The Minibus Club

Care Homes. What you need to know about minibuses.

2012-01-10T06:56:00.000-08:00

Are you a care home that owns or operates a minibus? If you are then you will know that obtaining the right type of minibus insurance is an important part of this process. Selecting a minibus insurance policy that properly covers you can be more complex especially if you are to carry passengers in connection with your business. For this reason you may find it helpful to speak to a minibus insurance specialist such as the Minibus Club.

Did you know that in some situations you may need a Public Service Vehicle Operators Licence (commonly called an Operators licence) to legally carry passengers in your vehicle? In the majority of cases you will be operating for “hire or reward” even where your minibus users do not pay a direct fee to use your vehicle. Where your minibus has nine to sixteen passenger seats including the driver and you are a private, commercially run care home you are likely to need an Operators Licence to drive legally. More information on this subject can be obtained from VOSA either by visiting their website or by calling them on 0300 123 9000.

If you are a charity or a not for profit body you will be able to circumvent these requirements by obtaining a Section 19 Standard Permit (which was previously known as a small bus permit) or if you operate in Northern Ireland a Section 10B permit.

It is possible to avoid the need for either of these permits completely if you operate a smaller vehicle such as a multi purpose vehicle (“MPV”) which has no more than eight passenger seats. These smaller vehicles fall outside the licensing remit of VOSA and as such can be operated without their involvement.

Once you have identified whether you need additional licences to operate your minibus you should also consider who is likely to drive you vehicle. The Minibus Club can (depending on your circumstances) offer you cover for as few as one driver or an unlimited number of drivers with our any driver policies. The type of driving licence your drivers will need will again be dictated by the number of seats fitted in your vehicle.

• If your vehicle is an MPV with no more than eight passenger seats your drivers will need a car (category B) driving licence.
• For care homes operating under a PSV Operators Licence your drivers will need a full, unrestricted minibus (D1) entitlement. This is obtained by taking a second driving test in a minibus.
• For care homes operating under a Section 19 or Section 10B permit your drivers will normally need a minibus (D1) entitlement. However in some situations a driver may be able to legally drive your vehicle with only a car (category B) driving licence. If you think your drivers may be able to use this exemption they should seek advice from either the DVLA or (in Northern Ireland) the DVA.

Article Resource
This article was brought to you by The Minibus Club. For more information about Minibus insurance visit www.minibusclub.co.uk

Minibus Insurance: Hire and reward licensing

2011-12-01T08:22:00.000-08:00

Buying the right type of minibus insurance for your vehicle can be a challenge, especially if you use your minibus for hire and reward. At the Minibus Club we are specialists in offering hire and reward minibus insurance.

A minibus driven for hire and reward is licensed by one of a number of organisations depending on where your business is located and how many seats your vehicle has. If your minibus has eight or less passenger seats then the vehicle is in effect a minicab and will be licensed by your local authority or if you operate in the Greater London area by Transport for London (“TfL”). Where this is the case you will also need to obtain a private hire driver’s licence or a hackney carriage licence to drive your minibus, these can be obtained either from TfL or your local authority.

If however your minibus is designed or adapted to carry nine or more passengers and does so for hire and reward it is a public service vehicle. This type of minibus requires a different licence which is called a Public Service Vehicle Operators licence and is sometimes abbreviated to PSV-O or PSV. These licences are issued by VOSA the national government agency responsible for licensing larger commercial vehicles.

VOSA define hire or reward as “When an operator or owner driver takes payment which gives a passenger a right to be carried on the vehicle regardless of whether a profit is made or not. The payment may be made by the passenger, or on the passenger’s behalf. It may be (a) a direct payment (e.g. a fare) or (b) an indirect payment (this could be an exchange for services such as a membership subscription to a club, payment for a bed in a hotel, school fees or payment for concert tickets where travel is included; the payment does not have to be money and the right to travel does not need to be taken up).”

The above definition takes in a wide range of minibus operators who may not think that they operate vehicle for hire and reward when in fact they do. Even if you do not take cash from passengers in your minibus you could still be operating a public service vehicle and if you don’t have hire and reward minibus insurance you could be driving illegally. This means that it is important to check whether your vehicle needs to be licensed by speaking to the appropriate agency. You should also explain exactly how your vehicle will be used when getting quotes for your minibus insurance.

Article Resource
This article was brought to you by The Minibus Club. For more information about Minibus insurance visit www.minibusclub.co.uk

Continuous Insurance Enforcement

2011-11-02T02:21:00.000-07:00

Driving your vehicle on a road or in a public place without minibus insurance is an offence, so it is important to ensure your vehicle is insured. In this article we would like to explain why this is important and how you can stay on the right side of the law.

It is estimated that there are two million motorists on our roads driving without insurance. These uninsured drivers cause £380 million damage each year which results in large numbers of claims to the Motor Insurers Bureau (MIB). Uninsured driving increases the cost of everybody’s insurance adding approximately £30 to each policy, including your minibus insurance.

To try and cut the number of uninsured drivers on UK roads the government recently introduced a package of measures which will crack down on those driving without insurance which means it is more important than ever that you make sure you have a valid minibus insurance policy.

This is called Continuous Insurance Enforcement (CIE) and it means that it is now a legal requirement for you to insure your minibus at all times.

It is now a legal offence to keep a minibus without insurance unless you have notified the DVLA that your vehicle is being kept off the road and have a valid Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN). You don’t have to be driving to be caught, simply owning the minibus and not having insurance can lead to you being prosecuted.

If you fail to keep your vehicle insured the DVLA will write and tell you that you must either buy a minibus insurance policy or declare your minibus off road.

If you should ever receive one of these letters it is important that you deal with it immediately. You will not receive another warning before more formal action is taken.

Some of the punishments introduced for failing to have minibus insurance include:
• Being issued a fixed penalty of £100
• Your minibus could be clamped, or even seized and disposed of.
• You can receive a court prosecution with a maximum fine of £1,000.

When you buy a minibus insurance policy your insurer will automatically send details of insurance to the proper database automatically so if your vehicle is already taxed you will not need to do anything else.

However if your vehicle is not already insured you must:
• buy a minibus insurance policy immediately;
• make a SORN, if the vehicle is not used on the road; or
• notify DVLA if you are no longer the registered keeper.

If you own a minibus it’s easy to ensure that these new rules don’t catch you out. If you still need to buy your minibus insurance don’t put it off call us at The Minibus Club where our helpful staff will be pleased to assist you.

Article Resource

If you’d like to save money on your minibus insurance look no further than The Minibus Club. Why not visit their website to receive a free online quote for minibus insurance.

Minibus Insurance and the London Low Emission Zone (LEZ)

2011-09-30T01:49:00.000-07:00

As a minibus driver you already know that having a larger vehicle is more complex than owning other types of vehicle. Even after you have bought a minibus insurance policy there are other legal issues to consider.

Did you know that from 3rd January 2012 anyone driving a diesel minibus with more than 9 seats in the borders of the Greater London Authority will have to pay a daily charge or risk being fined? This area is called the Low Emission Zone (LEZ); it operates 24 hours a day, every day of the year and was introduced to encourage diesel vehicles driving within Greater London to become cleaner.

The aim of the LEZ is to improve the health and quality of life of everyone in London by limiting the amount of particulate matter (pollution) that comes from the exhausts of diesel vehicles. Particulate matter is a type of pollution which can contribute to asthma, heart and lung disease, other respiratory illnesses and even early death.

If your minibus has more than 9 seats, was first registered before 1 January 2002 and is powered by a diesel engine it will be affected by the Low Emission Zone (LEZ). It doesn’t matter whether your minibus is used for commercial or private purposes - it will still need to meet the new standards. So if you own or drive this type of minibus, and do not want to pay the daily charge you will need to take action now to ensure you can continue to use your minibus.

The quickest way to check if your vehicle meets the current or new standards is to enter your registration plate into the Transport for London vehicle checker

If after checking with Transport for London you find that your minibus does not meet the new standards you will have to pay £100 for each day your vehicle is in the LEZ or risk being fined £500.

It is possible to avoid paying the daily charge if you take action now to modify your minibus. There are a number of options available that include fitting a particulate filter to your vehicle or having your minibus converted to run on pure gas. Transport for London offer a lot of useful information on their website on how you can modify your vehicle to meet the new requirements of the LEZ.

Don’t forget though that any modification to your vehicle can affect your minibus insurance, so please remember to notify your minibus insurance company of any changes you make to your vehicle.

The Minibus Club are working in partnership with Transport for London to bring you this information. Transport for London is the local government body responsible for most aspects of the transport system in Greater London. Its role is to implement the transport strategy and to manage transport services across London. For advice the Low Emission Zone visit http://www.tfl.gov.uk/lezlondon or call 0845 607 0009.

Article Resource

If you’d like to save money on your minibus insurance look no further than The Minibus Club. Why not visit their website to receive a free online quote for minibus insurance.

Testing times: Coping with a Minibus MOT Test

2011-08-02T02:01:00.000-07:00

Some minibus owners, especially first-timers, become more than a little worried when the need for an MOT test comes round. The following explains what will happen at test time and shows why there is no real need for concern.

A minibus MOT test is very like the equivalent test for a car. The difference lies in three aspects: timing, classification and scale. A car has to have its first Class IV test on its third birthday, and then at yearly intervals. A minibus needs a Class V when it becomes one year old and yearly thereafter. Whilst there is a special, one-off Class Va test for a minibus newly fitted with seatbelts, the only real difference is that the MOT tester must have the hardware – and the experience – to test the physically larger and heavier minibuses.

So, what is tested? Just as in a car test, the tester will look at the tyres, brakes, steering suspension and exhaust. He'll also look for damage, corrosion, wear and tear, and leaks. The latter can pose a fire risk and all these aspects must meet the relevant minimum standards.

Inside the minibus, the controls and instruments are examined, as are the seats and their mountings, and the position, operation and condition of all seat belts. The vehicle must be fitted with a working 'audible means of warning', i.e. a horn. It must also have functional windscreen wipers and washers.

Working to a strict set of rules, the MOT tester must examine the minibus's lighting system. Each and every light must be properly fixed, working and in the required condition. The minibus's registration plates and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate must be present and meet all legal requirements. Also, the driver must have an uninterrupted view of the road and the vehicle's rear view mirrors must be present and undamaged. Among the dynamic tests involved are measurements of the vehicle's exhaust emissions, service brake and parking brake efficiency. Modern MOT stations are equipped to cope with modern vehicles, so aspects including ABS and power steering are subject to testing.

Though most minibuses need a Class V test, not all of them do. The two exceptions have different venues. For a minibus with up to 12 passenger seats (not including the driver's seat) a Class IV test applies and can be carried out at any appointed garage. A Public Service Vehicle (PSV) needs a Class VI test, which must be carried out at a government testing station. Although a Permit Minibus doesn't need anything higher than a Class V test, its operator can opt for a Class VI test on a voluntary basis, provided the vehicle, when new, was given a certificate of Initial Fitness.

So as you can see, the minibus MOT test holds nothing to fear, it's just like a car test with subtle additions. The one part that doesn't change is what the Americans call 'Murphy's Law'. Just like a car, a minibus can fail its MOT test for an obvious reason, such as a blown bulb or a thinning tyre. Many garages offer pre-MOT tests to spot such things (or worse). Alternatively, you could look out for the more obvious aspects yourself, and fix them pre-test.

Article Resource

If you’d like to save money on your minibus insurance look no further than The Minibus Club. Why not visit their website to receive a free online quote for minibus insurance.

Minibus Maintenance: A Professional Approach

2011-07-04T06:53:00.000-07:00

Do you drive a minibus? If you do, you have a number of responsibilities as a result. Not least of these responsibilities is the matter of maintaining the minibus. The following details the responsibilities and to whom they apply.

The driver of a minibus is responsible for its condition when it is used on the road. The operator may also bear responsibility if he permits the minibus to be used in a defective state. However, even when the minibus has just been serviced, the driver and the operator may share the responsibility for it. Generally speaking, the relevant regulations, The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, impose absolute liability.

Should a minibus be used in a defective condition, it may break down. This can cause difficulties for the organisation using the minibus, be it a business, charity, school, college, community or private minibus service. More importantly, using a minibus in a defective state can invalidate the terms of the minibus insurance policy.

When a minibus is used by a larger organisation, it is customary for a designated person or persons to have overall responsibility for the minibus's maintenance and MOT tests. In a smaller organisation, it may be that one person, in addition to bearing this responsibility has myriad other duties. Regardless of the size of the organisation involved, it is essential that at least one person knows about the legal and practical requirements that apply to the use of a minibus, and has the ability and authority to act as required.

As the above makes clear, minibus maintenance is about both safety and reliability. Daily maintenance, or pre-trip maintenance at least, should be carried out with unfailing attention. In addition, manufacturer's services and MOT tests should be carried out as required; the passage of time and the covering of mileage dictate the intervals. Note that in some instances, these two dictates can go out of sequence. This underlines the necessity for good record keeping and it is accepted practice that documentation pertaining to inspection, servicing, MOT tests and repairs should be retained for at least 15 months.

When it comes to servicing and maintenance, there are guidelines concerning the intervals between the appropriate inspections. Traffic Area Office guidelines recommended that the interval should be…

Ten weeks where the minibus covers 12,500 miles per year.
Nine weeks where the minibus covers between 12,500 and 20,000 miles per year.
Eight weeks where the minibus covers between 20,000 and 40,000 miles per year.

Straightforward? Yes, but some Traffic Area offices recommend intervals of between six and eight weeks.

This brings us to the bottom line. The matter of responsibility for a minibus is a potential minefield, of legal and practical necessities. However, it need not be. Any organisation, or even a sole operator can keep on top of the requirements with a simple plan…

* Establish what the minibus needs, as regards inspection, servicing maintenance and repair.

* Establish when these needs will apply.

* Establish who is responsible for fulfilling these needs.

* Ensure he or she accepts responsibility; appoint a deputy if necessary.

* Ensure that the responsible person arranges all the required tasks.

* Ensure that a record is kept when these tasks are carried out.

So, we have six boxes to be ticked. When they're ticked regularly and reliably, the solution exists.

Article Resource
If you’d like to save money on your minibus insurance look no further than The Minibus Club. Why not visit their website to receive a free online quote for minibus insurance.

Bargain or Burden? How to Buy a Used Minibus

2011-04-19T02:17:00.000-07:00

When buying a secondhand minibus, you can bag yourself a bargain or burden yourself with an expensive liability. The former, happy outcome isn't difficult to achieve and these tips will help you make the right choice. Remember that the costs don't end with buying the vehicle alone. Budget for essentials such as minibus insurance.

The first tip is to know what you're looking for. You can save a lot of time, effort and money by seeing only minibuses that fulfill your needs. Most advertisements give you enough information to rule out those vehicles that aren't suitable.

Once you've made a short list of likely buys, treat them all in the same way, by examining the candidates using these guidelines.

Has the vehicle been the subject of a minibus insurance claim? Look very closely at the bodywork, for ripples, mismatches in the paint colour and poorly fitting body panels. Stray patches of paint under the wheel arches or beneath the bonnet are a dead giveaway. Rust is far less of a problem than it used to be but can be present on older or maltreated minibuses. Look out for poor rust repairs.

Has the minibus been neglected? Dip the engine oil, which should be a clear, golden-brown colour. Tarry black oil has been in the sump a long time and is a cue to look elsewhere. Other mechanical problems can be betrayed by the presence of leaks beneath the vehicle. Remember that oil, water and brake fluid can all leak: they shouldn't.

While near ground level, examine the minibus's tyres. They must have a minimum of 3mm of tread and no cracking, crazing, splits or lumps in the sidewalls. Remember that a full set of tyres is a costly investment. Look out for strange wear patterns in the treads; these can indicate suspension or steering problems.

The inside of a minibus can tell you a lot about the vehicle's history. Modern trim materials are tough so if you see wear, cuts and splits, be wary. These suggest the minibus has had a hard life and/or is a high-mileage example. If the steering wheel rim and pedal rubbers are (a) worn smooth or (b) look suspiciously new, look at the mileometer. If its figures aren't aligned properly, or if the instrument panel has scratches or damaged fastenings, there's every chance the minibus has been clocked…the mileage has been wound back.

When test driving, use a vehicle as you mean to use it – a five-minute trip around the block isn't enough. Make sure the minibus's engine is fully warmed and establish that everything works to your expectations.

If you find yourself seriously considering buying a particular minibus, carefully check its documentation. Are the claimed service records there and do they look genuine? Does the VIN number on the registration tally with that on the vehicle? Motor dealers usually offer an HPI check but if buying privately, think carefully about having one carried out. This will reveal any questionable history.

Using the above and a little care, you'll be able to make an informed purchase. Then, all you need do is inform a good minibus insurance provider of your purchase.

Article Resource

If you’d like to save money on your minibus insurance look no further than The Minibus Club. Why not visit their website to receive a free online quote for minibus insurance.

Spring Cleaning is a Kind of Minibus Insurance

2011-03-25T04:56:00.000-07:00

There's a distressingly easy way to turn an asset into a liability. All you need to do is neglect it. This is especially relevant now we are about to enjoy the benefits of Spring. Yes, the season officially begins on the 20^th March. You may have 'bomb-proof 'minibus insurance, and your minibus may seem to be perfectly fit for its allotted task. However, when we look a little more closely, you will begin to see why that asset – your minibus – might need some attention to stop it from becoming a liability.

The central issue here is that machines object to two things – idleness and neglect. If your minibus has had a restful time over the winter, it could prove sulky when you put it back into service. Equally, if it has served you frequently through the ravages of winter, it may require some tender loving care so it can continue to serve you for the rest of the year. Think of your caring for the vehicle as a form of minibus insurance, in that you will be insuring against breakdowns and/or mechanical failures.

The first step is to think of what your minibus has just been through, even if it was little used. Repeated or enduring spells of freezing or near-freezing temperatures take their toll on any machine. Your minibus's battery and electrical system will have suffered from increased loads, and its mechanical and structural parts will have paid a price.

Matters are worse still if your minibus has been in use throughout the winter. The local authority will certainly have kept the roads (or most of them) open for you. To do this, they'll have used an aggressive mix of chemicals on the roads' surfaces. This melts the ice but it also accelerates corrosion, as you might expect compounds such as Potassium Chloride, Magnesium Chloride and Calcium Chloride – or a mixture of all three – to do. These materials, and of course, ice and snow, can also give your windscreen wipers a hard time. Moreover, the minibus's electrical components will have worked much harder. Why? How often did you use your lights, rear windscreen heater, cab heater and so on?

The practical overture to this kind of minibus insurance is a really thorough wash. It makes sense to use a jet wash, if there is one available; some offer hot water, which is a bonus. Give your minibus a comprehensive external spring clean with one of these devices. It's best to pay for two washing sessions, rather than just one. Use one to clean the bodywork, wheels and windows with soap and water, as usual. Them use wash number two for your minibus's wheel arches and underside. Road salt sometimes has a sugary compound added to help it stick to tarmac, so it sticks to vehicles as well.

Similar practices apply to the inside of your minibus, particularly if it has been used through the winter months. The compounds mentioned above will have been trodden into your vehicle, to the detriment of its floor coverings and trim. Should your minibus have had little use recently, a comprehensive Hoovering may do the trick, with washing and polishing of the hard plastic trim. If the vehicle has been heavily used, it may be wise to pay for a professional valeting.

The next stage might be called a Spring service. That is another story and such treatment is best left until it's reasonably certain that the snow and ice have gone for the year.

Minibus Insurance: The Necessities

2011-02-28T06:43:00.000-08:00

To answer questions about specific minibus insurance policies, you need to speak to a specialist insurance provider. However, since forewarned and forearmed are one and the same thing, knowing the basics will allow you ask intelligent questions about the minibus insurance you are seeking.

Three Levels

Minibus insurance, like just about any other kind of vehicle insurance comes in one of three levels. Let's look at them in order.

Third Party Only cover is the minimum level of minibus insurance you can buy. It is often called 'T.P.O.' and it covers you against damaging other peoples' property or injuring somebody with your minibus.

The next level up the scale is called Third Party, Fire and Theft insurance. This, called 'T. P. F. & T.', offers the same level of protection as the above type of minibus insurance. In addition, it covers your minibus if it is stolen or is damaged as a result of fire.

Comprehensive minibus insurance, sometimes called 'Fully Comprehensive' insurance is the top of the range, as it were. Comprehensive policies generally guard against most risks; many include a consideration against legal fees.

It's usually possible to enhance your minibus insurance with additional elements tailored to your needs. A good specialist provider will be able to provide you with information about all the relevant options.

Staying Legal

UK law stipulates that the abovementioned Third Party Only insurance is the legal minimum type of minibus insurance. Should you wish to use your minibus as a taxi, your insurance needs additional elements. One of these is insurance, 'for the carriage of persons for hire or reward'. Public liability insurance will probably have to be added too, so that you comply with local government regulations. Moreover, anyone operating a taxi service using a minibus must have an indemnity limit of at least five million pounds.

Type of Insurance

There are five types of minibus insurance and it's important to know which you need. They are as follows…

MPV – This type of insurance is the one chosen by commercial concerns such as educational establishments and nursing homes. Larger firms operating more than one vehicle tend to plump for fleet insurance.

Taxi – the need for this type of insurance is obvious. 'Staying Legal' (above) described a specific, essential part of it.

Charity – this is the type of minibus insurance selected by charitable organisations. Sometimes, the price is more competitive for operators such as these.

Family – some owners choose a minibus to use as a family car. This can be more than convenient but as a minibus isn't a car, the insurance requirements can differ. A good specialist insurance provider will offer attractive family minibus insurance packages.

Fleet – often, it makes economic sense to use fleet minibus insurance when more than one vehicle is involved.

Whatever use your vehicle is put to, it is sensible to ensure you have the right level and kind of minibus insurance. This means that, apart from meeting legal requirements, you have the security offered by a good insurance policy. You therefore enjoy peace of mind, which is always worth having.

If you’d like to save money on your minibus insurance look no further than The Minibus Club. Why not visit their website to receive a free online quote for minibus insurance.

