing. Also consider use of vehicle chocks, to prevent movement.
Keep tyres inflated
Make sure that tyres are inflated to the recommended pressure. If a vehicle is left stationary for too long, the tyres could develop flat spots as the weight of the vehicle presses down on the tyre’s footprints. This process occurs at a faster rate in colder temperatures. A flat spot can become a permanent part of the tyre, and it will need to be replaced.
Rodents and birds
Rodents and birds can, and often do, enter storage premises and vehicle areas because they can offer dry and warm shelter. There are plenty of places in a vehicle for creatures to hide and things for them to chew on, including wiring looms. Bird droppings are alkaline and can corrode paintwork and metals as well as encouraging the growth of micro-organisms.
Vehicle battery
Left unattended a vehicle battery will eventually lose its charge. To avoid coming back to a dead battery you should consider if it’s possible to have someone to start the vehicle every couple of weeks and drive it for about 15 minutes (if safe to do so). Driving the vehicle periodically has several benefits. It will maintain the battery's charge, bring the tyres up to their normal operating temperature and get rid of any flat spots and keep the engine and other components lubricated. It’s also a good idea to run the air conditioner (if relevant) to keep the parts in working order and the air quality fresh.
Cleanliness
It may seem pointless to wash the vehicle when it’s about to be laid up for an unknown period, but it shouldn't be overlooked. Pay particular attention to undersides of the vehicle and wheels/tyres to remove dirt and mud.
Oil changes
Used engine oil may have contaminants in which could damage the engine, so consult the manufacturer’s instructions. Try to arrange for periodic monitoring for visible oil leaks.
Fuel Tank
Consider filling the fuel tank. A full tank may prevent moisture from accumulating and keep the seals from drying out.
Use of the Parking Brake
Consult the manufacturer’s instructions on whether to use the parking brake (depending on how long you plan to leave the vehicle laid up). This may help to prevent brake pads from fusing. Also consider use of vehicle chocks, to prevent movement.
Keep tyres inflated
Make sure that tyres are inflated to the recommended pressure. If a vehicle is left stationary for too long, the tyres could develop flat spots as the weight of the vehicle presses down on the tyre’s footprints. This process occurs at a faster rate in colder temperatures. A flat spot can become a permanent part of the tyre, and it will need to be replaced.
Rodents and birds
Rodents and birds can, and often do, enter storage premises and vehicle areas because they can offer dry and warm shelter. There are plenty of places in a vehicle for creatures to hide and things for them to chew on, including wiring looms. Bird droppings are alkaline and can corrode paintwork and metals as well as encouraging the growth of micro-organisms.
Vehicle battery
Left unattended a vehicle battery will eventually lose its charge. To avoid coming back to a dead battery you should consider if it’s possible to have someone to start the vehicle every couple of weeks and drive it for about 15 minutes (if safe to do so). Driving the vehicle periodically has several benefits. It will maintain the battery's charge, bring the tyres up to their normal operating temperature and get rid of any flat spots and keep the engine and other components lubricated. It’s also a good idea to run the air conditioner (if relevant) to keep the parts in working order and the air quality fresh.
Getting back on the road
When Government advice says it’s safe to do so, things to consider for bringing vehicles out of storage include:
• Ensure appropriate insurance, MOT and vehicle tax are in place
• Check under the bonnet for any evidence of pests/rodents and look for chewed belts, hoses and wires
• Check all fluid levels before you start the engine to make sure there have been no leaks and that they are at the recommended levels
• If the battery cable has been disconnected, make sure that you reconnect it and that the battery terminals are clean
• Check the windscreen wipers to see if the rubber is cracked or brittle
• Check the tyre pressures and inflate to the recommended specification
• Check the brakes as rust may have built up, which, in most cases, should go away after you drive the vehicle for a short time
• Wash the vehicle to remove any dirt that may have accumulated.
When Government advice says it’s safe to do so, things to consider for bringing vehicles out of storage include:
• Ensure appropriate insurance, MOT and vehicle tax are in place
• Check under the bonnet for any evidence of pests/rodents and look for chewed belts, hoses and wires
• Check all fluid levels before you start the engine to make sure there have been no leaks and that they are at the recommended levels
• If the battery cable has been disconnected, make sure that you reconnect it and that the battery terminals are clean
• Check the windscreen wipers to see if the rubber is cracked or brittle
• Check the tyre pressures and inflate to the recommended specification
• Check the brakes as rust may have built up, which, in most cases, should go away after you drive the vehicle for a short time
• Wash the vehicle to remove any dirt that may have accumulated.
Supporting our customers and broker partners
A thorough understanding of the motor market combined with a proactive approach to helping customers manage risk and reduce claims have established QBE as a name to trust in commercial motor insurance. We’re highly regarded for our expertise in insuring business car and van fleets, bus and coach fleets and are the UK leader in minibus insurance.
QBE remains committed to supporting our customers in this difficult time and while the issue around MOT tests exists, we will not require customers to hold a valid MOT certificate, provided all other insurance policy conditions are met. Customers must take all reasonable precautions to maintain vehicles or trailers in both a safe and roadworthy condition and to protect from damage or loss.
Insurance policies differ based on each customers’ circumstances so if you have any specific concerns please check the terms of your policy and contact your insurance broker or ourselves for more information.
A thorough understanding of the motor market combined with a proactive approach to helping customers manage risk and reduce claims have established QBE as a name to trust in commercial motor insurance. We’re highly regarded for our expertise in insuring business car and van fleets, bus and coach fleets and are the UK leader in minibus insurance.
QBE remains committed to supporting our customers in this difficult time and while the issue around MOT tests exists, we will not require customers to hold a valid MOT certificate, provided all other insurance policy conditions are met. Customers must take all reasonable precautions to maintain vehicles or trailers in both a safe and roadworthy condition and to protect from damage or loss.
Insurance policies differ based on each customers’ circumstances so if you have any specific concerns please check the terms of your policy and contact your insurance broker or ourselves for more information.
Further reading
Vehicle owners to be granted MOT exemption in battle against coronavirus
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/vehicle-owners-to-be-granted-mot-exemption-in-battle-against-coronavirus
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance: MOTs for lorries, buses and trailers
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-mots-for-lorries-buses-and-trailers
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance: driving tests and theory tests
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-driving-tests-and-theory-tests
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance: drivers’ hours relaxations
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-on-drivers-hours-relaxations/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-on-drivers-hours-relaxations
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Traffic commissioners’ guidance: contingency and emergency planning
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/traffic-commissioners-contingency-and-emergency-planning-covid-19
Register your vehicle as off the road (SORN)
https://www.gov.uk/make-a-sorn
Vehicle owners to be granted MOT exemption in battle against coronavirus
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/vehicle-owners-to-be-granted-mot-exemption-in-battle-against-coronavirus
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance: MOTs for lorries, buses and trailers
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-mots-for-lorries-buses-and-trailers
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance: driving tests and theory tests
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-driving-tests-and-theory-tests
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance: drivers’ hours relaxations
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-on-drivers-hours-relaxations/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-on-drivers-hours-relaxations
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Traffic commissioners’ guidance: contingency and emergency planning
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/traffic-commissioners-contingency-and-emergency-planning-covid-19
Register your vehicle as off the road (SORN)
https://www.gov.uk/make-a-sorn
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