The Association of British Insurers and the British Insurance Brokers’ Association have issued a joint statement detailing the industry’s bid to support drivers in Northern Ireland who are struggling to secure MOT appointments due to a lack of capacity in the testing market.

The professional bodies say they are engaging with insurers, brokers and the Driver and Vehicle Agency to ensure Northern Irish drivers who are having difficulties getting their vehicle tested in a timely fashion are still able to secure motor insurance.

A joint statement says: “Where motorists in Northern Ireland are eligible for, or have been issued with, an MOT Temporary Exemption Certificate, or have a confirmed MOT appointment booking that falls after the expiry of their existing certificate, they should not be prejudiced solely due to the absence of a current MOT certificate when arranging or maintaining motor insurance cover. This applies whether a customer is renewing with their existing provider or seeking cover through a different insurer or broker.”

The ABI’s motor committee, with BIBA support, has agreed this approach although the two professional bodies say decisions on underwriting and policy terms remain a matter for individual insurers.

The statement urged motorists facing a potential issue to engage with their broker and insurer and reminded them of their legal obligation to keep vehicles in a roadworthy condition.