Regular Readers: Keeping Your Minibus Up To Scratch

2011-02-02T07:26:00.000-08:00

When we get down to basics, a minibus is just like any other machine. Machines don't like to lie idle and they don't appreciate neglect. At best, an untended machine will cease to function. At worst, it can damage itself or someone in or near to it. These unfortunate outcomes are reason enough to keep a regular weather eye on a minibus's health. Check it on a weekly basis and especially when a long trip is upcoming. It makes sense to start with the grubby bits, as they work the hardest and therefore need more attention. So, pop the bonnet, eyes down and look in.

The first item to use in the dark recesses of the underbonnet is the oil dipstick. Check the oil with the engine cold. The oil should be clean and at the correct level. If it is filthy, black and sticky, it's time for a change. If it's low, add some more. Consulting the handbook will reveal how much oil is needed, but don't overfill the engine. The oil should be at the correct level and the engine will thank you for this, by running reliably.

Your minibus's underbonnet has five more levels to be checked. Plain water is old hat these days, an engine's cooling system will be full of coolant. You can see if it's full by consulting the translucent header tank. If the coolant level is low, rectify this by adding the correct mixture of water and antifreeze/anticorrosive agent. Remember that you can only carry out this check on a cold engine. In fact, you can carry it out once on a hot engine. If you do, be nice to the staff in the burns unit - suddenly releasing the pressure in a hot cooling system can unleash a startlingly potent geyser.

Next up, under the bonnet of a modern minibus, are two fluids. Brake fluid works really well, provided it's there and it's wise to ensure the level is correct. Like the coolant header tank, the brake master cylinder has a see-though reservoir. You may also need to top up the clutch master cylinder, if you minibus has one, rather than a cable-operated clutch. The second fluid is that serving the power steering. This is often checked using a tiny dipstick that lives under the cap of the power steering reservoir. Finally, you may need to check the level of the electrolyte in the battery. Or you may not, as some batteries need no maintenance. The handbook will tell you which kind of battery is involved. Finish off your engine bay tasks by checking the screen wash fluid reservoir.

The remaining checks can be carried out in better-illuminated areas, starting with those other hardworking items, the tyres. Checking that these are at the right pressure is as easy as it is worthwhile. However, it pays to look closely at the rubberware. You can find out about any odd wear patterns, cuts, cracks or other tyre misdemeanors while the vehicle is stationary. Or you can find out something's awry the hard way, at speed on a dual carriageway or motorway. This choice stands as the ultimate no-brainer!

Finally, a touch of glass. Cleaning all the minibus's glassware is an obvious requirement, as is giving the lights and indicators a wipe. Moreover, with the help of an assistant, you can check that every bulb on board is in prime order.

There, that wasn't difficult, was it? Now you can carry on, feeling virtuous at having done your duty. You've protected your vehicle, yourself, your passengers and perhaps innocent bystanders. What more could be asked of anyone?

The Minibus Club is a specialist minibus insurance provider and has offered UK minibus insurance quotes since 1997. Visit our website for minibus driving advice and to receive an online quote for minibus insurance.

Going Large: How To Cope With Driving A Minibus

2010-12-29T03:29:00.000-08:00

If you’re a car driver and you find yourself piloting a minibus, you’re bound to experience mixed feelings. There’s a great deal about the hot seat that will be familiar, what with there being a steering wheel, a handbrake, a gear lever or selector and some pedals. On the other hand, the driver’s seat in a minibus will feel a long way from the ground. Equally, the unparalleled vista given by the big windows and screen will highlight the sheer bulk of the vehicle. However, fear not. The only real differences between a minibus and a car can be expressed in two words: size and weight. Allowing for these differences is easy enough and after some practise, you’ll be driving the minibus like a professional.

Where do drivers new to minibuses go wrong? They tend to forget about the scale of things as regards the minibus. Once this is accommodated on an active basis, matters become far easier.

Let’s begin with the first of the differences. Compared to a car, a minibus is wide, long and tall, and realising this by clipping an obstacle, either on the road or during parking, is a realisation too late. Moreover, it’s both embarrassing and expensive. So, start learning minibus-driving skills in a suitable place. There are plenty of large car parks to be found, at out of town shopping centres for example. Finding one and using it will allow you to become accustomed to the size of the vehicle, as well as the way it responds to its controls. It’s worth taking an assistant at this stage, as well as a few empty cardboard boxes. Why? Put it this way, would you rather nudge a cardboard box or someone’s car or a bollard when practicing parking and manoeuvering? Enough said.

Minibus tyros often forget about the height of their new charge. Car park height barriers are the obvious danger but overhanging trees and other roadside foliage won’t do the vehicle’s paint much good. It’s easy to allow for these obstructions. However, some minibus learner drivers take the trouble to add a label to the minibus’s dash or windscreen. Having a clearly visible note of the vehicle’s height, width and length near the eye line is good practice. With this, the driver can start thinking of the minibus as a mobile box, with dimensions as noted. This could save you a small fortune in minor damage claims.

The second aspect is the weight of the minibus. Power steering and brakes, good sound insulation and car-like interiors are all very well but they can seduce drivers into thinking a minibus is lighter than it is in reality. This doesn’t mean that it will fall through a hole in the road but it does mean that the minibus will be slower to accelerate, less accomplished in bends and take longer to stop than a car. Allowing for this extra weight is important: remember that with a full load of fuel and passengers, the minibus will weigh still more.

The final aspect to consider is the minibus’s ‘footprint’ on the road. No, this has nothing to do with carbon, we’re talking about the physical presence of the vehicle. Everyone knows how imposing an articulated lorry is, as compared to a car. At perhaps twice the size of car and three times its weight, a minibus can bully small cars, and especially cyclists and pedestrians. The driver must therefore be aware of what he or she is driving, and drive accordingly. This means avoiding tailgating, not making unclear signals and not making either excessive or vague inputs to the controls. In general, the driver should be aware of the responsibilities associated with driving a bigger vehicle, and drive like a professional, in keeping with these responsibilities.

The Minibus Club is a specialist minibus insurance provider and has offered UK minibus insurance quotes since 1997. Visit our website for minibus driving advice and to receive an online quote for minibus insurance.

Doing The Continental: How To Use A Minibus In Europe

2010-12-21T08:53:00.000-08:00

EU legislation has opened the roads of Europe to all manner of vehicles. Anyone can take their vehicle aboard a ferry or through the Eurotunnel with a minimum of fuss and emerge across the water, ready to drive merrily away on the ‘wrong’ side of the road. However, when taking a minibus to Europe, there are some more legal requirements to meet, as well as specific items to acquire. Let’s take a look at what’s needed.

The first requirement is essential for any vehicle with more than eight passenger seats. A minibus travelling for a profit-making organisation must carry a waybill. Which is - what? A waybill is a document that comes in one of two forms. An EU Journey Form covers travelling in EU member states. The alternative, an ASOR waybill, is for use outside the EU and must be accompanied by a set of translated versions.

What if the minibus is being run for a non profit-making organisation? It still needs a ‘control document’ but here, the waybill’s place is taken by an ‘Own Account Certificate’, a.k.a an OAC. This costs nothing and will allow a minibus to be used in the EU for up to five years. These control documents can be sourced from the International Road Freight Office (tel. 0191 2014090).

Now for - more documents. The minibus driver will also need an insurance certificate, a European accident form, the vehicle’’s registration document and his or her full passport and driving licence. In addition, unless the registered keeper of the vehicle, he or she will need a formal ‘permission to drive’ letter from the vehicle’s owner. It’s also worth taking a Green Card, which the minibus insurance provider can supply. Nowadays, an International Driving Permit, or IDP, isn’t necessary in EU and EEA countries. However, travelling beyond the member states makes one a necessity.

Minibus documents done? Not quite but the final ‘document’ is a little unusual. International journeys that begin in the UK must be monitored by a tachograph and the card on which the ’spy in the cab’ records constitutes the last of the necessary documents. It also shows that the driver is complying with EU driver’s hours regulations.

Now for the more tangible additions to the minibus itself. UK minibuses can wear their GB sticker or EU-style GB number plates with pride, and they must. A reflective warning triangle and waistcoat or jacket are legal requirements; the latter must be carried in the cab. Finally, most European countries insist on a spare set of vehicle bulbs being carried on board.

Apart from the obvious matters of making sure that the minibus has been serviced, has good tyres and is fighting fit to travel far, the above is what’s needed to venture onto foreign soil. All that remains is to add an imprecation - remember to drive on the right - and say ‘Bon Voyage’. The latter is easy to achieve and as for the former, getting used to the European Southpaw routine is much easier than it sounds!

Buyer’s Market: How To Choose Minibus Insurance

2010-12-02T06:04:00.000-08:00

You can’t drive a motor vehicle without insurance; the law says so. Commonsense says exactly the same thing as, whether you’re driving a motorcycle, car or minibus, having no insurance could leave you paying out for a lifetime in the event of a claim.

A minibus, defined as a vehicle with nine to 16 seats, may be used in any of a number of roles. It could transport fare-paying passengers as a taxi, hotel guests, employees, nursing home residents, schoolchildren, local authority staff or charity workers and their charges. Some of these uses require specialised elements in insurance cover but let’s begin with the basics.

The minimum level of minibus (or any vehicle) insurance cover is Third Party, often contracted to TPO (Third Party Only). This really is the barest minimum insurance cover and if you are considering it as the best, then the words ‘false economy’ spring to mind.

Why? Well, consider this scenario. Your minibus is running perfectly well on the road. You’ve been driving for a while so you pull in for a coffee. While drinking your hard-earned latte, you see your hard-won minibus driving away with a thief at the wheel. Should you be worrying? You should if you have TPO insurance. Your minibus is gone and unless it’s found, you won’t be buying another because you weren’t insured for theft. Could things be worse? Yes, if your minibus is damaged or destroyed by fire, there’s no fire insurance either.

Potential events like these explain the popularity of Third Party, Fire and Theft insurance for minibuses and other vehicles. Is this contracted to TPF&T? Yes, although generally, the cover usually insures your passengers too, as in TPFT&P (Third Party, Fire, Theft and Passenger). These parameters give cover against liability for the death of and/or injury to third parties, as well as against liability for damage to others’ property. The legal costs in connection with claims against your insurance policy are generally covered too.

Minibus insurance, like most things, has a top-of-the-range choice. This is Comprehensive insurance, which covers all the above and more. Damage to the minibus’s windscreen and windows, post-accident medical expenses and the replacement of personal effects lost to fire, theft or accident damage may also be covered. Any good insurance provider will have the details of what is and isn’t insured.

Insurance matters don’t end here, regardless of whether the vehicle in question is a minibus or another kind of vehicle. Tailored extensions can usually be added to your insurance policy, to suit the use to which the vehicle is being put. For example, using a minibus on the Continent may warrant extended cover, while European breakdown cover is usually offered and is well worth buying. In some countries, you may need a Green Card, which proves that your insurance complies with the laws concerning the minimum level of cover. However, this is no longer essential in EU countries, all 31 of them. In those countries where a Green Card is required, it will allow a minibus to be driven there for a maximum of 90 days. Your insurance provider may supply a green card where necessary but if not, will probably be able to arrange for one to be sent to you.

As is often the case, it’s better to have more insurance than you need than to need more insurance than you have. Ensure you have the former, with the aid of your provider - and the small print.

Stranger Than Fiction: Gaffes From Minibus (and Other) Insurance Forms

2010-11-20T05:42:00.000-08:00

After an accident happens, you have to fill in a claim form. It’s hardly rocket science, whether your’e claiming on a minibus insurance policy or not, but some people clearly have problems, as the following true quotes show.

Not a minibus, a full-sized one, caused this claimant to make a lame excuse:

‘Going to work at 7am this morning I drove out of my drive straight into a bus. The bus was 5 minutes early.’.

That’s a good starter but how about this,

‘The accident happened because I had one eye on the lorry in front, one eye on the pedestrian and the other on the car behind.’

Cleary, this person’s knowledge of basic anatomy is suspect.

A minibus can need a little more in the way of stopping distance than a car does, but that doesn’t explain this,

‘I started to slow down but the traffic was more stationary than I thought.’

Yes - and I think we can all feel for this poor pooch:

‘I pulled into a lay-by with smoke coming from under the hood. I realised the car was on fire so took my dog and smothered it with a blanket.’

Of course, minibuses have taken people to petting zoos. While we’re in the animal kingdom, we can reflect on accidents involving them:

Q: What warning was given by you? A: Horn. Q: What warning was given by the other party? A: Moo.

This creature sounds a little more intelligent than another cow but the claimant was arguably being unfair:

‘A cow wandered into my car. I was afterwards informed that the cow was half-witted.’

Then again, UK domestic animals aren’t the only culprits,

‘I started to turn and it was at this point I noticed a camel and an elephant tethered at the verge. This distraction caused me to lose concentration and hit a bollard.’

Moreover, God’s creatures needn’t be big to cause difficulties,

‘In an attempt to kill a fly, I drove into a telephone pole.’

Back in the vehicular world, is isn’t just minibuses that suffer breakdown-type problems,

‘On approach to the traffic lights the car in front suddenly broke.’

Did it really? Could be worse,

‘I was on my way to the doctor with rear end trouble when my universal joint gave way causing me to have an accident.’

Ooh Matron! Then there are those pesky vehicles,

‘An invisible car came out of nowhere, struck my car and vanished.’

Plus, the talkative ones,

‘The indirect cause of the accident was a little guy in a small car with a big mouth.’

Still, we can only pity the poor pedestrian,

‘The car in front hit the pedestrian but he got up so I hit him again.’

Or this one,

‘A pedestrian hit me and went under my car.’

Sounds like he got it the wrong way round, unlike this one,

‘The guy was all over the road. I had to swerve a number of times before I hit him.’

Driver’s hours are restricted in a minibus, but not in every vehicle,

‘I had been driving for forty years when I fell asleep at the wheel and had an accident.’

Hmm, long shift. The closing quote, however, comes from a court appearance,

Q: What is your date of birth?
A: July 15th
Q: What year?
A: Every year.

The Minibus Club is a specialist minibus insurance provider and has offered UK minibus insurance quotes since 1997. Visit our website for minibus driving advice and to receive an online quote for minibus insurance.

Short Story: Temporary Minibus Insurance May Be Convenient

2010-11-07T03:11:00.000-08:00

Minibus insurance companies often move with the times and here, time is the essence of the story. While vehicle insurance is normally taken out over a 12-month period, the relatively recent development of making temporary insurance cover available is attracting customers with particular needs.

At the time of writing, eligibility for short-term minibus insurance cover is restricted. However, its availability to educational establishments and registered charities is proving more than merely opportune. Moreover, it may be the tip of the iceberg, given that such cover may be offered in the future to other organisations.

What, then, are the benefits offered by temporary minibus insurance? The need to not have an unused vehicle insured for road risks is an obvious plus. More to the point, insuring a minibus for a specific journey makes a lot of sense, particularly as periods of cover from just one day to 12 days are being offered. Comprehensive cover, in the form of a standalone policy in an additional driver’s name, is available and up to three additional drivers may be added to the policy. Perhaps most importantly, a policy can be arranged online, with documentation produced immediately. Just as significantly, no claims bonus existing on the holder’s principle annual policy is unaffected.

At this point, a provider whose policies are underwritten by QBE Insurance is offering temporary insurance cover for a minibus. Finding it is just a few mouse clicks away, and the opportunity to arrange and purchase insurance online means that the transaction can be made in less than five minutes.

Given the above restrictions, who might make use of this exciting new facility? In the education sector, it can solve many a problem for private or public schools, nurseries, kindergartens, music schools, technical colleges and universities. The attractive part is that special, short-term minibus insurance cover can be arranged to suit a trip to a specific concert, exhibition, movie or theatre performance. The same might apply for field trips, sporting events, and virtually any occurrence when attendance involves travelling by minibus.

Similar parameters apply to the registered charities sector. A community service, community transport or Dial A Ride minibus could be insured in this way, as could those used by churches and other religious charities, housing associations or welfare organisations. The availability extends to minibuses used by, or to travel to, youth hostels. Boys clubs, Scout groups, cadet groups, youth groups and other youth organisations would benefit too.

The final point is especially relevant in the economic climate we are currently facing. Meetings and events can be cancelled with little notice, as funding permits (or more accurately, does not permit). This means that organisations, whether they are charitable or educational, must be flexible. Their being able to arrange temporary minibus insurance cover quickly, and at short notice, means they can be as flexible as circumstances demand. Add the attraction of competitive pricing for this insurance cover and you have a package which has a great deal to offer, in more than the obvious sense.

The Minibus Club is a specialist minibus insurance provider and has offered UK minibus insurance quotes since 1997. Visit our website for minibus driving advice and to receive an online quote for minibus insurance.

Buying A Used Minibus? Eight Tips For Bargain Hunters

2010-11-06T04:27:00.000-07:00

The secondhand minibus market can be as much a gold field as it is a minefield. Bargains exist to be snapped up by the wise, while there are pitfalls that can trap the unwary. Using the following tips will help you make the right choice.

1: Knowledge is power: Those who undertake the buying process with a wide-eyed, innocent approach tend to end up losing. Do your research, on the Internet, in magazines, books, newspapers or any other relevant source. Knowing more than the vendor about the minibus(es) in question puts you at an advantage.

2: Unprofessional body repairs couldn’t be easier to spot. Areas of colour that don’t quite match, ripply panels, badly-fitting doors and the like will be obvious, provided you don’t try to examine a rain-sodden minibus. Minor impact damage can be repaired successfully, by the pros but a poor repair suggests you look elsewhere.

3: What are the tyres like? Yes, they’re round black things but what about their condition. Balding treads can be a good bargaining point, on a minibus or car. Tyres with cracked sidewalls, lumps, bumps and cuts can be an accident waiting to happen. Look carefully for odd tread wear patterns. These could merely show the need for the steering to be re-tracked or they could be indicators of suspension damage.

4: Scrutinise the interior of the minibus. Should it be particularly shabby, the vehicle could have received some shabby treatment. Look especially at the steering wheel, the pedals and the speedometer. If the first two are shiny, the minibus is a high-miler. Damage to the screws around the instruments means the speedo may have been replaced or wound back. Slack windows and door fittings (especially on the driver’s side) are also high-mileage giveaways.

5: Now for a blood test, under the bonnet. The engine’s oil is its lifeblood. Pull out the dipstick and if it’s coated with thick, black, sludgy oil, the minibus’s service history is suspect. The oil, if it’s new-ish, should be clean and golden-brown.
While in the vicinity, take a look under the minibus. Should anything be leaking, the evidence will be there.

6: Ask for the minibus’s V5C, its registration certificate. Check that the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on this tallies with the one on the vehicle. You’ll find it on a chassis or body plate. Also, check the MOT certificate(s). The mileage figures should be progressive and believable.

7: Have a realistic test drive. A five-minute ’round the block’ test is no use at all. Drive for long enough for the engine and transmission to become thoroughly warm. Use the minibus as you intend to use it and don’t pussyfoot with the controls. Don’t forget to test all the electrical items, lights included.

8: You may be working for a charity but remember that dealers and vendors aren’t. You can expect to chip away at the price but insulting offers mark you as a timewaster. Remember that a dealer can offer a warranty. In a private purchase, you buy the minibus ‘as seen’. Should the engine explode on the way home, it’s your problem.

Be Prepared: Minibus Insurance For Scout Groups

2010-10-06T06:17:00.000-07:00

Half a million people can’t be wrong, right? In fact, the Scout Association has more than 500,000 members, making it the UK’s biggest mixed youth movement. Moreover, the UK membership is a microcosm of what’s happening worldwide. Internationally, over 28 million youngsters across 216 countries enjoy the benefits of scouting. All of them have one thing in common: scout trips often rely on minibuses and good minibus insurance is required.

What is good minibus insurance, particularly for scout groups? Equally, where can you get such minibus insurance? The answers to these questions are simple enough but there’s an important point to bear in mind: not all minibus insurance is necessarily ‘good’.

The first requirement is legal insurance for the scout group’s minibus(es). Third-party insurance is the minimum legal requirement and it covers damage to the persons and property of third parties; some legal costs cover is usually included. This is, however, the most restricted type of insurance cover. A good insurer will generally recommend a more highly specified level of cover; adding fire and theft insurance or choosing the full comprehensive minibus insurance are worthwhile upgrades to think about.

It is obvious to seek minibus insurance from a good minibus insurance broker, but what makes such a broker ‘good’. In today’s highly competitive marketplace, insurance quotes must be attractively priced and the level of service must be high. Comparing insurance on price alone is a common, though hardly far sighted practice. As we’re talking ‘good’, it makes sense to look in some detail at the services provided in, or with, the insurance policy being considered.

What does this mean? To explain, we can look at the provisions made by a good minibus insurance concern. They include the following.

* AA-provided accident recovery.
* UK-based administration and call centres.
* Optional breakdown and recovery assistance, including AA ‘Homestart’.
* A freephone helpline that operates 24 hours daily, 365 days a year.
* Optional uninsured loss recovery, with cover for an appointed lawyer, up to £1m legal costs, and vehicle hire costs if part of the claim is agreed.
* The ability to pay in instalments.
* Swift turnaround of documentation.

It is quite clear that, with a minibus insurance policy, or with any kind of insurance policy for that matter, there are a number of boxes to be ticked. As is usually the case, there is a wealth of information to be found in the small print. Striking the correct balance between provisions, restrictions and price is merely a matter of undertaking assiduous research.

In the final analysis, finding the right insurance broker is an excellent stepping-stone towards choosing the right minibus insurance policy. In this instance, ‘right’ refers to the policy that covers not just most of the scout group’s needs but all of them. Setting aside the time to research the insurance cover you need is worthwhile, as it becomes time well spent. Here, the Scout Group’s motto, ‘Be Prepared’, couldn’t apply more!

Time Machines: Minibus Driver Hours And Limits In The UK

2010-09-27T04:04:00.000-07:00

Some say it’s a man thing but it could also be a woman thing for all we know. The point is that some drivers, of minibuses or otherwise, feel that they can drive for intergalactic distances without turning a hair. Particularly when it comes to driving a minibus, you’re in charge of not only a large lump of moving metal, glass and plastic, you’re in charge of others’ lives. This is why minibus driving regulations exist and here, we’ll look at them as they apply in the UK. The regulations are a form of minibus insurance in their own right, and they are sensible enough.

