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Whilst getting out and exploring the British countryside in our 4x4s may have been put on hold for part of this year, there is still plenty to look forward to for the remainder of 2020 and onwards!

Whether you prefer your voyages to be muddy, fast paced and full of action or to simply admire the countryside, off the beaten track, below is a guide to help you get the best experience from your prized off-roader.

1. Green-Laning Cover

   Green-laning, for many, goes hand in hand with 4x4 ownership and, even better for novice owners, no modifications are needed! Green Lanes are public access routes and vehicular rights of way which are largely unsurfaced roads or forest tracks. Due to its less rigorous nature and lack of demands on your vehicle, your insurer is more likely to offer you cover; so why not visit the Green-Lane Association website (GLASS) for updates and recommendations in England and Wales following recent guidance from the government and see how much fun you can have.

2. Playdays

   Playdays are dedicated off-road sites, where for a small fee, you can take your 4x4 and test your driving skills as well as the vehicle’s strength. Not all insurers offer cover as they can be challenging and wearing on the 4x4. Always check with your insurer but if they can’t provide cover you should be able to buy one off cover on the day at the site.

3. Trialing

   Hard-core off-roading is for those with a seriously competitive streak! The aim is to complete the course in the quickest time without receiving penalties for touching any objects such as trees or stopping forward motion. Vehicles are heavily modified as the terrain is exceptionally rugged with steep hillsides and water features being common. Most events are held under Motorsport UK regulations and you will probably not be able to arrange cover with a standard 4x4 policy but may instead require motorsport insurance.

4. Other forms of Off-Roading

   There are many other forms off-roading such as ‘Rock Crawling’ and ‘Dune Bashing’ and for those who are more adventurous, there are ‘Expeditions’ which are long distance challenges crossing different countries and terrains. ‘Expeditions’ also require significant preparation due to the unpredictability of the challenges that lay ahead. Rest assured, whatever type you wish to try, there is something available to cater for it.

5. 4x4 Community Response
   During the pandemic, we’ve heard great stories about enthusiasts volunteering with their 4x4s, from delivering food packages to transporting much needed medical supplies. The whole community has come together in a time of need!
   
   To help with more long term support the Community Response, also known as Non-Blue Light Response, are groups set up throughout the country who volunteer their time and vehicles to help out in a crisis. Whether it’s going out in your 4x4 in bad weather, moving an obstructing tree or attending events to pull cars out of the mud, there are clubs to cover a range of activities. A number of policies which Lancaster may arrange can include cover for you to provide this vital service.

6. Modifications

   For some, no 4x4 would be complete without a long list of modifications. Whether it is cosmetic upgrades, such as chequer plating or spot lights or a full-blown off-roader with raised suspension, bob-tail and winches, we love them all. Specialist 4x4 insurers’ love modified off-roaders and in some cases won’t offer a quote unless they have been ‘tinkered with’! 

7. 4x4 Clubs

   What better way to share your enthusiasm for off-roading than to join a 4x4 club and meet like-minded individuals. Whether you like getting muddy, camping or purely meeting up to chat about your latest modification, there’s a club for you. Not only do you get all the fun aspects but your insurer can provide a discounted premium for being a member too. In a lot of cases the discount can be the equivalent cost of joining a club for the year, so it’s win win!

8. 4x4 Theft

   Unfortunately in today’s society, 4x4 theft is rife, with off-roaders at the top end of the market frequently stolen to order and some taken purely for their parts. It’s worth speaking to your broker to understand the many ways you can safeguard your vehicle, including getting additional security for your 4x4 and keeping it garaged; you could also join a 4x4 Theft Watch group.

The above insurance benefits are just a few that are available to 4X4 enthusiasts but we recommend checking with your insurer to confirm your exact levels of cover.  If you would like a quote on your vehicle/vehicles, please contact Lancaster Insurance on 01480 484826 or go online to www.lancasterinsurance.co.uk