Insurer warns taxi drivers' cover may not apply if items left on display after spate of taxi break-ins
- Perry Richardson
- Oct 14
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 15
Taxi insurance specialist The Taxi Insurer has urged drivers to check the terms of their cover in the event of vehicle break-ins following a series of thefts from cabs in Middlesbrough.
David Sweeney, head of taxi broking at The Taxi Insurer, clarified that while most policies include a limited amount of personal effects cover, it often comes with strict conditions.
His comments follow several reports of taxis being broken into overnight in Middlesbrough between Sunday 5 and Monday 6 October, which shows how vulnerable taxis are as a target for a thief.
Sweeney said: “Most taxi insurance policies will include a small level of personal effects cover for items stolen from a vehicle, but this is usually a maximum of £100. The policy terms and conditions will also state that the personal effects are not covered if left on display, or if the vehicle is left unattended or unlocked.”
The insurer warned that leaving items such as cash, phones, or bags visible in a vehicle could invalidate any potential claim under the policy’s limited personal effects section. In many cases, thefts of this nature result in no financial compensation from the insurer if these exclusions apply.
Sweeney added: “My advice to any driver in the taxi trade is to remove everything from the vehicle when not in use. Although a break-in will cause them some level of financial loss, the greater concern is the loss of income suffered while the vehicle is out of use due to the necessary repairs, such as door locks being repaired and broken glass replaced.”
The comment highlights a broader risk to drivers’ livelihoods beyond the value of any items stolen. Repair time for damaged vehicles can vary and may prevent a driver from working until the vehicle is roadworthy again.
Drivers should look to take preventative steps and review the details of their insurance policies.