When driving in the UK, minibus drivers are subject to UK Domestic Drivers’ Hours Rules. What’s more, you’re also subject to the Working Time Regulations 1998, S.I. 1833. Yes, this means very little to everyone else too, so an explanation of the definitions and limits that apply follows.

We can begin with what is considered a rest break. This is defined as, ‘Any period that a driver is freely able to dispose of his time, when not working during employment or carrying out other work, for a period of at least 1 hour.’. More simply, it’s an hour off duty; it’s insurance against nodding off at the wheel, or making a silly, possibly fatal, mistake.

So, for how long can you drive in a day? Domestic driver’s limits say you can drive for up to 10 hours at the wheel, actually driving. Add the required rest breaks and you can spend a total of 16 hours on duty in any one day. ‘Simples’, as the meerkat in the ads says. However, there is more, as follows.

* You may drive for a maximum of 5.5 hours followed by a rest break 30 minutes long.
* Alternatively, you may drive for 8.5 hours, including a 45-minute break, provided a further, 30-minute break follows.
* You must rest for a minimum of 10 hours between working days. This can be reduced to a rest period of 8.5 hours on up to three days in any one week.
* Between any two consecutive weeks, a minimum rest period of 24 hours must be taken.

The above is in fact perfectly simple, and all you need to know about now are the exceptions to the rules. These comprise the following.

* Armed forces drivers, and the drivers of police and fire brigade vehicles are exempted from the limits.
* Those not driving on public roads are exempted.
* Private drivers, not receiving any payment for hire or reward and not driving in connection with employment are exempt.

These vehicles are also exempt from the 16 hours per day duty limit but not from the driving limits above.

* Breakdown service vehicles (e.g. AA, RAC)
* Vehicles used for inspection, maintenance, repair, installation, fitting or cleaning.
* Vehicles used for commercial purposes, and goods vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes.
* Vehicles used by health authority staff: doctors, nurses, midwives, dentists, and vets.
* Vehicles used for film work, or radio and TV broadcasting.

Given that the above recommendations are to stop an outcome involving travelling along a roadside crash barrier like some sort of bizarre monorail car, they’re hardly Draconian. Nevertheless there is a final proviso that is equally sensible. Should an event occur that demands immediate action to preserve life or health, or to give immediate access to telecommunication or postal services, the UK Domestic Rules are relaxed.

The Minibus Club is a specialist minibus insurance provider and has offered UK minibus insurance quotes since 1997. Visit our website for minibus driving advice and to receive an online quote for minibus insurance.

Restraining Orders: Seat Belt Rules For Minibuses

2010-08-29T07:38:00.000-07:00

Hello, good evening and welcome to the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, or at least to that part of it concerned with seatbelts in minibuses. Theses regulations aren't exactly a riveting read but they're worthy enough. After all, it's been accepted for many years that proper seatbelts are a good thing to have in any vehicle. Quite apart from its being illegal to not wear seatbelts if fitted, your minibus insurance company may have something to say about their not being (a) available and (b) in use.

Seatbelt requirements vary, according to the age of the vehicle in question, the type of seats it has, how many passengers it can carry and what kind of passengers they are. For example, the means of restraining children or wheelchair users makes a difference. Conversely, the class of licence the minibus driver holds, or the type of permit used (if any) make no difference.

It makes sense, and not just for minibus insurance purposes, to observe the regulations assiduously, remembering that the state of the belts needs to be checked more often than in the compulsory yearly MOT test; seatbelts that are badly fitted and/or in poor condition are hardly likely to do what they should in an accident. Moreover, if a vehicle that should have seatbelts is used without them, the driver and the operator could be prosecuted. Remember, when looking at seatbelts or having them fitted, that more than just the belts are involved. The compatibly and state of repair of the seats, the vehicle's floor and/or wall, the belt anchorage and its reel mechanism are all highly relevant.

Two types of seatbelt are in use and recognised by minibus insurance concerns. Three point seatbelts - the lap-and-strap kind - are the items of choice. These restrain the upper body in an accident, and new minibuses will have factory fitted items of this type. Though they represent the legal minimum requirement for rear seats (but not for use with child passengers), two-point seatbelts, a.k.a. lap straps, are liable to be discontinued in the future. Apart from the fact that lap straps can't restrain a passenger's upper body during an accident, they can lead to internal injuries if used incorrectly.

Want to have seatbelts retro-fitted? Doing this is fine, provided certain points are remembered. This is especially so when belts are retro-fitted to a PSV or a vehicle operating under a Section 22 permit.

The fitting of seatbelts is a notifiable alteration. Meaning? Well, the Vehicle Inspectorate has to be told and a one-off inspection must be carried out at a Class V or VI testing station. The installation naturally has to pass the test. This requirement began in 1988 and if the vehicle has removable seats, they must be left aboard for the test. The installation of more seating means a further installation check would be required.

Your minibus insurance company takes a healthy interest in changes to minibus seats and seatbelts. If you were to alter the seats, add more of them or fit seatbelts without letting the insurance provider know, your may find out to your cost if you make a claim.

Apart from keeping your minibus insurance company updated, ensure that the seatbelt fitter is a fully qualified specialist. Some minibus manufacturers will retrofit seatbelts, using genuine parts to make a system that complies with all the regulations; expect written confirmation to prove this. Finally, it's wise to have the installation tested and witnessed by the Vehicle Certification Agency.

A Moving Story - How Many Minibus Passengers May I Carry?

2010-08-21T07:00:00.000-07:00

According to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency’s leaflet INF52(1), minibuses are, ‘Vehicles with 9 to 16 passenger seats, with or without a trailer weighing up to 750kg’. The implication of this is that a minibus can carry between 9 and 16 passengers, plus a driver. There are, however, regulations about the carriage of passengers. These show that the picture isn’t quite a simple as it seems. Regulations must be adhered to, not only for safety’s sake but also because in the event of an accident occurring, ignoring them could lead to problems with minibus insurance. So, let’s take a look at what they have to say.

Right, let us begin with the easy part, which says that a maximum of 16 people may be carried in a minibus. Are any of them allowed to be standing passengers? The short answer is ‘yes’ but there are limitations.

If the vehicle has fewer than 13 seats, has part of its gangway that’s less than 1.77 metres high or is a half-decked vehicle, no standing passengers are allowed. Should there be a certificate for the vehicle of initial fitness or conformity from on or after 1st April 1988, it will specify how many passengers may stand. If no such certificate exists, one third - or eight - of the passengers may stand; whichever number is the lesser applies. In a vehicle with fewer than 13 seats and has no part of its gangway is less than 1.77 metres high, three passengers may stand. If, given the same gangway height requirement and 14 seats, two passengers may stand - likewise, 15 seats means just one standing passenger. This may be a touch complex but it is important. Get it wrong and you’re breaking the law - and probably breaking the terms of your minibus insurance policy.

Speaking of offences, you can’t drive, cause or permit a Public Service Vehicle to be driven on the road if the number of seated passengers exceeds the number of available seats. Should there be seats designed to accept more than one adult passenger, each location is considered a single seat.

In the (probably now rare) instances where a minibus isn’t legally required to have seat belts and none are fitted, three children under 14 count as two passengers. For legal purposes, a child is considered to be under 14 until the last day of the August following their 14th birthday. Thereafter, the rules applying to adult passengers come into force.

Finally, there are two minibus use regulations, which must be adhered to for legal and minibus insurance reasons. These are included under construction standards and the first states that wheelchairs must face forward or to the rear of the vehicle. They aren’t allowed to face sideways. Just as sensibly, each seated passenger must have access to two vehicle exits at all times. Blocking access with wheelchairs, luggage and so on is totally out of order. However, it is permissible for one of the two exits to be blocked by a folding seat or wheelchair ramp or tail lift. Though the actual size of the gangway isn’t specified in law, it should be ‘reasonable’. This definition must take into account the number of passengers on board the minibus, and their levels of mobility.

Drive Safe - Avoiding Accidents In Your Minibus

2010-07-31T03:17:00.000-07:00

The emergency services call them RTAs, and road traffic accidents are all too common on the busy roads of the British Isles. However, RTAs are avoidable and not becoming a statistic can be a matter of nothing more complicated than the applying of a little common sense. This is especially important for a minibus driver with up to 16 other lives in his hands.

Us and Them

It’s unfortunate but unarguably true that there are some bad drivers out there. In fact, describing some of them as having fallen out of the idiot tree, hitting every branch on the way down, can be seen as a kindness in some cases. We see drivers (naturally not minibus drivers!) using mobile phones on the move, we see drivers who believe they have magic tyres; others believe they have brakes that can defy the laws of physics.

The essence of dealing with such people is to apply defensive driving techniques in your minibus. You may, for example, be waiting at a junction. A car approaches with its indicator flashing. Will he turn off? He might but he might equally be having a ’senior moment’ and is unaware his indicator is on. Should this be the case, pulling out is a way of finding out the hard way. Wait until you see the car slow and the front wheel start to point into the turn before pulling out.

Got a tailgater? The following driver who is getting too friendly may believe the rule about one car length per 10 mph doesn’t apply but we know different. Dabbing your minibus’s brake pedal to flash your brake lights might work but it’s safer to let the, er, driver, pass at the first opportunity. Beware also of undertakers, which is an appropriate term for those who attempt to overtake you on the left. These creatures of habit tend to lurk on multi-lane junctions. All you need to know is that they are there, which is what your minibus’s nearside mirror is for.

The other protagonist you need to consider is yourself. Minibus drivers are often proud of their safety record, often quite rightly so. That said, there is nothing in the rules that says you cannot make a mistake. Modern minibuses can be deceptively smooth and respectably sprightly. Fair enough but never forget you are in charge of a moving mass that, with passengers, weighs upwards of three and a half tonnes. It probably won’t accelerate like a car and is certainly unlikely to stop as quickly. Crosswinds and the passing of lorries will also affect it.

Inside Story

You’re frequently going to be at the helm of a minibus full of passengers, which is to be expected, giving that passengers are what minibuses do. The snag is that what passengers do can be an RTA waiting to happen.

The friendly passenger is a case in point. You needn’t be rude to the passenger who comes up front for a chat as you drive. Just remind him or her that as a minibus driver, you can’t be distracted. Better yet, make a rule that passengers must remain in their seats while the vehicle is in motion. Better still; remind the passengers that wearing their seatbelts is a legal requirement.

You may have a microphone, attached to a public address system in your minibus. It may be tempting to play the tour guide as you drive along but don’t. The best place for a microphone, when the minibus is moving, is in the off position.

Frequently Asked Questions About Minibus Driving

2010-07-24T06:58:00.000-07:00

A minibus isn’t a car and some additional definitions, rules and regulations apply to using one. These questions and answers illustrate some of them.

What Defines a Minibus?

A minibus is a vehicle with 9 to 16 seats, not including the driver’s seat. A vehicle having more than 16 passenger seats is a coach.

Must Minibus Passengers Wear Seatbelts?

Yes, unless the minibus is old enough to not have been fitted with seatbelts. Although the legal requirement varies with factors including the age of the minibus, the number of passengers carried and the type of seats fitted, it is accepted that seatbelts should be fitted and used. Generally, if a minibus has seatbelts, they must be used. In all cases, the minibus driver must wear a seatbelt.

What is the Minibus Speed Limit?

Several speed limits apply to minibuses used in the UK, depending on various factors. On urban and residential roads, the limit is 30 mph. A minibus may travel at up to 50 mph on a single carriageway A road and at 60 mph on a dual carriageway road. The motorway speed limit is 70 mph. Minibuses registered after the 1st of January 2005 must have a speed limiter that allows them to travel at a maximum of 62mph.
A minibus towing a trailer is restricted to 60 mph on motorways and isn’t allowed to use the outside lane for overtaking.

What is a Section 19 Minibus Permit?

Normally, using a minibus for hire or reward means having a PCV (Passenger Carrying Vehicle) licence. However, a Section 19 permit allows organisations like volunteer groups to make a small charge for vehicle operating costs without the need for a PCV licence. Such a permit is valid only in the UK.
Drivers of Section 19 permit minibuses may be volunteers or they may be paid. Those providing a non profit-making bus service may apply for a Section 22 permit, provided the driver is a volunteer and receive no payment.
Where a school or other educational establishment provides a free minibus service to pupils or students, a Section 19 permit isn’t usually required.

What about using a minibus in Europe?

Whether the minibus is used for hire or reward or offers a free service, the following must be carried in Europe.

A waybill or an own account certificate.

A European accident form.

A valid minibus insurance certificate.

A valid registration document.

A GB sticker or EU type number plates with a GB designation. Either of these must be prominently displayed on a permanent basis.

While regulations can vary from country to country in the EU, it is wise, and may be legally necessary to carry the following.

A full set of spare bulbs for the minibus.

A reflective safety jacket or waistcoat, which must be kept in the minibus’s cab.

A reflective warning triangle.

A fire extinguisher.

Certain EU countries require an insurance green card. A green card doesn’t provide insurance cover in its own right but proves that the minimum legal requirement for third party liability insurance is being met in the countries for which a green card is required.

Minibus Permit Parameters - What a Section 19 Permit Allows

2010-07-16T06:15:00.000-07:00

A section 19 permit for a minibus comes with rules, which must be observed. The following questions and answers illustrate some of these rules.

Who May Drive?

Permit bus drivers must

Be at least 21 years old.

Have passed a Category B (or car) driving test before the 1st of January 1997, therefore gaining automatic entitlement to D1 categorisation, which allows them to drive a minibus with 9 to 16 passenger seats that is not used for hire or reward.

Drivers who passed their test before this date may drive such a minibus of any weight, provided they hold a permit. Category D1 licence holders (non-hire or reward) can renew their licence if they can pass the compulsory medical to meet the necessary health standard.

If a minibus driver with a D1 licence fails to renew their licence at age 70 but retains their category B (or car) licence they may still drive a 9 to 16-seat minibus if they meet the following conditions. The same applies to minibus drivers who passed their car test on or after the 1st of January 1997.

Such drivers must

Have held their Category B licence for no less than two years.

Must receive no payment or benefit other than out-of-pocket expenses.

Drive minibuses of no more than 3.5 tonnes gross weight, unless they are used to carry disabled passengers. In this instance, the gross weight rises to 4.25 tonnes, including the weight of any specialised equipment for disabled passengers.

Be able to pass the medical test mentioned above if they are 70 or older.

May Drivers Receive Payment?

If they hold a full PCV licence, yes. Minibus drivers who don’t may be paid if they have a licence granted before the 1st of January 1997 and have a full Category D1 (not for hire or reward) entitlement.

May Wheelchair Users be Carried?

Yes, provided such passengers are carried safely. See the Department of Transport’s Code of Practice ‘The Safety of Passengers in Wheelchairs on Buses’, which is available from the Department’s Mobility Unit.

May a Permit Vehicle Be Used Abroad?

No, the Section 19 permit is only for UK use.

May a Permit Bus Provide a Local Bus Service?

No, one may only be used for the members of clients of the organisation to which the permit applies.

Do EC Drivers Hours and Tachograph Rules Apply?

Not in the UK, provided the minibus has fewer than 17 passenger seats. Such a minibus would normally have to meet UK domestic driver’s hours rules. However, if it is being used privately or has volunteer drivers, no rules apply.

What Charges Can Apply to Passengers?

Fares or contributions may be accepted provided they cover vehicle running costs, including depreciation and drivers’ wages. However, fares that regularly yield a greater income than the above expenditure negate the operation’s non profit-making status and are not permitted.

What About Minibus Insurance?

Like all motor vehicles used on the road, a vehicle operated under a permit must be covered by an insurance policy which insures against liabilities to third parties (which includes the passengers being carried in the vehicle). This is the minimum requirement.

The minibus insurer must be aware that payment is being received from passengers but that a Section 19 permit applies, exempting the minibus user from PSV Operator Licence requirements.

Trained Professionals - The MIDAS Touch For Minibus Drivers

2010-06-23T02:44:00.000-07:00

Most minibus drivers are justifiably proud of the their driving skills. However, training schemes exist that can not only let drivers hone and subsequently prove their minibus skills but also let them benefit from reduced insurance premiums. In practice, the majority of minibus insurance companies recognise the two training schemes concerned and substantial savings may be made from the lesser premiums offered.

The CTA (Community Transport Association) is the UK’s leading organisation concerned with community and voluntary transport. It administers two driver training schemes that the majority of insurance companies recognise.

Drivers who passed their test before the 1st of January 1997 automatically received a D1 classification, allowing them to drive a minibus. However, those who passed their test on or after this date received a Category B, or car, licence. This restricts their driving of a minibus to an extent because they have to meet the following conditions.

The minibus may not be used for hire or reward.

The driver must be 21 or over.

The driver must have held a Category B licence for over 2 years.

If over 70, the driver must meet Category D1 health standards.

The driver may not be paid for driving the minibus.

The minibus may not weigh over 3.5 tonnes, unless specialised equipment for the carrying of disabled passengers is fitted. In such an instance, the weight limit rises to 4.25 tonnes.

A trailer may not be towed.

The minibus may only be used in the UK.

The CTA’s CommunityDriver scheme provides everything a minibus driver needs to obtain a Category D1 licence, including training by locally based tutors, the use of special learning materials and the arranging of a test at an appropriate time in a location convenient to the pupil.

The second CTA scheme is called MiDAS, which is the acronym of the Minibus Driver Training Scheme. CTA-appointed training agents, who visit organisations to assess and train minibus drivers, run this nationally-recognised scheme. It is also possible for representatives of larger organisations to take the CTA’s Driver Assessor/Trainer Assessment, or DAT for short. Passing this allows a representative to assess and train drivers.

The MiDas test is a separate exercise and is particularly comprehensive. As such, it covers a number of areas including passenger and disability awareness, the use of passenger safety and access equipment, storage equipment, and drivers’ legal requirements. Minibus driving skills to an acceptable standard are tested, and attention is paid to general defensive driving, the driver’s personal safety and, of course, passenger safety. Lastly, roadside inspections and breakdown and accident procedures are examined.

The CTA’s schemes don’t just reduce insurance premiums. A MiDAS certificate is good for the image of the organisation or person possessing one, and passenger comfort and safety are improved. Last but not least, the certificate holder’s confidence increases, with a consequent reduction in stress at the wheel of a minibus.

The Minibus Club is a specialist minibus insurance provider and has offered UK minibus insurance quotes since 1997. Visit our website for minibus driving advice and to receive an online quote for minibus insurance.

Small Print: Reading a Minibus Insurance Policy Summary

2010-06-02T02:37:00.000-07:00

What is covered - and not covered - by a minibus insurance policy can be found in the small print. You should always pay attention to this when buying insurance and here, we can look at a typical minibus insurance policy summary. In this context, ‘typical’ doesn’t mean ‘representative’. Insurance policy details can differ significantly but the following represents what you can expect to see. For the sake of simplicity, we’ll call the three types of insurance cover by shortened names. So, ‘Comp’ means comprehensive cover, ‘TPFandT’ means third party, fire and theft cover, and ‘TPO’ refers to third party only cover.

Lets begin by examining what the minibus insurance cover might pay for in the event of a claim. Comp, TPFandT and TPO share coverage of the following in our example. Liability for death or injury to third parties, Liability for damage to other people’s property and legal costs incurred with the insurer’s consent in connection with a claim against the policy are all covered. The same goes for driving abroad, cover being available for most European countries. In our example, the policy booklet would furnish you with the specific details.

Comprehensive minibus insurance is the most costly choice but this is with good reason. In our example, Comp covers loss of or damage to the vehicle, plus replacement locks, accident recovery and an approved repairer network. These three elements are covered in a TPFandT policy, but only if a claim is for loss through fire or theft. A TPO policy would not cover these eventualities. However, Comp covers additions including medical expenses up to 100 pounds per person, personal effects up to 100 pounds, and replacements for a broken windscreen and/or windows.

Now for the options in our typical minibus insurance policy summary. Additional public liability cover in the course of a fare paying journey, AA-provided breakdown assistance, and European breakdown assistance are among the options on offer, as is uninsured loss recovery from the DAS. These options are available with all three types of cover.

Like any insurance policy, our minibus insurance has exclusions and limitations. The first is the ‘excess’, the amount the insured pays towards any claim. This, generally an agreed figure, can vary depending on certain circumstances in a claim. Limitations can be against loss or damage if the ignition keys have been left in the minibus, as well as loss of use, depreciation, wear and tear and so forth. Similarly, ‘inappropriate use’ is frowned upon, and further limitations can apply if the minibus was carrying high category hazardous goods or is used in a hazardous location. Loss or damage associated with acts of terrorism attract comparable limitations.

As is clearly evident, our minibus insurance policy summary is just this, a precis of the insurance cover. The full story lies in the full policy document, which will give you all the details you need. Here, the insurance policy summary has done its work, in describing the key points. However, studying the full extent of the insurance and the limitations that apply to it is good advice. Armed with the information in its fullest form, you can buy minibus insurance with confidence.

The Minibus Club is a specialist minibus insurance provider and has offered UK minibus insurance quotes since 1997. Visit our website for minibus driving advice and to receive an online quote for minibus insurance.

Enabling Mobility: Minibus Conversions For The Disabled

2010-05-27T07:14:00.000-07:00

What’s small and highly specialised? The industry that offers conversions of standard minibuses for use by disabled passengers. An increasingly caring society has worked hard to cater for the disabled, wheelchair users included, and this is reflected in the output of this small but dedicated band of expert companies.

Before examining the surprisingly comprehensive range of equipment on offer, let’s look at the recipient - the archetypal minibus. The products of Citroen, Fiat, Ford, Iveco, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Peugeot, Vauxhall and Volkswagen have one facet in common. Whether they have a short or long wheelbase, a high top or a sliding side door, they are all flat-floored vans. More to the point, each can be bought as a minibus. With a few additions to the specification, each can become a disabled minibus.

The first aspect that warrants consideration is arguably the most important. Access is a hugely important factor for the disabled user, whether wheelchair-bound or not. For the ambulant disabled person, the simplest addition to a standard minibus could be a foot-operated slide-out step, fitted below the minibus’s side door. The wheelchair user obviously needs more and this is where the range of options begins to broaden.

