As a VTC (Vehicle for Transport with Driver) driver in France, it is crucial to understand and comply with the legal insurance requirements. These requirements are designed to ensure the safety of passengers, other road users, and the drivers themselves. In this article, we detail the main legal insurance requirements for VTC drivers in France and explain how to ensure your coverage complies with current regulations.
1. Liability insurance
Civil liability insurance (CL) is the mandatory minimum coverage for all vehicles on public roads in France, including VTCs. This insurance covers bodily injury and material damage caused to third parties in the event of an accident for which you are responsible. Civil liability is essential to guarantee the protection of passengers, pedestrians, other drivers, and public property.
2. Professional liability insurance
As a VTC driver, you must also take out professional liability insurance. This insurance covers bodily injury, material damage and non-material damage caused to passengers in the course of your professional activity. For example, if a passenger is injured while entering or exiting your vehicle, this insurance will cover medical expenses and any compensation.
3. Comprehensive or intermediate insurance
Although comprehensive insurance is not a legal requirement, it is highly recommended for VTC drivers. This coverage offers more comprehensive protection, including damage to your own vehicle, even in the event of an at-fault accident. Comprehensive insurance can also include additional guarantees such as theft, fire, and glass breakage. Failing that, intermediate insurance, covering the risks of theft and fire in addition to civil liability, can also be considered.
4. Passenger insurance
The law requires that VTC drivers have insurance to cover bodily injuries suffered by passengers in the event of an accident. This coverage is often included in professional liability insurance, but it is important to check that your insurance contract clearly specifies this guarantee. Passenger insurance guarantees that medical expenses, compensation for temporary or permanent disability, and compensation for moral damages are covered in the event of an accident.
5. Assistance and breakdown insurance
Assistance and breakdown insurance, although not mandatory, is highly recommended for VTC drivers. It offers valuable assistance in the event of a breakdown or accident, including towing your vehicle, providing a replacement vehicle, and assistance in the event of lost keys or a flat tire. Good assistance and breakdown coverage allows you to minimize interruptions to your business and continue working in all circumstances.
6. Insurance against natural and technological disasters
In France, all car insurance policies include mandatory coverage against natural and technological disasters. This coverage is triggered following an interministerial decree recognizing the state of natural or technological disaster and covers damage caused by events such as floods, earthquakes, or industrial accidents.
7. Obligations regarding proof of insurance
As a VTC driver, you must be able to present proof of your valid insurance at any time. These documents include:
- Insurance certificate : Provided by your insurer, it proves that you are covered for mandatory risks.
- The insurance sticker : To be affixed to the windshield of your vehicle, it indicates the validity period of your insurance.
- The insurance contract : Must be kept in your vehicle so that it can be presented in the event of a road check.
8. Penalties for non-compliance with insurance obligations
Failure to comply with insurance obligations can result in severe penalties for VTC drivers, including:
- Fines : Driving without insurance can result in a fixed fine of €500, which can increase to €3,750 if you appear in court.
- Suspension or withdrawal of license : The judge can order a suspension or withdrawal of the driving license.
- Vehicle confiscation : The vehicle may be confiscated by the authorities.
- Prohibition on exercising : In the event of a serious breach, the driver may be prohibited from exercising his professional activity.
Conclusion
Complying with legal insurance requirements is essential for any VTC driver in France. By taking out the required insurance, you protect your passengers, other road users, and yourself against the financial consequences of accidents and incidents.
At KT Courtage, we specialize in insurance for VTC driver insurance brokers and we help you find the solutions best suited to your clients' needs. Do not hesitate to contact us to find out more and enter into collaboration.