Originally Posted by richm
i had a lot of correspondence with Dominion on this when I went - in the end they concluded along with the underwriters, that the local authorities class it as a public toll road and as such they are obliged to provide cover.. notwithstanding the standard wording regarding "racing" "time trials" etc that applies wherever you are - so leave the stopwatch out of the car
. German autobahn is little difference really, go as fast as you like pressed against the bumper of the car in front.... that's how it seems to work.
But i guess if they specifically exclude the 'Ring in their wording, then you accept that as part of the condition of taking their insurance? I wouldn't fancy fighting about it after the event
I would agree with this assessment. I have spoken with a friend on this matter who works for Halifax Insurance in claims, and deals with claims all the time, and his understanding is this:
1. If you are racing, then you have to be competing against another car or in an event.
2. If you are time trialing then you have to be timing yourself around a given track/ road.
So first - If you are not actively competing with another car, and not timeing yourself around the ring, then you are not 'racing' or 'time trialling'. As such, no exclusions that SPECIFICALLY refer to these things can be applied by an insurance company.
I would also add that if you read the rules of the Nurgburgring, you will clearly see that both racing and time trials are outlawed!
Not off the hook quite yet. Clearly, if your insurance policy refers to de-restricted toll roads, then you will probably find that the Nurburgring is de-facto excluded.
Also, if it makes it to court, the Insurance company will place the following tests on it before agreeing to pay-out:
1. You do not need to disclose material facts that would have a positive effect on the policy (eg that you have an advanced licence)
2. You do not need to disclose facts that an insurance underwriter would reasonably be expected to know in the course of his job.
So - to summarise, if your policy specifically excludes it either by way of referral to the name of the road, or indirectly by referal to unrestricted toll roads, then you are probably not covered.
If it only refers to the track racing, and time trials, then IMHO they will not be able to void your insurance (unless you are silly enough to have a stopwatch in the car!)
With all of the above said, if you have satisfied yourself that you fit the above criteria, make sure that there is nothing silly on your car or policy that will allow them to default. For example, ensure that they are fully up to date on any modifications, and any speeding etc. convictions.
Just to stress, this is my opinion only, and if you want to be sure, ask your insurance company!