The simplest addition is a folding ramp, to be used at the rear of the minibus. Such items are usually light in weight for easy handling and lock positively onto anchor points on the vehicle’s floor. Some ramp mechanisms are two-piece and refinements exist to make using them as easy as possible. For example, a load lamp may be specified to illuminate the ramp for loading and unloading a wheelchair-bound passenger after dark. It’s also possible to use a special winch to ease the loading/unloading process. Such a winch is usually electrically powered, by the minibus’s battery.

In some instances, particularly in a long-wheelbase minibus, the seating layout and floor space specification permits the addition of an hydraulic tail lift. Often, a base minibus with air suspension is used. This allows the vehicle itself to be lowered, making access easier still. Tail lift options can include an under floor lifting mechanism, or a sophisticated ‘Power Stow and Deploy’.

The internal layout of a disabled minibus may work on what we might call a mix and match system. Such a conversion uses a proven floor system, such as ‘Innotrax®’. This allows the minibus’s seats to be quickly and easily fixed or demounted. So, for example, a minibus might be set up to carry 15 passengers and five wheelchairs.

One further aspect of a disabled minibus is of immense importance. Being wheeled, a wheelchair must obviously be restrained when the minibus is in motion. This is also catered for by the floor system, which boasts four-point wheelchair securement. An integrated three-point inertia reel seat belt, attached to the same strong points that secure the wheelchair, is used to keep the wheelchair user safe in his or her chair.

As the above begins to show, a disabled minibus can have a specification ranging from the simple, to the highly complicated. The extent of modification specifically for disabled use is dependent on requirements. However, the materials and practices used may be tailored to those requirements, in virtually any popular base minibus.

Sweet Charity: Minibus Insurance For Charities

2010-05-25T02:53:00.000-07:00

Minibuses give flexibility and versatility that public transport providers simply cannot offer. This makes them particularly valuable for use by charitable organisations. Such non profit-making organisations can benefit from the cost savings associated with specialist minibus insurance. Here are the details charities need to know.

The three specific types of minibus insurance have their pros and cons. Third Party Only insurance is the minimum legal requirement. Such insurance covers liability for injury to, or the death of third parties, along with liability for damage to other people’s property, and legal costs related to claims against the policy.

Third Party, Fire and Theft cover comes next in the minibus insurance hierarchy. The benefits of this are fairly obvious. Should the minibus be stolen or be fire damaged, insurance for these eventualities is included.

The third and final type of minibus insurance is Comprehensive cover. This, though it’s the most expensive, is the most popular with charities that use a minibus. Comprehensive minibus insurance may provide replacements for personal effects lost in an accident or through theft. Post-accident medical expenses may be met, and cover against damage to the minibus’s windscreen and windows may be offered. A specialist minibus insurance broker will be able to detail what is covered and can offer a bespoke policy that caters for a customer’s needs.

Often, charity minibus insurance policies carry additional benefits. These can include a provision to pay by instalments rather than in a single lump sum. Post-accident and/or breakdown recovery may be included, as might roadside breakdown assistance, from a known provider capable of dealing with a minibus. A 24-hour helpline, operating from a year-round UK centre that can be called at no charge is a desirable bonus. Also, the option of uninsured loss recovery, including cover for a lawyer, legal costs and vehicle hire costs, is well worth seeking. Again, a specialised minibus insurance provider will be happy to advise you.

Having learned what to expect from a charity minibus insurance provider, it is necessary for you to understand what the provider will expect from you. Apart from meeting the expected driving licence requirements for using a minibus, the charity will need to provide one of two permits. In order to prove to the provider that the minibus to be insured is in fact to be put to charitable and non profit-making use, the charity will have to have a Section 19 or Section 22 permit. Charities whose activities are seen to benefit a community may apply for a Section 19 permit. Under this, minibus drivers may be volunteers or may receive payment, and a small charge for vehicle operating costs may be levied by the charity.

Remaining with charity minibus insurance requirements, a minibus that is used to offer a non profit-making bus service needs a Section 22 permit. For this kind of permit, the driver may not be paid for his or her services; he or she must be a volunteer. Lastly, a minibus operator running a service on a profit-making basis must acquire a PCV/PSV licence.

As can be seen, minibus insurance specific to a charity is slightly different from other kinds of insurance. However, with the aid of a specialised broker, finding such insurance and meeting the permit requirements are easily done.

The Minibus Club is a specialist minibus insurance provider and has offered UK minibus insurance quotes since 1997. Visit our website for minibus driving advice and to receive an online quote for minibus insurance.

Defensive Driving: How To Avoid Minibus Insurance Claims

2010-05-24T04:33:00.000-07:00

Regardless of whether you’re driving a minibus, a car, or even a motorbike, the roads in Britain and on the Continent can be dangerous. To say so isn’t scaremongering because it is a fact that accidents happen. The following hints and tips will not only help you stay safe and have successful outings, they will also avoid your having to make unnecessary claims on your minibus insurance.

There are legal requirements associated with driving, from being sober to driving with due care and attention. There are also non-legal requirements that are at least as important, and not all apply solely to the use of a minibus. We’ve all seen motorway signs saying ‘Tiredness kills, take a break’. These are displayed for a reason. You may, as a minibus driver, feel that your ability to drive for long periods is faultless. These can be famous last words, especially as tiredness is insidious, it can creep up on you. If even remotely drowsy, let alone sleepy, do as the signs say and take a break. There’s no shame in admitting you could do with a rest and there’s nothing heroic about ploughing into the back of an articulated lorry or finding yourself clattering along a crash barrier at 60 miles per hour. Pull up at a motorway services, have some coffee and a snooze if necessary. This is obviously doubly important if you’ve a full complement of passengers. Bear in mind that you should always plan rest breaks into your journey, for your sake as well as that of your passengers.

Minibuses have their own requirements, over and above those of cars. Your minibus may have car-like attributes, including power-assisted steering and brakes, comfortable seats and a great heater, if not air conditioning. It is, however, bigger and heavier than a car. Consequently, it can’t accelerate as fast as a car, negotiate corners as proficiently and stop as quickly as a car can. You must allow for these factors, and not only in the more obvious senses. For example, a minibus has a much bigger side profile than a car. In side winds, and in the slipstream of a big lorry, it will be affected much more profoundly. This can be allowed for but it should never be forgotten.

Similar parameters apply to manoeuvering a minibus. Your windscreen, side glass, rear glass and mirrors may be spotless but you still have to allow for the size of the vehicle you’re handling. This is especially so when pedestrians are about. You may be unfortunate enough to touch a roadside obstacle, or even another vehicle, when manoeuvering. This will dent your pride rather more than it dents your minibus. Should you be unlucky enough to touch a pedestrian, you could be faced with something far more serious. A minibus fitted with reversing sensors and even a reversing warning is desirable. It’s more desirable still to have someone keeping a weather eye on what’s to the rear. In any case, do not reverse if there’s any doubt at all. Be safe before it’s too late, rather than sorry after the event.

These simple tips will not only save lives, not to mention preserving your dignity, they can also save a claim on your minibus insurance. Remember that, following an accident or incident like those mentioned here, there’s only one way the insurance premium can go. Here’s a clue: it isn’t down!

Five Pre-Flight Checks: Keep Your Minibus Safe

2010-04-13T06:25:00.000-07:00

We all know minibuses can’t fly but if you drive a minibus with passengers aboard, you have as much responsibility for your passengers’ safety as any airline pilot. In some respects you have more; an airline pilot can’t knock anyone down at a road junction because his brakes don’t work! Getting into the habit of making the five following checks pre-journey is easy and should be your standard practice.

1: Windscreen
Is it clean? Is it chipped? Is it cracked? You can’t see properly through a grimy windscreen in any conditions. A chipped or cracked minibus windscreen may be repairable but not after a speed bump or pothole has caused it to shatter. Keep it in tip-top condition and remember to check there’s enough washer fluid and that the wiper blades are perfect.

2: Mirrors
In some minibuses, the mirrors represent all of your rear vision. They can’t help if they’re dirty, chipped, cracked or maladjusted. Don’t forget that the mirrors can be bumped out of alignment when your minibus is parked. Don’t move a millimetre until your mirrors are 100 percent in every respect.

3: Lights
A light that isn’t working isn’t a light at all. Similarly, dirty lighting is inefficient. It only takes a few minutes to clean and check them. Also, carry spares bulbs (obligatory in most Continental countries) and fuses. Minibus lights operate in the same way as car lights and they need just as much attention.

4: Tyres
Squeezing the last few miles out of your tyre’s treads may be praiseworthy but your minibus insurance company may disagree about this. You need a minimum of 1.6mm of tread around the entire circumference of the tyres to be legal. Tread wear indicators are moulded in at the 2mm level and if these are showing level with the tread, you’re tyres are beyond a safe limit – 3mm all round is the practicable minimum tread level for a minibus.
Examine the tyres for splits, bulges, tread damage and sidewall cracking. Any and all of these can put you at risk of a blowout. Make sure the tyres at the minibus maker’s recommended pressure and don’t forget the spare - it may be needed in a hurry and if it isn’t checked, you’ll be in trouble.

5: Fuel
A minibus that’s run out of fuel obviously won’t be going anywhere, at least until the breakdown service arrives. Roadside fuel starvation is an embarrassing way of admitting that you were too lazy/preoccupied/forgetful (delete as applicable) to put in enough fuel for the entire journey.

Remember that servicing, on a yearly basis at least, is also your responsibility. Have servicing carried out by a reputable garage and don’t forget safety checks on the suspension, brakes and steering of your minibus. If you fail to look after your minibus, you are failing to look after your passengers. If the vehicle is unroadworthy, it is your fault and your minibus insurance company would be within its rights to deny any claim arising in consequence.

Seven Lame Claims: The Kind Minibus Insurance Companies Can’t Laugh Off

2010-04-06T02:29:00.000-07:00

Minibus insurance, like any other vehicle insurance, generally isn’t amusing. However, some insurance claims can’t help but raise a titter, like these did.

1: Weather Eye

This winter’s appalling weather prompted a driver to call a taxi (it may have been a minibus), for safety’s sake. When the taxi arrived, it skidded into his car. Oops!

2: A Sense of Duty

How about the car that made a citizen’s arrest? Thieves reckoned a Land Rover was the ideal car to steal for ram raiding. They aimed their ill-gotten transport at the doors of a jeweller’s shop. The trusty Land Rover hit the roller shutter door, climbed it, and fell on its tail. As the vehicle had wedged itself tightly in the doorway, the thieves couldn’t open the doors. When the police arrived in their marked minibus, they freed them - and then arrested them.

3: Woolly Jumper

A driver and his passenger got a shock when driving home from the pub. Something hit their car’s roof with a huge bang, denting it enough to hit the occupant’s heads. The car was braking hard and something slid down off the roof, landed on the bonnet, jumped off and ran away. It was a sheep, which had taken a leap of faith from a transporter lorry that had been involved in a collision with a minibus.

4: Dogged Driving

One man and his dog went to - the local shop for a paper. The man came back, newspaper in hand, to find the minibus - and the dog - were nowhere in sight. When asked, a passer-by said he’d just seen the minibus, being driven by a large dog. Which proves that if you leave a dog untended in a vehicle, it’s lead can become entangled with the handbrake - and release it. Fortunately, a parked car stopped the minibus before its canine commander had gone too far.

5: Nutkin Ventured

What is more enjoyable than a nice drive in an open car, through the sunlit woods? Usually nothing is but here, the car’s lady driver got a surprise visit. A careless squirrel fell out of a tree into her lap. The startled driver was so taken aback by this and the squirrel’s frantic escape attempts that she drove into a tree. A breakdown patrol minibus took the crestfallen lady home; the squirrel was last seen scrambling rapidly up the tree.

6: Rising Damp

The nice part of camper van ownership is that you can pull up and take a snooze in the back whenever you like. One Volkswagen Minibus owner did just this but made the mistake of parking on a beach. He woke to the sound of someone’s hammering on the window; he survived but the rising tide claimed his pride and joy. VW went down - happily without all hands.

7: One into Two Won’t Go

Two non minibus-driving motorists wanted the same parking space and they both went for it at once. In doing this, they got themselves firmly wedged against neighbouring parked cars and a minibus. Neither motorist could move and neither could open a door, they were stuck fast. The assembled bystanders found it hugely entertaining!

The Risk Business: Keeping Minibus Insurance Costs Down

2010-03-09T07:40:00.000-08:00

In insuring a minibus, or any other vehicle for that matter, you are balancing the risk of accidental damage, theft or vandalism against the cost of guarding against it. Insurance is a legal necessity and it would be foolish to avoid having it in any case. However, there are ways to reduce both the initial cost and the risks it is protecting against. Here are nine ways to keep costs down.

1. By using a special minibus insurance provider
Most providers can offer insurance cover for virtually any vehicle. However, a company that specialises in minibus insurance will be able to provide the right kind of cover at an attractive price. This is a direct consequence of experience and it can extend to the matters of recovering a vehicle or making a claim.

2. By not paying for unnecessary cover
Under normal circumstances, you wouldn’t buy something you don’t need so why pay more for minibus insurance cover that is over specified. For example, there is little point in paying for comprehensive cover on a minibus worth less than, say, £2000. The less costly third party fire and theft insurance would be more than adequate.

3. Don’t insure too many drivers
How often do you need an extra driver? Minibus use can dictate that another driver is needed for particular trips but it is pointless to insure him or her all year long. Organising temporary insurance cover with your minibus insurance provider is simple and costs considerably less.
Though drivers must be at least 21 to legally drive a minibus, someone of this age remains a young driver. As a result minibus insurance for him or her will be more expensive.

4. By not making small claims
Every insurance policy has an excess. Should the repair costs after a minor accident be at or only slightly above the excess figure, it makes sense for the costs to be met without making a claim on your minibus insurance. This will protect your no claims bonus and keep the insurance premium down.

5. By taking a recognised driving course
Minibus drivers who have successfully completed a recognised driving course may be entitled to a significant discount on their insurance premium. The Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme (MIDAS) is such a course.

6. By driving carefully
This may seem to be obvious advice but keeping your minibus in prime condition and driving it safely can reap benefits. This approach reduces the risk of accidents and helps build up your no claims bonus.

7. By not parking by the roadside at night.
A minibus parked in a garage or on a private drive at night is much less likely to be damaged by vandals or by passing vehicles. If you must park a minibus at the roadside overnight, try to put it in a secure, well lit area.

8. By not driving distracted
It only takes a moment’s inattention at the wheel to invite an accident. When driving your minibus, never attempt to use your mobile phone or communicate with your passengers via an on-board microphone. Discourage your passengers from talking to you while you’re driving. If the need to adjust a satnav or consult a map arises, find somewhere safe to stop first.

9. By keeping your speed down
Speeding in a minibus (or any other vehicle) can be costly in more than the obvious way. Points on a driver’s licence adversely affect his or her insurance premium, while over ambitious progress increases fuel consumption and vehicle wear.

The Minibus Club is a specialist minibus insurance provider and has offered UK minibus insurance quotes since 1997. Visit our website for minibus driving advice and to receive an online quote for minibus insurance.

Van For All Reasons: Want To Use A Minibus As A Family Car? Here’s How

2010-02-26T06:34:00.000-08:00

Some individuals, especially those with a large family, want to use a minibus as a family car. Is this possible? Yes, but there are a number of legal requirements to be met and practicalities to consider.

The simple definition of a minibus is that it has between nine and 16 passenger seats. A vehicle with a greater seating capacity constitutes a coach while an MPV or a people carrier with seven or eight seats is not a minibus.

Who can drive a minibus? Normally, a driver whose licence was issued after 1st January 1997 needs a Category D1 classification to drive a minibus. However, the holder of a full Category B, or car licence may drive a minibus provided -

1. It is used as a family vehicle only and not commercially.
2. The driver is over 21 and has held a category B licence for more than two years.
3. A driver over 70 meets D1 classification health standards.
4. The minibus doesn’t weigh over 3.5 tonnes, or over 4.25 tonnes if it has special equipment for disabled passengers.
5. The minibus isn’t towing a trailer.
6. It is only driven in the UK.

There are some practical necessities for driving a minibus in the UK. For example, it obviously makes sense to carry a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit at all times. Equally, not using the vehicle’s horn or reversing beepers between 11:30 pm and 7:00 am is a commonsense approach, as is using the vehicle’s side lights when it’s parked by the roadside at night. There are four UK speed limits for minibuses, the first being 30 mph in residential and urban areas. A 50 mph limit applies on single carriageway A roads; this rises to 60 mph on dual carriageway roads. The motorway speed limit for a minibus is 70 mph.

Minibus insurance is required by law in the UK, as it is for any vehicle. There are three levels of insurance, about which any good minibus insurance provider will advise you in detail. However, in simple terms, third-party insurance is the minimum legal requirement. This covers damage to third parties’ property and their persons; some legal costs cover is included. Third party, fire and theft insurance, as its name implies, covers the above and loss or damage through fire or theft. Comprehensive insurance offers the highest level of cover. Damage to the vehicle, regardless of whether it was the policyholder’s fault is covered, subject to the payment of an agreed excess value. Some policies offer new for old vehicle replacement, insurance against breakage of glass, replacement locks, medical expenses and the loss of personal effects. A specialised minibus insurance provider will be able to offer insurance cover that is tailored to your needs, at a competitive price.

What happens when you wish to take your extended family to Europe in your family minibus? Here is where matters become a little more complex though meeting the assorted requirements is by no means impossible. You may need a waybill or own account certificate, even if the vehicle isn’t being used for hire or reward. In your minibus, you should keep a minibus insurance certificate, a European accident form and your Vehicle Registration Document. In Europe, you will also need to display a GB sticker or have EU style numberplates. You must also carry a warning triangle and a reflective jacket must be in the cab. A tachograph may also be required on international journeys that start in the UK; this is because drivers must comply with EU drivers’ hours regulations.

Will Travel? Some Conditions Will Stop A Minibus

2010-02-10T02:46:00.000-08:00

‘Not rain, nor sleet, nor snow nor hail will keep this messenger from his appointed rounds.’ This motto served the Pony Express over its 19-month life on its 1,966-mile route from April 1860. To a great extent, none of these circumstances, in moderation at least, will keep a minibus from reaching its destination. However, there are conditions that can and will stop a minibus. In practical terms, it makes sense to know the difference between what is comfortably possible and what is dangerously optimistic. Applying this knowledge astutely makes even more sense. Here are some tips for fulfilling your appointed rounds.

1. Plan your minibus journey carefully. Even when a tachograph is neither legally required nor necessary, you, your minibus and your passengers have limits. How far can you, it or they travel in a given time? There’s a distinction between being hopeful and being overconfident.

2. Have your minibus serviced. Regular, expert servicing can make the difference between arriving unfazed and a trip home on a low loader. This is especially important when a long trip is planned. Don’t be tempted to skimp or make do.

3. Check your tyres. They need to be at the right pressure and in good shape. Tyres work hard and if they aren’t fit for the task, they’ll probably fail.

4. Keep the fuel level up. This is especially important when travelling late at night, overnight and/or on the Continent. Diesel fuel is readily available at reasonable hours but a minibus is a heavy vehicle to push! You could always carry a can of fuel as a backup but take care if your minibus is petrol powered.

5. Join a recovery service. Membership of the AA, RAC or Green Flag is good insurance if all else fails. Make sure that the concern involved knows you have a minibus, or they may not be able to get you home in dire circumstances.

6. Take appropriate items along on every trip. A torch, mobile phone, reflective jacket, warning triangle and your driving licence can keep you on the road. If driving in poor, winter conditions, take appropriate clothing, footwear, some chocolate and a flask full of tea or coffee.

7. Remember that in the worst conditions, your minibus can be stopped in its tracks. The vehicle’s sheer weight may provide a little more grip than a car enjoys. However, deep snow and icy roads can strand you all too easily. Diesel engines, especially those with an intercooler usually have a low-mounted air intake. Deep floodwater can be inhaled by the engine, which will immediately be wrecked.

8. Make sure you have the appropriate minibus insurance, of the kind that applies to your use of the vehicle. Having the wrong insurance may not stop you physically but can have serious repercussions, especially following an accident or even a police spot check.

9. Keep this significant point in mind. Whether providing a service for a fee or on a voluntary basis, it is you as the driver, who are responsible for your passengers. Make sure you know about any special needs they may have and keep safety as your watchword at all times.

The Minibus Club is a specialist minibus insurance provider and has offered UK minibus insurance quotes since 1997. Visit our website for minibus driving advice and to receive an online quote for minibus insurance.

Pre-Loved Pointers: Buying a Used Minibus

2010-01-25T07:08:00.000-08:00

Buying a used minibus can make a lot of sense. Buying unwisely can cause a great deal of hassle but here are some tips to help you make an ideal purchase.

Buying a used minibus is much like buying any used vehicle and the following tips apply in every instance.

1. In buying from a dealer, you pay more but you benefit from warranty protection, Dealers must also provide an HPI check; if buying privately, arrange your own check. This will reveal any previous insurance claims, outstanding hire purchase or the vehicle’s having been stolen or written off.

2. A minibus with a service history is always a better buy. Look for a dealer’s service record, or one from a reputable servicing firm at least.

3. If the vehicle has had MOT tests, examine its previous certificates and check that the mileages tally.

4. Examine the minibus’s bodywork carefully. Impact damage will be evident especially at the vehicle’s extremities. Look for ill-fitting panels, welded repairs and mismatched areas of paint.

5. Scrutinise the tyres. Strange wear patterns suggest suspension damage, while cracked sidewalls show that the tyres are ageing. Look for lumps and/or cuts in the tyre carcasses and remember that three millimetres of tread or less spells imminent replacement.

6. Look under the bonnet. Some dirt is acceptable but if the engine has rust, coolant stains and thick black oil in the sump, the service record is probably an on-paper fantasy.

7. Find the minibus’s VIN plate and check that the number tallies with that in the documentation.

8. Look carefully at the driver’s seat and controls. Shiny pedals, wear on the steering wheel, a worn driver’s seat and sloppy door furniture suggests that the mileage is astronomically high. Be rightly suspicious if the seat, carpet, pedal rubbers and speedometer appear unduly immaculate!

9. Remember to budget for insurance costs, running costs and the cost of any necessary repairs.

10. Check that older models comply with current safety and seatbelt regulations.

11. If a wheelchair lift is fitted, ensure it meets BS1609, has a safe working load of 300kg and meets Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (1998).

12. Never buy a minibus without a rigorous test drive. This should be over a distance that lets the engine and transmission warm thoroughly. Include traffic driving and a spell on a motorway, or at least on a dual carriageway. Ensure that the minibus performs as expected, with no untoward noises or emissions (check for the latter in the rear view mirror, especially when accelerating). Remember to try the brakes, clutch, gearbox and steering in a realistic manner.

Above all, be aware of this. You may be examining a minibus made by Ford, Fiat, Mercedes Benz, LDV or whoever. The secret of buying a used minibus, especially from a private seller (against whom you have very little comeback) is quite simple. Remember that you aren’t looking at the only Fiat, Ford, etc, minibus in the country – there are many others. This means that if you are in any doubt at all, you can vote with your feet by walking away.

The Minibus Club is a specialist minibus insurance provider and has offered UK minibus insurance quotes since 1997. Visit our website for minibus driving advice and to receive an online quote for minibus insurance.

Home Game: Driving a Minibus in the UK

2009-12-31T03:49:00.000-08:00

Here’s a question: if a minibus is just like a car, why am I reading about driving one in the UK? Good question but the answer might surprise you. Yes, a minibus is like a car in that it has four wheels and the expected controls, lights and so forth. However, there are elements of using a minibus in the UK that differ from those applying to driving a car. This is especially important, as will become clear, when passengers are being carried, although the requirements are sensible enough to be met permanently.

The first piece of advice is a simple one: carry a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit. The reasons for doing his are obvious but the principle can be extended. A good torch, a warning triangle and a reflective waistcoat or jacket take up very little room and could be life-savers in certain circumstances; carry these items too.

Next on the list are practices concerning the use of a minibus’s onboard equipment. Switching on the sidelights when parking by the roadside after dark is a fairly obvious move, as is the use of the vehicle’s hazard warnings lights as and when necessary. However, there are less evident tips. For example, using the minibus’s hooter between 2300 and 0700 is frowned upon but don’t forget that doors and diesel engines are noisy too. When passengers are alighting in residential areas late at night, don’t keep the engine ticking over for minutes and take over the responsibility of opening and closing doors yourself. If in any doubt about why, imagine it is you who are nodding off to sleep behind those curtained bedroom windows!

Now for the dynamic aspect of minibus driving. Unless you’ve had access to Count Zobrowski’s original Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (raced at Brooklands in 1921, with a 23-litre, 6-cylinder engine), you’ll find a minibus feels very big and heavy at first. All you need to remember is that a minibus doesn’t accelerate or stop as quickly as a car can, isn’t designed to take corners fast and takes up more road space.

Next, speed limits. These can best be understood by consulting the following list.

Urban and residential areas: 30mph
A-class (single carriageway) roads: 50mph
Dual carriageways: 60mph
Motorways: 70mph
Motorways while towing a trailer: 60mph; you cannot use the fast lane while towing

What some minibus drivers forget, particularly when passengers are carried, is the matter of responsibility. As the driver, you are responsible for the comfort and safety of your passengers, and there are some simple tips to help you with this.

Thinks of the situation in terms of ‘pre-flight checks’ before setting off -

Are your route and stops planned out?
Are the windows and windscreen clean?
Have you enough fuel on board?
Are the tyres and lights all fine?
Are all the passengers seated?
Are they wearing their seatbelts?
Are all the doors closed?

When actually on the road, you need to keep a weather eye on how you drive. This may seem self-evident but many drivers tend to think in terms of themselves only. Harsh acceleration and braking, overenthusiastic cornering and excessive speed can do more than merely make passengers uncomfortable; it might make them sick!

Driving a minibus is easy but requires a little forethought. Attend to the above and you’ll find it makes the going that much easier.

Cover Story: Which Minibus Insurance Should You Choose?

2009-12-29T02:39:00.000-08:00

‘All men are equal but some are more equal than others.’ There’s a touch of cynicism in this 1913 quotation but here, it begs a question: is all minibus insurance equal. In practice, while minibus insurance must conform to particular rules, there are five types of minibus insurance. What follows explains the five types and highlights how each reflects a different kind of minibus usage.

Family

More and more people are appreciating the versatility of minibuses. After all, what type of vehicle could be better for transporting small groups of passengers in comfort and safety? Such use is especially relevant to those with an extended family.
Family minibus insurance is tailored to this kind of use but it has a significant proviso. The minibus concerned can be used for social, domestic and pleasure trips but using it for hire or reward is not permitted.

Charity

The versatile nature of the minibus is what tempts charitable organisations into using them. This temptation is strong, as is witnessed by the many minibuses on our roads in the hands of various charities.
Charity minibus insurance packages are aimed at non profit-making concerns and are designed to keep running costs to the minimum. Once again, a specific stipulation exists, in the shape of the requirement for a Section 19 or Section 22 Permit. This is to prove that the minibus insured is being used for non profit-making and charitable purposes.

MPV

For this article, a minibus and an MPV can be considered as identical. This is because an increasing number of commercial concerns have passenger-carrying MPVs. Part of these vehicles’ attraction for this use is that they can be easily modified to suit the Disability Discrimination Act.
As a consequence, organisations including nursing homes and educational establishments, as well as those that need to transport employees, are using MPVs. In answer to the obvious demand, minibus insurance brokers offer bespoke policies for MPVs used in this way.

Fleet

Spot more than one minibus in the same livery and the chances are you’re seeing part of a fleet of minibuses. Insurance companies, again with an eye to cost benefits, can cater for fleet usage of minibuses.
In this field, it’s common for minibus policies to cover more than one vehicle; some policies have no upper limit in terms of vehicle numbers. Similarly, parameters such as vehicle make and model are rarely fixed. These factors mean that a fleet of minibuses can be insured en masse, saving the costs and complicated paperwork involved in insuring vehicles individually.

Taxi

Minibuses can be seen operating as taxis and in doing so, they meet a demand. In being able to carry more passengers and additional luggage, minibus taxis are a desirable addition to any carrier’s fleet. Moreover, provisions for wheelchair-bound passengers are easy to arrange.
Taxis can be either public or private hire vehicles; the former can be hailed at any point, while the latter must be pre-booked. In either case, the same kind of insurance requirements apply. The main one is insurance for ‘The carriage of persons for hire or reward’. However, it is more-or-less universal for public liability insurance to be added to the policy that covers a minibus for use as a taxi. This should include an indemnity limit of at least 5 million pounds. Minibuses used in this way must also meet local government requirements.

After the Event: What to do Following a Minibus Accident

2009-12-23T08:13:00.000-08:00

Accidents are a sad fact of life; they happen and there's an end to it. Is this true? Inasmuch as accidents do happen, it is but there are procedures the minibus driver can follow that can lessen the dangers after an accident and make the outcome far easier to handle. What are these procedures? Read on and learn.

The minibus driver's first responsibility here the safety of his passengers, and of anyone else involved. So, his or her first action should be to ensure that the minibus is in a safe location. Park the vehicle off the carriageway (if possible) and apply the handbrake. Then switch on the minibus's hazard lights; if a warning triangle is carried, it can be placed no less than 50 metres from the vehicle. This can be done later and a triangle shouldn't be used on a motorway, for the sake of the driver's own safety.

The passengers come next in the post-accident checklist. Regardless of the severity of the impact, the minibus driver should find out if anyone on board is injured. Passengers may be in varying states of distress but it's essential to establish that anyone who has been injured is made a comfortable, applying simple first aid if necessary. Obviously, anyone with apparently severe injuries should not be moved. Should the emergency services be required, make the relevant call(s) as quickly as possible. Give as much information as you can about the vehicle's location and the number and status of any injured passengers, and do not leave the scene before the services arrive.

Keeping calm is important, as is keeping everyone inside the minibus. Human nature dictates that panic spreads and that people will try to get away from what they see as a dangerous situation. In fact, it's far more dangerous to have panicked passengers exiting a vehicle on to a busy carriageway. So, assuming there is no evidence of further danger, such as fire, the minibus should remain fully occupied. Should there be any such danger, or should parking off the road be impossible, have the passengers assemble well away from the minibus, and from traffic.

The subsequent steps are all about legalities and insurance. As such, they aren't as engaging as the above but are at least equally as important. They consist of the following points:-

1. Take details of all vehicles involved, jotting down the make, model and registration number of each. Take the names, addresses and insurance details of all drivers concerned. You must, by law, give your name, address, contact number and insurer details to other parties involved.

2. Make a simple sketch of the accident, noting down details such as date, time, estimated speed, location and circumstances. Using a mobile phone's camera or a digital camera to record the scene could prove invaluable. Remember to ask any attending police officer for an incident number

3. After a minor incident, or one where nobody else is involved, you may continue after you've ensured that no-one is injured and that the minibus remains roadworthy.

4. After a serious accident, the minibus driver must report any injuries to the police.

5. Never admit liability, apologise or offer payment at the scene. Doing so may affect any claim against you.

6. Finally, take the name and contact details from any witnesses.

Being armed with the above advice means the minibus driver will be able to minimise the immediate dangers and deal with the outcome of an accident relatively easily. Conversely, not following this advice can lead to all manner of problems, especially where an insurance claim ensues.

Avoiding a Winter of Discontent: Off-Season Minibus Driving Tips

2009-12-07T05:39:00.000-08:00

Driving a minibus in foul weather conditions is sometimes unavoidable. This is especially so should winter weather close in unexpectedly mid-journey. Given that, in all but the most extreme conditions, a minibus will cope and deliver its passengers in perfect safety, a few winter driving tips are appropriate. Applying them, together with a little common sense, will see even unseasoned travellers reaching their destination.

The first aspects of winter driving concern the minibus itself. In addition to the usual checks, it makes sense to ensure that the vehicle has suitable, non-freezing fluid in its screen wash bottle. Acquire a scraper, and some cloths, or a chamois leather, to deal with snowbound or iced up windows. Carry a can of de-icer (just in case) and keep a good torch and a reflective waistcoat or jacket, in the cab.

In essence, the problems of winter driving share two common denominators, visibility and grip. More accurately, it is the relative lack of these that causes problems and we can deal with each in turn.

Loss of visibility in winter can be due to several conditions. Rain-streaked glass means that you won't be able to see as well out of a minibus at any time of year. Add a measure of road grime, snow or ice and the problem is made more serious. While using windscreen washers and wipers is obvious, it's wise to clear any such debris off the glass before even considering driving. The same goes for the inside of the windows. Cold, wet conditions spell condensation especially with a full passenger count. While it may be tempting to let the minibus's demister and heated rear screen do the job, it's better to clear all glass before setting off. The same goes for the external lights' lenses – grime accumulates quickly and makes a significant difference to the light output.

While on the road, it is crucial to drive within the limits of vision. This works on a simple basis: if you can't see it, you won't be able to avoid it. So tailor your speed to suit the conditions, especially in fog. Also remember that fog droplets build up on a windscreen so leave your wipers to run on their intermittent setting, or use flick-wipe periodically. The natural tendency to drive too closely in fog can be overcome with that old standby, the two-second rule. It's better to apply a three or four-second rule, depending on your speed but remember that the vehicle you're following is punching a hole through the fog for you. Don't get too close.

A similar rule applies as regards lack of grip. Modern tyres are excellent but, without studs or chains, a tyre loses varying amounts of grip on snow or ice. As above, the solution is to drive within the limits of the available grip. Remember that black ice can lurk in areas yet to receive winter sunlight. Black ice at night can be still more dangerous. A road surface sparkling in the headlights is a good clue and it's significant that tyres on ice make no sound. If the wet road swishing or tyre rumble fades away, lift off the accelerator and slow down.

Above all, drive with finesse; clumsy control inputs cause skids. Drive within the lower limits imposed by the conditions and you'll arrive safely. Ignore the above advice and you may not arrive at all.

People Skills: Looking After Minibus Passengers

2009-11-09T06:08:00.000-08:00

Driving a minibus becomes a people skill in itself because minibuses are people movers. Moving people successfully isn’t difficult but the following pointers will make it as easy as possible, provided you pay attention to them.

The first point to acknowledge is that the roadworthiness of your minibus is your responsibility. Even if it’s just been serviced, you must make sure that the vehicle is fit to take passengers, especially as the best case scenario if it isn’t is the invalidation of the minibus’s insurance. In addition, make sure that any luggage carried is securely fixed; the need for passengers to have free access to two exits at all times means you won’t allow luggage to clog the aisle or doorways.

Pre-journey planning is never wasted. Knowing where you’re headed and the approximate timings of each stage of the journey forearms you; you can brief your passengers, after you close (but not lock) the minibus’s doors. Tell them about the journey times and give them a full schedule of, shall we say, comfort breaks, as well as meal breaks. For passengers, it’s always better to travel knowledgably than be kept in the dark!

Passengers behaving badly can cause minibus accidents. A few ground rules added to your briefing will help negate this. Start with the obvious by telling the passengers to belt up. This isn’t as rude as it sounds; all minibus passengers must wear their seatbelt and children under 135cm in height must use a child restraint. While it’s likely that securely seatbelted passengers will stay in their seats, it’s important that they stay there whenever the vehicle is moving. Equally, it’s wise to discourage anyone from chatting with you while you’re driving. This is a potentially dangerous distraction, as is use of a microphone when on the move. Should the minibus be wired for sound, avoid the temptation of playing tour guide to your passengers.

In one instance, the minibus driver can’t be expected to act as driver and conductor, as it were. When children are carried, it’s essential to have a passenger assistant, who can curb the children’s excesses for you. It’s wise to take an assistant who is trained and licensed to drive the minibus, should the need arise.

There are ground rules and practices that apply to specific groups of passengers. A ‘no alcohol’ rule may sound Draconian but having one makes sense. In fact, it’s illegal for passengers to consume alcohol in a minibus when travelling to and from a sporting fixture. Disabled passengers wheelchairs mustn’t face sideways and it’s usual to secure wheelchairs in the minibus, rather than relying solely on their fitted brakes. Certain passengers may have special requirements, which you can cater for, provided you know about them in advance.

The matter of safety comes to the fore when passengers enter or leave the vehicle, whether they’re in a group or being dropped off individually. Should an accident occur, it’s important to keep control of the passengers as well as keeping calm. Unless there’s an evident risk in doing so, such as a fire risk, keep everyone aboard, especially in busy areas and on roadside hard shoulders.

Regular minibus drivers are advised to take a driver training course, such as Community Transport Association (CTA)’s MiDAS (Minibus Driver Training Scheme). Apart from covering all aspects of passenger care and giving guidance on dealing with passenger illness and emergencies, this could reduce your minibus insurance premium.

The BIG Test: Passing a Minibus MOT

2009-11-02T04:20:00.000-08:00

A minibus MOT test is just like a car test, right? Wrong, actually. In fact, though the test procedures are much the same, a minibus MOT is a Class V test, not a Class IV ‘car’ test. In addition, there is a specialised test for a minibus with newly-fitted seatbelts. However, the main difference between a car MOT and a minibus MOT is one of scale. A testing station offering Class V testing must have the equipment to cope with larger vehicles.

Like a car MOT test, a minibus test starts with an examination of the below decks hardware. The tyres, braking system, steering, suspension and exhaust are scrutinised, to ensure they meet with the minimum standards concerned. This exercise includes spotting the effects of corrosion and damage as well as of simple wear and tear. Special attention is paid to the fuel system, to find any evidence of leakage, which could pose a fire risk. The minibus’s exterior bodywork and its underside are checked for corrosion and evidence of significant damage.

The MOT tester, working to a strict code of practice, then examines the minibus’s lighting system. This examination involves ensuring that the lights are properly fixed and functional, and in the required condition. The driver’s view of the road must be uninterrupted, the mirrors must be present and correct and the vehicle’s registration plates and VIN number must be present and up to scratch. More dynamic tests follow, including measurement of the minibus’s exhaust emissions, the performance of the service brake system and of the parking brake.

Inside, the minibus’s controls and instruments are checked over, as are its seats and the mountings, condition, operation and position of all seat belts. The horn must work.
Unlike a car, whose first MOT test isn’t necessary until it’s three years old, a minibus must have its first MOT test at one year old, then yearly thereafter. Currently, a Class V MOT test, for private passenger vehicles and ambulances - 13-16 passenger seats, costs 58.65. The exception, a Class Va test, is for minibuses newly fitted with seat belts. This is a one-off test, provided no further seatbelts are installed, and costs 79.30.

The vast majority of minibuses need a Class V MOT test, though there are two exceptions. Class IV is for minibuses with up to 12 passenger seats (excluding the driver) and such a test may be carried out at any appointed garage. A Class VI test is for a Public Service Vehicle (PSV); it has a different certificate and is always carried out at a government testing station. While no permit minibus requires a Class VI test you may elect to have for a one voluntarily if you received a Certificate of Initial Fitness with your new vehicle.

So, a minibus MOT test is very like a car MOT test in the practical sense but there are subtle differences. Modern MOT testing stations are equipped to deal with the newer additions, such as ABS and power steering. However, one aspect doesn’t change. It’s worth checking the obvious before submitting your minibus for an MOT test. Nobody would argue about risking a test fail for an item like a worn tyre or a blown bulb.

Abroad Concepts: Taking A Minibus To Europe

2009-10-19T03:35:00.000-07:00

Many individuals and organisations take vehicles to Europe with minimal trouble. However, while cars, caravans and motorhomes can be used in the EU with little more than the essentials, taking a minibus to Europe requires a little more in the way of legal documentation. The aforementioned essentials are also necessary but the addition of EU-legal number plates or a GB plate, the relevant insurance cover and breakdown insurance are obvious requirements. However, you need a number of other items, as the following explains.

To travel in the EU, and in the ASOR signatory states Turkey, Switzerland, Norway and some Eastern European countries, you need either a ‘waybill’ or an ‘own account certificate’. This applies to any vehicle with more than eight passenger seats.

Which do you need? That depends on whether the organisation involved with the trip is profit making. If it is, you need a waybill, or EU Journey Form. This is for use in the European Union and is available, for a fee, from the Confederation of Passenger Transport (tel. 020 72403131) or the International Road Freight Office (tel. 0191 2014090).

Should a non profit-making concern be involved, you can use an Own Account Certificate (OAC). One is available, at no cost, from the International Road Freight Office (tel. 0191 2014090). It will remain valid for five years but an OAC can’t be used if the organisation is using a hired vehicle.

As is usually the case in such circumstances, still more documents are required. You must carry a minibus insurance certificate, the vehicle’s registration document and a European accident form. An insurance Green Card is recommended; your insurance company will see to this for you. The driver’s licence must also be carried and will be valid in EU and EEA member states. You don’t need an IDP (International Driving Permit).

The final piece of essential paperwork is a formal letter verifying permission to drive. Assuming the driver is not the vehicle’s registered keeper, he’ll need a statement, on the relevant organisation’s stationery, that the organisation is the registered keeper and that the bearer of the letter has permission to drive it.

Just as an aside, the Section 19 Permit, which has been referred to in these articles, isn’t valid abroad. The authority concerned recommends that a minibus being operated for hire or reward may not be driven abroad unless the driver has attained a full PCV D or D1(unrestricted for hire or reward) licence. Acquiring one involves both theory and driving tests.

Lastly, minibus drivers must comply with EC Driver’s Hours rules on all international journeys. More importantly, they must prove this and to do so, a tachograph is needed. This must begin recording from the start of the journey in the UK and keep recording until the end of the homebound journey. One tachograph disc per driver per day is required. Should you be tempted to not install and use a tachograph correctly or falsify it in any way, you can expect a heavy fine.

Taking a minibus to Europe is made a touch tricky by these requirements. However, it can be - and is - done without too much trouble. That said, this short article is only a guide. For more detail, see the Scout’s excellent document about this subject on the web.

More Top Tips From A Master Minibus Driver

2009-09-17T08:33:00.000-07:00

Driving a minibus is easy enough for any driver. There is, however, one aspect that minibuses share with children – neither comes with instructions. This is where being able to pick the brains of a minibus driver with experience comes in. Our tame expert, D1 Category licensed Scout Leader David, has been driving minibuses for 30 years. Here are some more hints and tips from him, for minibus drivers starting from scratch to those with many miles under their belt.

For drivers new to minibuses, David begins by pointing out that driving one is unlike driving a car. True, the layout of the controls is the same but the driving technique can be quite different. The relatively high overall weight of a minibus means its driver must have patience. Pulling away at a roundabout or junction, or overtaking, are scenarios in which more time is needed to accommodate the minibus’s relatively reduced acceleration. Moreover, the size that adds to the weight of a minibus isn’t a licence to use it aggressively. Giving consideration to other drivers is essential, as is an awareness of the vehicle’s stopping distances in dry and wet conditions. Also, be aware of other drivers’ tendency to cut in after overtaking.

David goes on to warn new drivers about manoeuvring. He stresses that the inevitable blind spot warrants due consideration and suggests making sure that the minibus is fitted with a reversing alarm. While this lets pedestrians know the vehicle is about to reverse, David says that drivers should not reverse unless they can see all around the minibus and that reversing on a campsite is not wise. He further suggests that drivers new to minibus use should take a relevant training course, as outlined below.

What about on the road? David recommends carrying a spare can of diesel fuel. Unlike petrol, diesel needs the significant heat of, say, a fire to make it a danger aboard a minibus and it doesn’t have the problem of the fumes given off by petrol. His next suggestion is to always start a journey of any length with a full fuel tank, to lessen the chance of running out of fuel. Why is this important? Because after running a diesel engine dry, the driver can’t simply top up with fuel and drive on. To work, diesel engines must atomise their fuel at very high pressure and a fuel system that’s run dry can’t do that unaided. So, to save having to call out a mechanic to bleed the system, never let it run out of fuel.

The Scout Association (SA) has the following guidelines concerning minibuses…

Drivers should keep a journey log book detailing who’s driven where. Any problems and the actions taken to resolve them should also be logged. This shows due diligence has been taken.

The SA’s has a dispensation for scouts, who aren’t fare-paying passengers. This can cause complications when a minibus is hired out but the hirer’s making a contribution to maintenance offers a solution.

When hiring out a minibus, the SA suggests the following are checked…

Has the driver got a D1 Licence?
Has the driver got a MIDAS Certificate*?
Has he/she driven a minibus before?
Is he/she fit to drive?

*MIDAS is the Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme.

David closes with the information that the going rate for minibus hire is currently £50 per day.

Above all, David’s hints are the consequence of his extensive experience of driving a minibus. As such, they can be taken as appropriate to all minibus drivers, regardless of circumstances.

Investment Portfolio: Minibuses - to Have or to Hire?

2009-09-14T07:18:00.000-07:00

Like any vehicle, a minibus can either be hired or bought. Each approach has its merits and, just as importantly, its pitfalls. It is nevertheless possible to make the right decision and all it takes is the consideration of a few questions.

Which is the cheaper method?

That depends on the type of use you intend. Suppose you only need a minibus infrequently. Road tax, insurance and maintenance costs are ongoing, regardless of whether the minibus is in regular use. Hire costs mount up too but for infrequent use, hiring is the more economic option.

I often use a minibus, should I buy one?

Perhaps but again, it depends. Can you accommodate a minibus? Storing a large vehicle can be tricky and on-road parking, even if permitted, isn’t the most secure option. Can you look after one? Servicing and maintenance are essential to the health of you and your passengers as well as to that of the vehicle. Such things cost money, over and above everyday costs and are covered in hire rates.

Supposing I also run it as a passenger car?

Good point. A minibus can do double duty, within limitations. The downsides concern size and cost. Can you live without using multi-storey car parks and parking at a distance from your destination? Can you afford to run a vehicle that is thirstier than a car? Will you carry more than three or four passengers often enough to warrant the outlay?
On the upside, you’d never be stuck for a vehicle that can carry a lot, be it passengers or goods. Minibuses are extremely capacious, which can come in very useful.

I’d like to buy a minibus. What about a new one?

Another good point but one with a trap into which many have fallen with a loud clatter. A new vehicle, minibus or otherwise, is a tempting proposition, especially in the current economic climate. That said, any new vehicle will suffer a staggering loss in value the minute it turns a wheel in your ownership. Depreciation must be factored in to your calculations unless you know for certain that you will be keeping your minibus for a long time. If buying new, you can use the economic downturn to your advantage; minibus dealerships are unlikely to be fighting customers off so your business will be more than just important to them. Use this in your negotiations and visit more than one dealer.

What about a used minibus?

More traps loom here but protection is to be found. All motor dealers have to offer a measure of protection to their clients, including HPI (vehicle history) checks that will reveal any outstanding finance and unsavoury history in a minibuses’ past.
As in any secondhand vehicle purchase, the rule is caveat emptor…buyer beware. Should the vehicle be young enough to have any remaining manufacturer’s servicing and/or warranty cover, it’s a good bet. Most importantly, it should have a full service history, with the stamps to prove it has been serviced at a factory-approved concern. If you doubt your vehicle choosing skills, look for ‘vehicle inspections’ in Yellow Pages: the major motoring organisations offer this service and a professional report represents money well spent.

So, should I hire or should I buy?

Easy. If your costs for hiring minibuses in a given year are more than what it would cost for the payment and upkeep of a minibus of your own, the answer is obvious. Good hunting!

Top Tips from a Master Minibus Driver

2009-09-11T06:39:00.000-07:00

“You’re never too old to learn” is a helpful saying and the concept behind it goes far further. Few would dispute that no one is too skilled, experienced or clever to learn either. However, we can all learn from someone who has much experience. David is a Scout Leader who’s been a D1-licenced minibus driver for 30 years. Let’s hear what he has to say.

David favours Ford-engined LDV minibuses, saying that their 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine is better than any normally aspirated unit. Regardless of what’s under the bonnet before him, David uses the same pre-flight checks before taking a party of scouts out on a road trip. He recommends that the minibus be serviced at a reputable garage. He prefers the input of qualified mechanics, rather than DIY servicing. That said, David himself also gives the minibus he’s to use a pre-trip once over. This includes checking the tyres’ condition and pressures, as well as taking a look at the oil level and ensuring that windows are clean and that the minibus’s floor is swept. It’s also David’s practice to keep a logbook for each minibus. In this, notes concerning any problems are made, with follow-up actions being logged and subsequently signed off.

With his preparations made, David follows some important self-established guidelines when he drives. When used in the UK, a minibus needn’t be equipped with a tachograph. However, David will ensure he has a rest break at least every two hours. His personal best in terms of trip time was a five-hour sojourn to Ireland for the Irish Jamboree in Dublin. A one-hour ferry crossing, out bound from Holyhead, Anglesey, obviously constituted a bracing rest break!

For any respectably lengthy trip with Scouts, David recommends that another Scout Leader who can drive the minibus should be to hand. He also has some tips about loading the vehicle, preferring not to tow a trailer as this can overload the minibus to the detriment of its clutch. Whilst it’s fine to use a roof rack, David warns against overloading it as this can make for a top-heavy combination. However, especially as many Scout groups use box vans, David warns that LPG gas bottles should be carried on the roof rack. Carrying gas bottles inside the minibus or van is frowned upon because leaking gas and confined spaces never mix.

With his 30 years at the wheel of minibuses, has David any stories to relate? He tells of an incident that took place on the way back from a camping trip to Brownsea Island, the birthplace of scouting. Though David clearly lived to tell the tale, it’s just as clear that a near miss with a foreign articulated lorry driving on the wrong side of the road was a memorable event. This also suggests that constant vigilance when driving is more than worth a place in a minibus driver’s personal portfolio.

David also makes a significant point concerning driving a minibus carrying youngsters. They may be excited at the prospect of a trip but David will temper this with some simple ground rules. In his book, distractions equal potential danger and noise is particularly distracting for any driver. So, while he doesn’t insist on sepulchral silence, David respectfully requests that the noise level is kept within reasonable bounds.

Thanks to David for his practical tips for practicable journeys. He will be telling us more but for now, it’s obvious that his advice can benefit any minibus driver.

Licence to Bill: Section 19 Permits for Minibus Drivers. Part Two

2009-09-07T08:40:00.000-07:00

Last time, we looked at how Section 19 permits exempt minibus drivers from having to hold a PSV operator’s licence. Now, we can look at the remaining rules, as well as a how you acquire a permit.

The following rules concern who can drive the minibus. These ensure that drivers may use a Section 19 permit because they meet the following requirements.

All permit drivers must be aged 21 or more.

If a driver passed the ‘car’ driving test (category B on a photocard licence) before the 1st January 1997, he or she will hold the automatic category D1 entitlement to drive a 9 to 16 seat minibus. This will allow such a vehicle to be driven under the permit for as long as the driver holds the D1 entitlement.
When the licence expires, the driver, having proved he or she meets the required health standards by passing a compulsory medical examination, may receive a renewal of D1 entitlement lasting 3 years.

If a driver passed the test on or after the 1st January 1997, automatic D1 entitlement won’t have been granted. The driver may drive a vehicle with up to eight passenger seats. However, he or she may drive a 9 to 16 seat minibus if

• He or she has held a category B licence for 2 years
• He or she receives nothing more than out-of-pocket expenses for driving the vehicle
• If aged 70 or more, he or she can pass the medical examination for category D1 entitlement
• The minibus’s gross weight is 3.5 tonnes or less, or 4.25 tonnes or less, including specialized equipment for disabled passengers

Now for the practicalities of acquiring a Section 19 permit for a minibus. The first of these is how to apply. A permit is normally granted to a specific group, a scout group, for example. However, it is possible for an individual named on behalf of such a body to be granted a permit. With this in mind, you need to know where to apply and there are several sources of application forms, including

Your area’s Traffic Commissioner

Your local authority

Umbrella originations, which are bodies that assist with or co-ordinate community groups’ activates in the area. Examples include The Scout Association and Age Concern and these umbrella organisations are permitted to issue Section 19 permits to groups that are associated with them.

A designated body. These are national voluntary organisations and in some cases, they can issue permits to other bodies with similar interests.

Schools and other bodies associated with education, provided they fulfil the authority’s duties under the Education Act 1944.

As you can see, tracking down an application form will require some web searches and/or phone calls but there are some aspects of Section 19 permits that are easy to convey. For example, the cost. Currently, a permit sourced via your area Traffic Commissioner costs £7. Local authorities set their own charge, but the maximum appears to be around the £12 mark.

A section 19 permit for a minibus lasts indefinitely and each comes with a disc, to be displayed on the vehicle, in the same way as a tax disc. The rule is one permit, one vehicle at one time but permits can be swapped from minibus to minibus, provided each comes under the small bus parameters mentioned above. You can use your permit on a hired minibus but if another non-profit making organisation rents your minibus, it cannot use your permit(s). It must use its own. Finally, if you lose your permit and/or disc, you can request duplicates. However, if either turns up, you must return them immediately.

In the final analysis, a Section 9 permit is a licence to charge your passengers fairly and legally, without a PSV licence. Taking advantage of this exemption makes sense, just as meeting the regulations to do so is easy.

Licence to Bill: Section 19 Permits for Minibus Drivers.

2009-08-24T07:37:00.000-07:00

At first glance, a minibus relevant ‘Section 19 permit’ sounds just a little bit sinister, bringing to mind phrases such as ‘the Roswell incident’ or ‘Area 51′. However, Section 19 isn’t a top-secret US Military base in Nevada, nor is it a place where the remains of crash-landed aliens were (allegedly) taken to be studied. Section 19 is in fact part of the Transport Act. Now, there’s no need to become enmeshed in the shades of meaning in the Department for Transport’s deathless prose. Happily, we can simply look at the bottom line, which reveals that with a Section 19 permit, non-profit making organisations may make a charge for carrying passengers, without holding the normally-essential Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operator’s licence. The relevant Traffic Commissioner, among others, grants a permit.

One needn’t read between the lines to appreciate that this facility is valuable for, let’s say, ‘club minibuses’. Nevertheless, there are plenty of lines to be read and this article is to guide you through the rules and regulations. You must know about these to apply for and use a Section 19 permit.

First, we need to have a definition of a minibus in the context of Section 19 permits. Here, a minibus is a passenger-carrying vehicle with more than eight seats but fewer than 16 seats, as well as a driver’s seat. Next, we need to define ‘hire or reward’, as applied to the kind of minibus use we’re proposing. For this, hire or reward is any payment that gives a person a right to be carried on a vehicle. In short, it’s a fare.

Now, we must understand the rules that apply to the non-profit making organisations which can use minibuses to transport fare-paying passengers without holding a PSV operator’s licence, courtesy of the exemption offered by a Section 19 permit. Deep breath? Not yet, because there’s one simple rule. This says that you cannot offer transport to the general public under the permit and you can’t use it outside the UK.

Next come the rules that define a non-profit making body. These say this is a body that runs transport services without a view to profiting from them and doesn’t run them as incidental to a profit-making activity. Generally, registered charities qualify, as do non-profit making bodies that run activities that benefit the community or are concerned with recreation, social welfare, religion or education.

Here’s where the rules become a bit more complicated but they exist for a reason. The following rules are used so that the voluntary organisation concerned takes proper responsibility for its passengers. The rules – simplified – say this…

(a) Vehicles used under a Section 19 permit must always be in a fit and serviceable condition.

(b) Drivers must be told to report any vehicle defects as soon as possible

(d) Any hire vehicle used must meet the relevant conditions of fitness for use.

These ‘rules of responsibility’ apply to the vehicle(s) used. Two further such rules apply to what must be carried on board at all times…

(a) At least one fire extinguisher complying with the relevant British Standard, with…

1: A minimum test rating of 8a or 12b
2: Water or foam inside, or the indication it contains Halon 1301

(b) A clearly marked first aid kit that’s easy to reach, is regularly checked and has…

Ten foil-packed antiseptic wipes
One disposable bandage no less than 7.5cm wide
Two triangular bandages
A packet of 24 assorted adhesive dressings
Two sterile eye pads, with attachments
Twelve assorted safety pins
Blunt ended, rustproof scissors

Rules and yet more rules! Remember they are there to keep you and your passengers safe. We hope this article has enlightened you, keep a copy in your minibus for future reference.

Have Minibus Will Travel

2009-08-20T08:58:00.000-07:00

Answering the question of who can and who cannot drive a minibus is simple provided you’re given a little help. The DVLA’s regulations become more accessible if their common denominator is used as a guide. This is the category of licence held by the minibus driver-to-be and the categories break down like this…

Category B

A Category B licence is a car licence and with one, you can drive a minibus with between 9 and 16 passenger seats if…

You’re driving socially for a non-commercial body and not driving for hire or reward (unless using a permit).

You are aged 21 or over.

You’ve had your licence for 2 years or more.

You’re driving on a voluntary basis.

Your minibus weighs no more than 3.5 tonnes, not including specialised equipment for disabled passengers. An extra 750kg is allowed to cover the weight of such equipment for disabled passengers or wheelchair users.

At 70 or more, you meet the medical requirements associated with a Category D1 licence.

You aren’t being paid, in cash or kind, apart from receiving out-of-pocket expenses.

You aren’t towing a trailer.

You are driving in the UK.

So, there are requirements to be met but none are particularly difficult to understand. However, it isn’t yet time to feel smug because there’s more. Here, licence category and chronology interact.

Category B Licence issued before the 1st January 1997

If you had a car licence from before this date, you can drive a minibus subject to these rules…

You are aged 21 or more.

The minibus has no more than 17 seats, including the driver’s seat.

You’re not driving for hire or reward.

Again, fairly simple…but then there are the new rules. ‘New’ isn’t too accurate a prefix for these rules, as the date shows, but they’re perfectly clear…

New rules from 1 January 1998

You keep your minibus driving entitlement, in the UK and on temporary visits aboard and for non-hire or reward use until you need to renew your licence.

To retain your minibus entitlement (that is, Category D1 and D1+E not for hire or reward) you must make a special application, which also means meeting a higher medical standard.

A successful application renews your minibus entitlement for three years, subject to the above limitations concerning where you drive and what you receive for driving there. Should your Category D1 and D1+E status not be renewed, you might still be able to drive a minibus under certain circumstances. When you must renew your licence, your reminder letter will come with the necessary advice enclosed.

This leaves three groups to be considered, which we can call young drivers, medically restricted drivers and older drivers…

Category B Licence issued after the 1st January 1997

If you have this kind of licence, Category D1 won’t be on it. However, you can still drive a minibus but if you also want to tow a trailer, you must pass a further test to add +E to your licence.

Medically Restricted Licence

Generally speaking, all drivers have to renew their licence on reaching the age of 70. However, younger holders of a restricted medical licence are also subject to the ‘new’ rules. Fortunately, driving a non-commercial minibus voluntarily is still allowed…until the driver’s 70th birthday

Older Drivers

When minibus drivers reach 70, a licence renewal becomes necessary, followed by renewals at three-year intervals. The official line is that, ‘DVLA requires confirmation at age of 70 that no medical disability is present…’ Thereafter, licence renewal applications need to be accompanied by a medical self-declaration.

The solution to questions about which licence entitles you to drive a minibus is easy to express. In short, you might not need the licence categories you have but you must have the licence categories you need.

Minibus Weekly: pre-trip or weekly checks for your minibus

2009-08-12T07:39:00.000-07:00

Your minibus is always there and you can simply jump aboard and use it. Or can you? You might think so but without the regular pre-driving checks it needs, your minibus may let you down, sooner or later. Getting into a weekly routine of checking over your minibus doesn’t take much time or effort and will reward you because your minibus will remain reliable and therefore dependable.

Starting under the bonnet makes sense. Regardless of whether it runs on petrol or diesel, your minibus needs the same under bonnet checks. Such as? Oil and water are an engine’s lifeblood and if either runs low, the engine will suffer. Often, you can check a minibus’s coolant level by looking at the header tank. If the level’s low, top it up but don’t attempt this if the engine is hot – releasing the cap of a hot water system can unleash a scalding geyser.

It’s also wise to check the engine oil level when your minibus’s engine is cold – and when it hasn’t been running for a few minutes. Dipping the oil then will give you an accurate reading and there are usually level marks on the dipstick to give you an idea of how much oil to add. Your minibus handbook will tell you how much oil represents the difference between the ‘low’ and ‘high’ marks. Moreover, it will tell you what kind of oil you should be using and where the fresh oil should be poured into the engine.

Four further level checks apply under the bonnet and three of these are safety-related. The first is the brake fluid level. As with the coolant, the level in the see-though brake fluid reservoir can be directly observed – don’t forget to check the clutch fluid level, if your minibus has a hydraulically operated clutch. The second level to check is that of the power steering fluid. Often, the reservoir has a tiny dipstick under its cap. Level check three concerns the screen wash fluid. Make sure that the bottle is full and if it isn’t, top it up with a mixture of clean water and fresh screen wash fluid. The last of our quartet of under bonnet checks is often overlooked. The level of electrolyte in the battery is important, provided it can be checked (some batteries are no-maintenance items). Should the level be low, replenish the battery’s cells with distilled water – dry batteries are for torches!

Your minibus needs further checks above decks. Keeping the tyres up to pressure goes without saying but don’t forget the spare tyre. While at ground level, look at state of your minibus’s tyres. Are the treads unworn? Any cuts or bulges? Any odd wear patterns? No? Good!

Lastly, lump the remaining aspects under the general heading of glass. Clean the windscreen and all windows. Do the same for the mirrors and finish off by wiping over and checking your minibus’s lights.

Keeping your minibus in top condition using these easy maintenance tasks soon becomes second nature. You should naturally be still more scrupulous if a long trip is in the offing but making your minibus ‘housekeeping’ a regular assignment means you’re likely to nip any trouble in the bud. What’s more, these little chores can preserve your spotless minibus insurance record. Knowing your tyres, lights, glass and under bonnet items are in prime condition means you’re unlikely to suffer an accident or commit a traffic offence through missing a safety-related or legal shortcoming.

Upsizing to a minibus: hints for car drivers

2009-08-10T06:39:00.000-07:00

Driving a minibus is exactly like driving a car, right? This statement is fine but for the word ‘exactly’. A minibus has a car-like cockpit, the same kind of controls operate the onboard facilities and the minibus’s on-road behaviour is like a car’s. That said, you get the benefits of a high driving position and the enhanced vision that goes with it. However, there are significant differences and adapting your driving style to suit is important.

The main difference between a car and a minibus can be expressed in one word: scale. It’s obvious that a minibus is the bigger vehicle and its greater weight must be allowed for. Driving a minibus is like driving a car on a larger scale.

In terms of size, it’s best to think of your minibus as a box on wheels. Its nose may be shorter than your car’s bonnet but a minibus’s tail extends much further behind the driving seat. A minibus is also considerably wider than a car, as well as taller. No matter how wide-ranging the cover provided by your minibus insurance may be, you’d lose out from a string of small claims from minor incidents. Pay attention to your minibus’s physical ‘footprint’ on the road and your no claims discount will survive.

A simple way of doing this is used by novice drivers of larger vehicles. Jot down your minibus’s external dimensions – length, width and height – clearly on a sticky label and place it somewhere near your line of sight. You may pooh-pooh this, saying, “I don’t need that, I can judge the size of my minibus”. That’s fine, if in the early stages, you remember it when driving or manoeuvring in a tight spot or approaching a car-park height barrier. Your ‘size sticker’ is a reminder and the alternative ugly crunching sound when you touch something would cost far, far more.

Weight is the other aspect and it’s just as important. A minibus is heavier than a car, period. This is obvious on paper but less obvious are the on-road dynamic abilities of a minibus, until you’re driving one. Punchy turbo diesel engine or not, a minibus will accelerate less quickly than a car. It will steer less precisely than a car, it’s body will roll more in corners and it will take more stopping than a car. Your driving style will soon accommodate these differences but you need to remain aware of them.

Arguably the most significant factor in the combination of the size and weight of a minibus lies in its ‘presence’ on the road. Being bigger and heavier than a car, a minibus has a greater presence on the road, just as, say, an articulated lorry has a greater presence than a minibus. This gives you, the driver, a responsibility. When, for example, negotiating a roundabout or a tricky junction, you need to signal what you intend to do and do exactly what your indicators are telling other drivers. Being timid, indecisive or irresolute behind the wheel will rightly earn you other drivers’ disrespect. Equally, being a bully will arouse anger.

Above all, remember that the drivers of larger vehicles are generally professional drivers. Minibus drivers should aim to emulate, if not assume a professional approach to driving.

Stretching your gallon – making the most of your diesel fuel

2009-06-28T15:18:00.000-07:00

As the financial crisis puts an ever-tightening grip on everyone’s funds, getting the maximum mileage from the fuel we buy for our minibus is more than just desirable.

Peak Efficiency

Modern diesel engines are very efficient. As these hints and tips show, achieving the best fuel consumption isn’t difficult, just apply these sensible, logical rules when using your minibus. Get into the habit and you’ll reap significant rewards.

Prep School

Preparing your minibus to achieve the best fuel consumption is easy and much of the preparation involves one-off tasks…

• Tyres can be a drag. The minibus manufacturer’s tyre pressures are the right ones but often, you can tweak them to a slightly higher figure. Conversely, under-inflated tyres worsen economy.

• Consider having ‘economy’ tyres fitted next time around. Most tyre manufacturers offer tyres that give better mpg.

• Got freeloading passengers? You may feel that you need your de-icer year-round, that the coats, Wellington boots and seventeen paperbacks in the back are essential. Yet everything aboard is dead weight. Take items like a fire extinguisher and a small tool kit but leave the rest at home – don’t give it a free ride.

• Must you carry a full load of fuel all the time? You needn’t. Unless you know you’ll be driving for many miles or to places where the garages close early, fill up with only as much fuel as you need, plus a percentage for emergencies. Hoarding heavy fuel aboard for no good reason is uneconomical.

• Are you using the best fuel? The ‘high-performance’ diesel fuels on offer can be the more efficient in modern minibuses. Try calculating the difference from your mileometer. As the engine’s electronics adapt to the new fuel, the result may surprise you.

• Beware of ‘brewing’ your own fuel, from cooking oil, for example. A modern engine’s fuel pump is a precision instrument; the wrong fuel could destroy it.

Pilot’s Briefing

The minibus’s maker can only offer its user so much. How you drive can make a vast difference to economy…

• Any internal combustion engine is least efficient when it’s cold. Always start driving from cold – warming a vehicle at rest is very costly.

• Drive efficiently. Diesel engines are low revving but have a broad power band. Use this to get into the highest possible gear quickly.

• Moderate your speed. A higher average speed may save you time but the greater road drag and wind resistance are expensive on fuel.

• Plan your route carefully. A consistent cruising speed on an open road is far more economical than continual acceleration, gear changing and braking. Try to use motorways or dual carriageways wherever possible.

• Pay attention to your journey’s timing. Jams occur at commuting times, even on motorways. Steer clear at these times, or make your stops while the office workers are travelling.

• Get a satnav with TMC (Traffic Message Channel) technology…then you can avoid traffic jams using its live updates.

The Minibus Club is a specialist minibus insurance provider and has offered UK minibus insurance quotes since 1997. Visit our website for minibus driving advice and to receive an online quote for minibus insurance.

Definition of a Minibus

2009-04-01T05:38:00.000-07:00

If you've got a large family and you've got a large car, you may be worried that you're driving a minibus.

MPV's and people carriers can have as many as 8 seats and when ferrying family and friends around you may well feel like a minibus driver. But rest assured- you're not driving one.

To be classed a minibus, the vehicle has to have between 9 and 16 passenger seats. If it has more than 16 then you are driving a coach.

Our website at minibusclub.co.uk has more information on carrying passengers.

Driving Licence Requirements for a Minibus

2009-04-01T05:36:00.000-07:00

If your driving licence was issued after the 1st January 1997, then you'll need a D1 classification to drive a minibus.

There are exceptions that allow a minibus to be driven on a category B (car) licence:

The minibus is used for a social purpose.
You are over 21 and have held you category B licence for more than 2 years. Drivers over 70 will need to meet the health standards required for a D1 licence.
The maximum weight of the minibus is 3.5 tonnes. If it is carrying specialist equipment for transporting disabled passengers then the weight is increased to 4.25 tonnes.
The minibus cannot be used for towing a trailer.
The minibus can only be used in the UK. Driving outside of the UK requires a D1 licence.
No payment can be accepted for driving the minibus.

For more information about the minibus driving licence requirements go to the Directgov website. Our website, www.minibusclub.co.uk, has more information about specialist minibus insurance.

Types of Minibus Insurance Explained

2009-04-01T05:33:00.000-07:00

The three main types of minibus insurance are Comprehensive, Third Party Fire and Theft, and Third Party Only.

Third Party is the minimum level of insurance cover as required by law. It will cover liability for death or injury to third parties, liability for damage to other people’s property and legal costs in connection to claims against your policy.

With Fire and Theft the minibus is covered for damage caused when stolen or by fire.

Comprehensive is the highest level of minibus insurance and covers most risks including medical expenses after an accident, replacing personal effects lost after a theft or accident, and insuring against damage to the minibus’s windows and windscreen.

The three types of cover are only standard policies. It is recommended to tailor the insurance to your specific requirements. For instance additional public liability may be needed if the vehicle is carrying fee paying passengers or European breakdown cover for minibuses that travel regularly to the continent.

To find the right cover for you contact the Minibus Club. We will provide a policy appropriate to your minibus and its use, ensuring there are no unexpected surprises when you have to make a claim.

What To Do After a Minibus Accident

2009-04-01T05:30:00.000-07:00

As a minibus driver the first consideration after an accident is to make the scene as safe as possible.

1. Switch your minibus hazard lights on. Use a warning triangle if available. Take great care when placing the triangle at least 50 metres away from the vehicle. Warning triangles should never be used on the motorway.

2. Assess your passengers. If any are injured do not move them unless there is an immediate risk from other vehicles or fire. If the minibus must be vacated move the passengers to a safe location as far from the vehicle as possible. Be aware of approaching traffic when exiting the minibus.

3. If needed call the emergency services immediately. Provide them with as much information as possible about the accident scene and any injured passengers. As the minibus driver you will be required to stay at the scene until they arrive.

4. Any injuries should be reported to the Police. Try to keep details of all vehicles and people involved in the accident.

5. If the accident is minor or does not involve other people, check there are no injuries to your passengers and your minibus is roadworthy before continuing with your journey.

When an accident is serious enough that an insurance claim may follow do not admit liability at the scene. As rude as it may seem, do not apologise. This can be interpreted as admitting liability. And do not offer any payment.

The law requires you to give any person who is affected by the accident your details. These should include your name, contact number and the name of you insurance provider.

It is very important to record all details of an accident. Information should include:

1. Vehicles involved
Record the types of vehicles and their registration number. Obtain the details of the other people involved in the accident including their name, address, contact number, insurance details and policy number.

2. Accident scene
Include details about the weather, visibility and road condition. Estimate the speed of the vehicles prior to the accident. Record the location of the accident, the date and the time. If the police attend the scene then ask for an incident number.

3. Details of Witness
Ask for the name and contact details of any people who witnessed the accident.

The best advice if involved in an accident is to stay calm. Losing your temper, however angry you may feel, will not help an already difficult situation. As a minibus driver your first responsibility is to your passengers and their safety. By taking a controlled approach to the situation will prevent putting others at further risk. The details gathered at the scene of the accident will be valuable information for resolving any legal or minibus insurance issues that may follow.

For more information about minibus insurance and advice about making a claim, contact us at The Minibus Club.

Ten Bizarre Motor Insurance Claims

2009-04-01T05:28:00.000-07:00

Every year insurance providers receive a variety of unusual and bizarre claims:

1. One motorist was in such a panic when a wasp flew into his car and up his trouser leg that he hit the accelerator; unfortunately, also hitting the car in front.

2. Cows can be a problem. In one particular instance, a driver claimed that the cow jumped onto his quad bike, presumably by accident rather than with the intention of driving away.

3. In another incident involving a cow the driver described his experience, “As I came over a hill, I hit a cow in the middle of the road, which then hit the bonnet and shattered the windscreen with its rear end”. Thankfully, the cow survived.

4. When driving close to a herd of cattle try to avoid their tongues. In a particularly bizarre insurance claim a motorist stated that the cows caused damage to his car’s paintwork by licking it.

5. Cows aren’t the only animal causing problems. A driver claimed that a reindeer fell onto the bonnet of his car. Thankfully it wasn't at Christmas and the reindeer did not have a red nose.

6. When driving in Africa zebras can be difficult, especially if they intentionally collide with your car, as was the case with one claim.

7. Always secure your shopping bags when driving. One driver had the misfortune to find that a potato had fallen out of the bag and had become lodged under his brakes, rending them useless.

8. Bizarrely flying kebabs can be a hazard on the road. Apparently, a driver was rounding a bend when a frozen kebab flew out of his car, hitting a passing car and causing damage.

9. That’s not the only frozen item causing damage. Another motorist claimed, “A frozen squirrel fell out of a tree and crashed through the windscreen onto the passenger seat”.

10. If flashed at by a speed camera try to contain your anger. One motorist, fed up of being snapped by a speed camera, decided to take his revenge by driving into the post that it was attached to. Unfortunately, the post was stronger than expected, causing him to write off his motor.

Each of these incidents illustrates the importance of having adequate car, motorcycle or minibus insurance. After all, you can never predict when a reindeer might fall from the sky or an unhappy cow exacts her revenge.

The Minibus Club is a specialist minibus insurance provider and has offered UK minibus insurance quotes since 1997. Visit our website for minibus driving advice and to receive an online quote for minibus insurance. We will listen to every insurance claim, however bizarre it may be!

Minibus Driver Training Courses

2009-04-01T05:16:00.000-07:00

The Community Transport Association (CTA) is the lead UK body for voluntary and community transport. They oversee two minibus driver training schemes which are recognised by most insurance companies, MiDAS and CommunityDriver.

MiDAS

MiDAS (Minibus Driver Training Scheme) is a nationally recognised scheme organised by CTA for the assessment and training of minibus drivers. It was originally developed by Hampshire County Council and provides organisations with a standard to train their drivers to.

MiDAS is suitable not only for small organisations that operate one minibus but for larger companies operating a fleet of vehicles. CTA have appointed a number of training agents who can visit an organisation to assess and train the drivers. Or the training can be undertaken in house once a company representative has passed CAT's Driver Assessor/Trainers (DAT) assessment.

Areas that are covered in the MiDAS test include:

1. Minibus driving skills to an acceptable standard.
2. General defensive driving.
3. Driver's personal safety.
4. Passenger safety.
5. Roadside inspections.
6. Breakdown and accident procedures.
7. Legal requirements for drivers.
8. Disability awareness.
9. Use of passenger safety, access and storage equipment.
10. Passenger assistance.

As well as possible reductions on minibus insurance, the MiDAS test increases a driver's confidence, reducing their levels of stress. Passenger safety and comfort is improved. And the MiDAS certificate enhances a minibus organisation's image.

CommunityDriver

Changes to driving licence legislation on 1st January 1997 require all licences issued after this date to have D1 classification for driving a minibus.

To obtain a D1 licence a driver must pass a theory test, a hazard perception test and then undertake a full medical. The CommunityDriver scheme provides all that is needed to obtain the licence, including locally based trainers and learning materials. Tests are arranged at convenient locations for the driver.

A minibus can be driven on a category B (car) licence, without a D1 classification, but only if the following conditions are met:

1. The minibus is not being used for hire and reward.

2. The driving licence has been held for more than 2 years and the driver is over 21. Drivers over 70 must meet the health standards required for a D1 licence.

3. Payment cannot be accepted for driving the minibus.

4. The weight of the minibus must not exceed 3.5 tonnes. This limit is raised to 4.25 tonnes when special equipment for disabled passengers is being carried.

5. Trailers cannot be towed.

6. The minibus can only be driven in the UK.

Our website, www.minibusclub.co.uk, has more about minibus driver training. Evidence of training such as the MiDAS certificate may help get a discount on your minibus insurance..

Minibus Driving Advice

2009-04-01T05:13:00.000-07:00

Passenger safety is very important for a minibus driver. Ask everyone to fasten their seat belts. It is now law for seat belts to be used at all times by the driver and passengers. Children below 135cm in height need to wear a child restraint in addition to a seat belt.

Conduct an inspection of the minibus before setting out on a journey to ensure its road worthiness. It's important to check the lights and indicators are functioning correctly, tyres are in good condition and the brakes are in good working order.

Ensure luggage is securely stowed and all the exits are clear. When the minibus is moving, keep doors unlocked to enable a quick exit in an emergency.

It's advisable not to allow passengers to drink alcohol on a minibus. Alcohol is actually illegal on buses going to and from sporting fixtures. As a driver, be aware of the amount of alcohol you consume the night before driving. Alcohol may still be present in your blood the next day, which will affect your driving ability and fail a breathalyser test if stopped by the police.

There is now a requirement of all minibuses registered after 1st January 2005 to be fitted for with a speed limiter, restricting their maximum speed to 62 mph.

Speed limits for a minibus on UK roads are:

30 mph in urban and residential areas
50 mph on A class (single-carriageway) roads
60 mph on dual-carriageway roads
70 mph on motorways

The speed limit on motorways is reduced to 60 mph when towing a trailer and the fast lane should also not be used for overtaking.

Other issues a minibus driver should be aware of include:

1) A fire extinguisher and a first aid kit must be carried at all times.
2) Avoid using horns or reversing bleepers between 11.30 pm and 7.00 am.
3) Use the minibus' side lights if parking it on the street at night.

A minibus handles differently to a car. For the comfort of your passengers, drive carefully around bends and when braking. Stopping distance is greatly increased with a minibus. In good weather allow at least 4 seconds between you and the vehicle in front. Double this for wet conditions and add even further distance for icy roads.

Tiredness is one of the most common causes of minibus accidents. Remember to take plenty of breaks even if you do not feel tired. It is currently recommended to take a 20 minute break after 2 hours of driving.

Visit our website for more minibus driving advice and to receive a free online quote for minibus insurance.

Three Ways to Prevent Accidents When Driving a Minibus

2009-04-01T05:08:00.000-07:00

Nobody wants to be involved in a traffic accident, especially when you could be transporting up to 16 other people in a minibus.

Here are three ways of minimising the chance of an accident:

1. Be aware of other road users.

This may seem obvious but surprisingly this advice is often overlooked. Many road users are not as responsible as we would like them to be. For instance some drivers still feel the need to use their mobile telephone even though it is now against the law. If you are following a driver using a mobile phone give them extra space as there is a higher risk their actions may cause an accident.

If a motorist is driving to close to the back of your minibus don't react aggressively to their poor judgement. It is easy to get wound up by tailgating but if you can take a deep breath, stay calm and let the vehicle pass, your chances of being involved in an accident are greatly reduced.

2. Driver Training

The Community Transport Association (CTA) is the lead UK body for voluntary and community transport. They oversee two minibus driver training schemes, MiDAS and CommunityDriver, which are recognised by the majority of insurance providers.

MiDAS (Minibus Driver Training Scheme) covers all areas of driving a minibus safely. It is suitable for an individual or for companies that operate a fleet of vehicles. The test helps to increase a driver's confidence and passenger safety is improved.

The CommunityDriver scheme helps a minibus driver obtain a D1 licence. This is now required for all driving licences issued after 1st January 1997. To obtain a D1 licence a driver must pass a theory test, a hazard perception test and then undertake a full medical. The CommunityDriver scheme provides all that is needed to obtain the licence, including locally based trainers and learning materials. Tests are arranged at convenient locations for the driver.

Driver training will greatly reduce the risk of an accident. And evidence of such training may result in a discount on your minibus insurance.

3. Passenger Awareness

Transporting passengers is the main reason for driving a minibus. But in many instances their behaviour can be the cause of an accident.

Don't start chatting with any of the passengers. If a passenger comes up to the front of the minibus and tries to engage you in conversation, remind him or her that there is a safety issue.

Try to keep all passengers in their seats at all times. If passengers are moving about, or if there are more at one side of the vehicle than at the other, it can cause instability.

Ask passengers to fasten their seat belts. It is now law for seat belts to be used at all times by the driver and passengers. Children below 135cm in height need to wear a child restraint in addition to a seat belt.

If your minibus is fitted with a microphone do not use it while the vehicle is moving, unless in an emergency. It may seem perfectly normal to point out places of interest to your passengers but it will be a distraction that could cause an accident.

And don't allow passengers to drink alcohol on a minibus. Alcohol is actually illegal on buses going to and from sporting fixtures.

If you are unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident then the best advice is to stay calm. Losing your temper, however angry you may feel, will not help an already difficult situation. By taking a controlled approach to the situation you will help ensure your passengers' safety. And be sure to collect as much information at the scene as possible. It may help resolve any legal or minibus insurance issues that may follow.

Our website at Minibusclub.co.uk has more advice.

Advice for Driving to a European Ski Resort

2009-04-01T05:01:00.000-07:00

What are the regulations for driving a minibus in Europe?

A 'waybill' or an 'own account certificate' must be carried regardless of whether the minibus is being used for hire or reward. The MinibusClub.co.uk has more information about these documents.

Other documents that need to accompany the vehicle include a minibus insurance certificate, European accident form and Vehicle Registration document. A specialist minibus insurance provider will be able to advise whether a Green Card is also needed.

When driving in Europe a GB sticker or EU style GB sticker must be prominently displayed on the minibus at all times.

Visit our website at minibusclub.co.uk to get a free quote or call their hotline on 0845 609 0323. See how much you could save on your minibus insurance!

If you're travelling with friends and family there are obviously no fare paying passengers. Remember to tell your minibus insurance provider this as the journey will be classed as private and non-commercial. This makes a difference when your premium is calculated.

There are a number of essential documents, as well as the minibus insurance certificate, that the driver must carry when driving from the UK to a European destination. If you're travelling only within the European Union member states and the ASOR European Union signatory states, which includes Turkey, Norway and Switzerland, you'll need a "waybill" that acts as a "control document".

A Green Card, while not necessarily essential for the trip, will serve in the EU as recognised proof of your valid minibus insurance. It will also make any claims that may arise much easier to deal with. Remember that every country has its own local driving laws that you should be aware of. Your minibus insurance will depend on all local laws being observed.

For international journeys originating in the UK, the minibus insurance will depend on the driver complying with EU drivers' hours whether or not the driver is being paid. This means that a properly calibrated tachograph needs to be fitted to the minibus. Insurance claims are not likely to be honoured if the proper drivers' hours are not closely observed.

It is important to carry all the documentation required for the journey. The "waybill" has already been mentioned. If the minibus is owned by a member of the group and not hired, then an Own Account Certificate (OAC) is required. The vehicle registration document should also be carried along with a European accident form. Remember that the minibus will need to have a prominent GB sticker displayed.

Using a minibus to drive to a European ski resort from the UK is simple, cost-effective and fun for all concerned. However, for minibus insurance purposes, it is essential that you comply with the local laws and carry the correct documentation at all times.

Visit our website for more advice about driving to Europe and to receive a free online quote for minibus insurance.

Fequently Asked Questions about Driving a Minibus

2009-04-01T04:47:00.000-07:00

What is a minibus?

The classification for a minibus is a vehicle that has between 9 to 16 passenger seats. With more than16 passenger seats the vehicle is classed as a coach.

What is a Section 19 Minibus Permit?

If a minibus is being driven for hire or reward then a Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) licence is required. Certain organisations such as volunteer groups, whose activities are beneficial to a community, can apply for a Section 19 Permit. This allows a small charge to be made to cover the vehicles operating costs without the need of a PCV licence.

A driver of a Section 19 permit minibus can either be a volunteer or be paid. If the minibus is being used as a non-profit bus service a Section 22 permit can be applied for. However with this permit the driver must be a unpaid volunteer.

Minibuses used by schools and educational establishment that do not charge their pupils do not normally require a Section 19 permit.

Section 19 permits are only valid within the UK.

Do minibus passengers have to wear seatbelts?

Seatbelts requirements for minibuses vary according to the age of the vehicle, passenger carrying capacity, type of passengers (i.e children or wheelchair users) and type of seat fitted. A general rule is that if a minibus is fitted with seatbelts then they must be worn.

It is compulsory for a minibus driver to wear a seatbelt.

What are the Driving Licence requirements for a minibus?

Driving licences issued after the 1st January 1997 require a category D1 classification, which can be obtained by applying to the DVLA and passing a Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) test.

There are exemptions to this regulation that will allow a minibus to be driven with a full category B (car) licence, but the following conditions need to be met:

1. The minibus is used for a social purpose but not for hire and reward.

2. You must be over 21 and have held your Category B license for more than 2 years. If you are over 70 then you are required to meet the health standards for driving a D1 vehicle.

3. No payment can be accepted for driving the minibus.

4. The minibus cannot weigh more than 3.5 tonnes or 4.25 tonnes with special equipment for carrying disabled passengers.

5. Towing a trailer of any size is prohibited.

6. The minibus can only be driven in the UK. Driving in Europe will require a D1 licence.

What are the speed limits for driving a minibus?

Speed limits for a minibus on UK roads are:

30 mph in urban and residential areas
50 mph on A class (single-carriageway) roads
60 mph on dual-carriageway roads
70 mph on motorways

If the minibus is towing a trailer the speed limit on motorways is reduced to 60 mph and the fast lane cannot be used for overtaking.

Minibuses registered after 1st January 2005 must now be fitted for with a speed limiter, restricting their maximum speed to 62 mph.

What are the regulations for driving a minibus in Europe?

A 'waybill' or an 'own account certificate' must be carried regardless of whether the minibus is being used for hire or reward. The MinibusClub.co.uk has more information about these documents.

Other documents that need to accompany the vehicle include a minibus insurance certificate, European accident form and Vehicle Registration document. A specialist minibus insurance provider will be able to advise whether a Green Card is also needed.

When driving in Europe a GB sticker or EU style GB sticker must be prominently displayed on the minibus at all times.

Visit our website at minibusclub.co.uk to get a free quote or call their hotline on 0845 609 0323. See how much you could save on your minibus insurance!

A Guide to Charity Minibus Insurance

2009-03-21T15:38:00.000-07:00

Many charities rely on the versatility a minibus can provide in allowing them to take large numbers of passengers on journeys that may not have been easily achieved by using public transport.

A Section 19 or Section 22 permit will be required to show that the minibus is being used for charitable and non-profit activities.

Section 19 permits can be applied for by charities and volunteer groups whose activities are seen to be beneficial to a community. Profit making minibus operators will need a PCV/PSV licence.

Minibus drivers with a Section 19 permit can either be a volunteer or be paid. The permit also allows a small charge to be made to cover the vehicles operating costs.

A Section 22 permit can be applied for if the minibus is being used as a non-profit bus service. For this permit the driver must be an unpaid volunteer.

There are three types of minibus insurance available: Comprehensive, Third Party Fire and Theft, and Third Party Only.

Third Party is the minimum level of insurance cover as required by law. It will cover liability for death or injury to third parties, liability for damage to other people’s property and legal costs in connection to claims against your policy.

With Fire and Theft the minibus is covered for damage when stolen or by fire.

Comprehensive is the highest level of minibus insurance and will cover most of the possible risks. These may include providing medical expenses after an accident, replacing personal effects lost after a theft or accident, and insuring against damage to the minibus’s windows and windscreen.

Although it is the most expensive, Comprehensive is often the popular choice for charity minibus insurance. It is always better to be ‘safe than sorry’, especially as there is the extra responsibility of transporting passengers. Comprehensive insurance covers most risks and the Minibus Club will tailor the policy to your organisation's specific needs.

Other benefits included with charity minibus insurance from the Minibus Club are:

1) 24 hour/365 days freephone helpline.

2) Accident recovery facilities.

3) UK administration / call centres.

4) Optional breakdown and recovery assistance.

5) Optional uninsured loss recovery which includes cover for an appointed lawyer, legal costs up to £100,000 and vehicle hire costs if part of the claim agreed.

6) Instalment facilities.

7) Prompt documentation turnaround.

A minibus operator must have insurance by law. But with charity minibus insurance your organisation will benefit from lowest price available without leaving it vulnerable to the risk of an unexpected cost after an accident.

Visit our website to get a free quote for charity minibus insurance or call our hotline on 0845 609 0323. See how much you could save on your minibus insurance.

Taxi Minibus Insurance Advice

2009-03-21T15:24:00.000-07:00

Many taxi operators use a minibus or MPV as a taxi because of the adaptability of the vehicle to carry more passengers and extra luggage.

There are two types of taxi use: public or private hire. Public hire allows the taxi to be hailed by customers, who can then be picked up on the roadside. Private hire operators require the customer's journey to be arranged before they are picked up.

Insurance cover is compulsory by law. The minimum requirement is to cover a driver against injuries they might cause to other people and damage to their property. A taxi operator will require additional insurance for the "carriage of persons for hire or reward", irrespective of whether they are private or public hire.

The three types of minibus insurance available are:

Third Party
This is the minimum cover required by law. It covers injury to third parties and their property, and some legal costs.

Third Party Fire and Theft
The additional cover with this policy is for damage or loss of the taxi operator's minibus by fire and theft.

Comprehensive
The highest level of minibus insurance, covering damage to the vehicle after an accident irrespective of whether it was the policy holder's fault or not. Other cover may include new vehicle replacement, windscreen/window breakages, replacement locks, medical expenses and loss of personal effects.

Public liability can be included with the taxi minibus insurance policy. Public liability is required to satisfy local government requirements. A minibus taxi operator will need an indemnity limit of at least £5 million.

Another useful addition to a taxi minibus insurance policy is uninsured loss recovery. This will cover the cost of an appointed lawyer, legal costs up to £100,000 and vehicle hire costs if part of the claim is agreed.

Other benefits that a taxi operator should consider before choosing minibus insurance include:

a) A freephone helpline available 24 hours all year round.
b) Accident recovery facilities such as the AA.
c) A protected no claims bonus.
d) Option to pay by instalments
e) Prompt document turnaround

you need taxi minibus insurance then give us a call on 0845 609 0323. Or visit our website for a free taxi minibus insurance quote. The Minibus Club is a specialist minibus insurance provider and we have offered UK minibus insurance quotes since 1997.

Minibus Insurance Advice- Information to Collect After an Accident

2009-03-21T15:03:00.000-07:00

To help with any minibus insurance or legal claims that might follow an accident collect the following information:

1) Driver details Collect the names, addresses and telephone numbers of the other drivers involved in the accident. Try to obtain the name of their insurance company and policy number. If you have any suspicions that they may not be telling the truth, it is worth noting a short description of the driver and any distinguishing features.

It is the law that drivers exchange details after an accident. If a driver fails to stop or refuses to give their details, notify the police immediately.

It is advisable to keep details of your minibus insurance in your vehicle to give to the other drivers.

2) Vehicle details Gather as much information about the vehicles involved as possible. This will include registration, make, model, colour and any modifications that have been made to the vehicles.

3) Time and date of the incident

4) Driving conditions Note what the weather was at the time of the accident. Include information about visibility and road condition.

If it was dark record details of the lighting conditions including street lighting.

5) Damage Make a detailed record of the damage to your minibus and to the other vehicles involved.

6) Injuries Gather information about the injuries to your minibus passengers and anyone other persons involved in the accident. This may include pedestrians.

If a dog or farm animal has been injured you are required by law to report the incident to the police. This does not apply to cats or wild animals but check the animal is not injured or suffering.

7) Emergency Services Record any details of the emergency services attending the scene. Request an accident report number from the attending police services.

8) Accident Scene Take a photograph of the accident scene and draw a sketch of the vehicles positioning prior to and after the incident.

Make a note of the road type and any significant road markings, signs or obstructions such as a skip.

Record the estimated speed of the vehicles involved and whether headlights or indicators were being used.

You may not be able to record all this information at the time of the accident. In this case return to the scene as soon as possible, while the incident is still fresh in your memory.

Being involved in an accident is a stressful situation. But by staying calm and recording as much information as possible, it will assist your minibus insurance provider with any claims or legal disputes that may follow. To gather this information it is helpful to carry a pen, paper and disposable camera with you in your minibus.

Remember to inform your minibus insurance provider as soon as possible. At the Minibus Club we have advisors available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to assist you with your claim.

A Guide to Minibus Passenger Care

2009-03-21T13:43:00.000-07:00

To provide the best possible service for your minibus passengers, consider the following points:

1. Ensure the minibus is roadworthy. As the driver of a minibus you are responsible for its condition when it's on the road although the operator may also be responsible for permitting its use in a defective state.

Even if the vehicle has just returned from being serviced the responsibility for its use remains with you and operator. Apart from anything else failure to maintain a minibus' roadworthiness may invalidate your minibus insurance.

2. Plan a journey before setting out to avoid adding extra journey time by getting lost. Consider your passenger's needs by factoring in adequate rest stops.

3. If you are transporting children you cannot be responsible for supervising their behaviour and also concentrate on driving the minibus. Take a passenger assistant with you, preferably someone who the children know.

It's useful if the assistant has the correct licence and training to drive a minibus if for any reason you are unable to continue with the journey.

4. Brief your passengers before commencing the journey. Tell them how long the journey will be and when you'll be taking any rest stops.

Advise the passengers of the safety issues including the dangers of boisterous behaviour, especially if they are children.

5. Ensure all passengers have a seat and seatbelts are worn if fitted. In case of emergency every seated passenger must have access to two exits at all times. Make sure luggage is not obstructing the aisle.

6. The minibus must be able to accommodate passengers with mobility difficulties. Wheelchairs can face forward or backwards, but not sideways.

Passengers may have other needs which could include mental, emotional, medical, behavioural or learning difficulties. As the driver it is important that you or your passenger's assistant are aware of these needs and are able to assist the passenger if required.

7. Before starting the journey check that all luggage and equipment is stored securely. Check the minibus doors are closed but not locked. Ensure the aisle and exits are free from obstruction.

8. Places where passengers are picked up and dropped off should be planned in advance of the journey. Consideration must be given to the safety of the passengers while waiting to be picked up, and when boarding and exiting the minibus.

If you are a regular minibus driver take a driver training course, such as the MiDAS (Minibus Driver Training Scheme) organised by the Community Transport Association (CTA). This will cover all aspects of passenger care and gives guidance on what to do in the event of an emergency or passenger illness.

Our website has more advice about driving a minibus and minibus insurance. If you need charity minibus insurance, visit JustCharityInsurance.co.uk for a free quote.

Using a Minibus as a Family Car- 5 Things You Need To Know

2009-03-21T12:32:00.001-07:00

1) Definition of a Minibus

MPV’s and People Carriers can have 7 or 8 seats but this does not class them as a minibus. It's an important distinction as it may affect your minibus insurance and driving licence requirements.

The classification for a minibus is a vehicle that has between 9 to 16 passenger seats. Any more seats then the vehicle you're driving is as a coach!

2) Driving Licence Requirements

Driving licences issued after the 1st January 1997 require a category D1 classification, which can be obtained by applying to the DVLA and passing a Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) test.

As the minibus is a family vehicle and not being used commercially, there are exemptions to this regulation that will allow it to be driven with a full category B (car) licence, but only if the following conditions are met:

1. The minibus is used as a family vehicle but not for hire and reward.

2. You must be over 21 and have held your Category B license for more than 2 years. If you are over 70 then you are required to meet the health standards for driving a D1 vehicle.

3. No payment can be accepted for driving the minibus.

4. The minibus cannot weigh more than 3.5 tonnes or 4.25 tonnes with special equipment for carrying disabled passengers.

5. Towing a trailer of any size is prohibited.

6. The minibus can only be driven in the UK. Driving in Europe will require a D1 licence.

3) Driving in Europe

A 'waybill' or an 'own account certificate' may be needed regardless of whether the minibus is being used a family vehicle or for hire or reward.

Other documents that should be kept in the vehicle include a minibus insurance certificate, European accident form and Vehicle Registration document. A specialist minibus insurance provider will be able to advise whether a Green Card is also needed.

When driving in Europe a GB sticker or EU style GB sticker must be prominently displayed on the minibus at all times.

A tachograph may be required for international journeys starting from the UK as the driver must comply with EU ‘drivers’ hours’ regulations.

Check out all rules and regulations before driving to any international country. The International Road Freight Office, embassies and tourist information offices can provide you with the necessary advice.

4) Driving in the UK

Speed limits for a minibus on UK roads are:

30 mph in urban and residential areas
50 mph on A class (single-carriageway) roads
60 mph on dual-carriageway roads
70 mph on motorways

The speed limit on motorways is reduced to 60 mph when towing a trailer and the fast lane cannot be used for overtaking.

Other issues a minibus driver should be aware of include:

a) A fire extinguisher and a first aid kit must be carried at all times.

b) Avoid using horns or reversing bleepers between 11.30 pm and 7.00 am.

c) Use the minibus' side lights if parking it on the street at night.

Remember that a minibus handles differently to a car. For the comfort of your passengers, drive carefully around bends and when braking.

Stopping distance is greatly increased with a minibus. In good weather allow at least 4 seconds between you and the vehicle in front. Double this distance for wet conditions and add even further distance for icy roads.

5) Minibus Insurance

As with a car, minibus insurance is required by law. The three types of insurance available are:

Third Party This is the minimum cover required by law. It covers injury to third parties and their property, and some legal costs.

Third Party Fire and Theft The additional cover with this policy is for damage or loss of the taxi operator's minibus by fire and theft.

Comprehensive The highest level of minibus insurance, covering damage to the vehicle after an accident irrespective of whether it was the policy holder's fault or not. Other cover may include new vehicle replacement, windscreen/window breakages, replacement locks, medical expenses and loss of personal effects.

To avoid paying too much for minibus insurance, give the Minibus Club a call on 0845 609 0323 for a free quote. We will tailor a policy to your specific requirements. Our advisors are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help if you've had an accident, breakdown or need any questions answering.

Choosing the Right Minibus Insurance Policy

2009-03-21T12:24:00.000-07:00

Not every person or organisation owns a minibus for the same purpose.

Five different types of minibus insurance are:

1) MPV Insurance

More commercial operators are now using MPV's for carrying passengers because of their versatility, comfort and the ease that the vehicle can be adapted to satisfy the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act.

Examples of MPV use include education, nursing homes or for employee transport. A competitive MPV insurance policy will be tailored to the needs of the organisation.

2) Taxi Insurance

Many taxi operators use a minibus or MPV as a taxi because of the adaptability of the vehicle to carry more passengers and extra luggage.

Two types of taxi use are public and private hire. Public hire allows the taxi to be hailed by customers, who can then be picked up on the roadside. Private hire operators require the customer's journey to be arranged before they are picked up. A taxi operator will require additional insurance for the "carriage of persons for hire or reward", irrespective of whether they are private or public hire.

Public liability can be included with a taxi minibus insurance policy. It is needed to comply with local government requirements. A minibus taxi operator must have an indemnity limit of at least £5 million.

3) Family Minibus Insurance

Not all minibuses are used by commercial organisations. An increasing number of people recognise that a minibus can be a very versatile vehicle particularly when they have a large family who all like to travel together. There are minibus insurance packages specifically designed to cater for this type of use.

With this type of policy it is important to remember that the minibus can only be used for social, domestic and pleasure purposes. If there is any element of hire or reward in using the vehicle or it is used for commercial purposes then cover under this policy would not be applicable.

4) Charity Insurance

There are thousands of charitable organisations in the UK who use minibuses. Many charity groups rely on the versatility a minibus can provide in allowing them to take large numbers of passengers on journeys that may not have been easily achieved by using public transport.

A good minibus insurance provider will offer charity minibus insurance for non-profit making organisations to keep their vehicle running costs to a minimum. But a Section 19 or Section 22 permit will be required to prove to the insurance provider that the minibus is being used for charitable and non-profit activities.

5) Fleet Insurance

Large organisations may have more than one vehicle that needs insuring. Fleet insurance covers all vehicles under one policy regardless of their make or model, with no upper limit on fleet size.

It is the most economical way to insure more than one minibus. And it reduces the time and paperwork involved with insuring each vehicle separately.

Whatever your needs The Minibus Club can tailor a minibus insurance policy to suit your requirements. Visit our website for a FREE quotation.

Five Essential Checks before Driving a Minibus

2009-03-21T12:01:00.000-07:00

It is now a legal requirement for a minibus driver to check the vehicle is safe to drive, even if the minibus has just returned from being serviced. Five simple checks that should be made before any journey:

1. Tyres

Tread depth must be a minimum of 1.6mm. This is a legal requirement and applies to the entire circumference of the tyre.

Most tyres have a wear indicator built into the tread. Look for a horizontal bar of rubber located between the tread patterns, at a depth of 2mm. Ideally minibus tyres should have at least 3mm of tread.

Check the condition of the tyre. Look for any unusual bulges or lumps as these are often a sign of internal damage. If there is any cracking or crazing on the sidewalls of the tyres then they should be replaced rather than risking a blowout.

Ensure the tyres are inflated to the manufacturers recommended pressure, and do not forget to check the spare tyre.

2. Windscreen

Check the windscreen for any chips or cracks. Chipped windscreens can be repaired. If not there is a risk that the windscreen will shatter just by going over a bump in the road.

Ensure the windscreen wipers are in good working order and their rubber blades have not deteriorated. And keep the windscreen washer fluid topped up, especially in winter.

3. Mirrors

Check all the mirrors. Make sure they are clean and have good visibility. If necessary adjust the mirrors to their correct positions. Replace any cracked mirrors at the earliest opportunity.

4. Lights

Check all the lights are clean and working correctly. Always carry spare bulbs and fuses in case they are required on the journey.

5. Fuel

Check you have enough fuel to get the minibus to its destination. As obvious as this may seem one of the main reasons why roadside recovery is called out to assist a motorist is because a vehicle has run out of fuel".

Running out of fuel will not only inconvenience the minibus passengers but may cause damage to the vehicle's engine.

These checks are not a substitute for having the minibus serviced by a qualified garage at least once a year. Safety checks must be made on essential items such as brakes, steering and suspension.

For more advice contact the The Minibus Club.

Ten Tips to Cut the Cost of Minibus Insurance

2009-03-21T11:49:00.000-07:00

1. Reduce the number of people who can drive.
Money will be saved by reducing the number of named drivers on your policy. It is simple and more cost effective to arrange temporary cover for an extra driver as and when you need it, rather than insuring them the whole year.

Younger named drivers may prove more expensive to insure, even though the minimum age to drive a minibus is 21.

2. Drive safely.
By keeping the minibus in good condition and driving carefully, the risk of an accident is significantly reduced. This in turn will build your no claims bonus and could save up to 70% on your insurance premium over 5 years.

3. Park off the road at night.
Park the minibus in a garage or on a private drive at night. If neither of these are available find a secure, well lit area to leave the vehicle.

4. Avoid distractions when driving.
Don't talk to passengers, be tempted to use a mobile phone or communicate using an onboard microphone while driving. These are all distractions that will increase the risk of an accident.

5. Pay annually.
Paying monthly will often incur interest charges. Avoid these charges by paying for the minibus insurance upfront.

6. Avoid making small claims.
If the cost of repair after an accident is only a little more than the insurance's excess it may not be worth making a claim as you will lose the no claims discount.

7. Don't speed.
A minibus driver with two or more convictions for speeding can see their insurance premium rise by over 25%.

8. Don't pay for cover you don't need.
Avoid paying for extra insurance that you don't need. If your minibus is valued a less than £2,000 Third Party Fire and Theft may be more suitable than the more expensive Comprehensive insurance.

9. Take a driving course
A minibus driver may be entitled to a discount on their minibus insurance if they have successfully completed a driving course. A recognised course is the Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme (MIDAS).

10. Use a specialist insurance provider
A specialist minibus insurance provider, like The Minibus Club, will tailor the policy to your specific requirements, ensuring you have the right amount of cover at the right price. Find a provider than has no admin charges and can offer assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

If you'd like to save money on your minibus insurance, look no further than The Minibus Club. Request a FREE quote now by calling our hotline on 0845 609 0323 or visit our website at http://www.minibusclub.co.uk/.

Ten Tips for Buying a Second Hand Minibus

2009-03-21T11:41:00.000-07:00

Focus your search by making a list of your minibus requirements and divide the list into two categories; desirable and essential.

If you find the right vehicle then here are ten other tips:

1) Check the vehicle bodywork. Look for any signs of repair which may indicate the vehicle has been in an accident. Inspect under the wheel arches, suspension struts and along the door frames for any evidence of rust.

2) Check the engine's oil using the dipstick. If it's golden and relatively clean then the vehicle has been well looked after. Black, tar-like oil indicates it hasn't been changed for long time. Look underneath the vehicle, checking the engine, drive shaft and gearbox for any signs of leaking fluid.

3) Inspect the interior of the minibus. Look under the seats and carpets for any sign of corrosion.

4) Check the minibus tyres. Look for any signs of unusual wear as this may indicate a problem with the suspension. Any unusual bulges or lumps in the tyres are often a sign of internal damage. Inspect the tyres' sidewall rubber for sign of cracking. Crazing and cracking usually becomes evident on tyres that are more than five years old. Ensure the minibus tyres have a tread depth of at least 3mm. Any less and they will soon need to be replaced.

5) When purchasing a second hand minibus keep in mind the cost of making alterations. Adding wheelchair access facilities can cost more than the vehicle's purchase price.

6) Before completing a purchase confirm the Vehicle Identity Number (VIN) matches the 17-digit number printed on the vehicle's registration document. The VIN number can be found on the minibus's engine, at the base of the windscreen or on the driver's door.

7) Pay particular attention to the mileage on a second hand minibus to avoid buying a clocked vehicle. 'Clocking' is term applied to the illegal practice of winding back a vehicle's mileage counter. A shiny, worn steering wheel on a minibus with low mileage is often a giveaway. Also check that the dashboard has not been tampered with.

8) If the minibus has an accessible lift fitted then it should be manufactured to British Standards (BS) 6109 and have a safe working load (SWL) of 300kg. The lift will also need to conform to the 1998 Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment regulations.

9) As the minibus may have been manufactured before the new minibus safety and seatbelt legislation was brought in, check it complies with the relevant regulations.

10) Take the minibus for a test drive. Check the brakes, clutch, accelerator, gear stick and steering. Make sure all the electrical equipment works correctly.

When you've found a minibus that meets all your requirements, give us a call on 0845 609 0323 to find the best deal for your minibus insurance

Minibus Insurance Explained

2009-03-21T10:43:00.000-07:00

1. The Law Every vehicle in the UK must have insurance.

The minimum level of cover is third party.

If the minibus is being used as a taxi then you will require additional insurance for the "carriage of persons for hire or reward". Public liability can be included with taxi minibus insurance to comply with local government requirements. A minibus taxi operator must have an indemnity limit of at least £5 million.

2. Levels of Insurance

The three levels of insurance are Comprehensive, Third Party Fire and Theft, and Third Party Only.

Third Party will cover for injury to others and damage to their property in connection with the use of your vehicle.

By adding Fire and Theft the minibus is covered if damaged when stolen or being involved in a fire.

Comprehensive is the highest level of minibus insurance and will cover most foreseeable risks.

Each level of insurance can have certain ‘add ons’, depending on the minibus’s use. The most popular is 'legal protection insurance'.

3. Types of Insurance

Five types of insurance include:

a) MPV

b) Taxi

c) Charity

d) Family

e) Fleet

MPV insurance is used by commercial operators such as nursing homes and education establishments. Fleet insurance is popular with larger organisations that operate more than one vehicle.

4. Driving Abroad

When driving in Europe a 'green card' provides the same level of minibus insurance as in the UK for a maximum of 90 days.

Travelling within EU member states and ASOR signatory states (Norway, Switzerland, Turkey and some Eastern European Countries) requires a control document in the form of a ‘waybill’ or an ‘own account certificate’.

Other documentation that should be carried on the vehicle at all times includes the minibus insurance certificate, European accident form and a vehicle registration document.

If you'd like to save money on your minibus insurance, look no further than The Minibus Club. Request a FREE quote now by calling our hotline on 0845 609 0323 or visit our website at http://www.minibusclub.co.uk/

Carrying Other People’s Children Safely

2008-06-09T08:34:00.000-07:00

The RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) has a useful section dedicated to carrying other people’s children safely. Many educational groups, charities and commercial drivers transport groups of children in a minibus.

In small buses, up to 2,540 kg unladen weight (these are usually minibuses), children over 3 years old must wear seat belts, or use child restraints, if available.

On larger buses and coaches, all seated passengers aged 14 years and above must wear seat belts if they are fitted. The driver (or a conductor or similar person) must notify passengers when they board that they have to wear their belts and/or signs must be displayed at every seat. Regulations to require children aged 3 years to 13 years to use seat belts will follow as soon as possible.

Operators are not required to provide child restraints, but if they are available and if they can be fitted properly, they must be used. When booking a minibus, bus or coach, make sure it has seat belts and ask whether child restraints can be provided or whether you can use your own. But be aware that it may not be possible to fit them properly because the seats and seat belts are different from cars. In some of these vehicles it is possible to adjust the height of the seat belt so that they fit child passengers better.

For more information on Minibus Safety and Carrying Children in a Minibus, visit http://www.rospa.co.uk/roadsafety/carryingchildren/index.htm.

Minibus Insurance http://www.minibusclub.co.uk/

2008-06-06T03:44:00.000-07:00

A new minibus powered by green technologies has been launched on World Environment Day.

It’s called the “tribrid” bus because it’s powered by three different environmentally friendly technologies- hydrogen fuel cells, batteries and ultra-capacitors. The clever vehicle switches between power sources automatically, selecting the right one for any given situation.

The minibus was developed by the University of Glamorgan and funded by the Energy Savings Trust. It will serve students at three different campuses as well as linking with the university’s hydrogen research centre at Baglan Energy Park .

It’s expected to go on sale for between £90,000 and £95,000.

Visit http://www.minibusclub.co.uk for minibus insurance

Dust down and spruce up your minibus!

2008-04-02T08:45:00.000-07:00

As summer approaches and outings and camps beckon, it’s time to dust down and spruce up your minibus.

But is your minibus roadworthy?
And are you compliant with all the latest rules and regulations?
Last but not least, what about minibus insurance cover?

Does your insurance cover give you the peace of mind that in the event of a breakdown you can sit back and let the professionals take over? Or do you visualise a scene with a broken minibus, scores of kids and a few stressed leaders? Unsure? then look no further than the Minibus Club which has provided specialist minibus insurance to thousands of customers for over 10 years. The Minibus Club has the experience and expertise to guide you through the technical knowledge and ultimately develop a tailored package to suit your needs.

With a sigh of relief, open the brochures and start planning your holiday safe with the knowledge that help is there for you 24hrs /365 days.

For more information on the Minibus Club or for an online Minibus insurance quotation visit www.minibusclub.co.uk