As lockdown restrictions tighten across Scotland, drivers are being advised not to make any non-essential journeys.
At present anybody caught doing so in England could be hit with a £200 fine.
But now according to the Mirror, making a non-essential car journey during lockdown could also invalidate car insurance.
Florence Codjoe, of website Uswitch.com, said: “You could end up paying thousands for repairs.
"If you’re unsure about cover during lockdown speak to your insurer for clarification.”
She also warned drivers not to cancel insurance unless they have off-street parking.
It’s illegal to park on the road without it. The on-the-spot £200 fines halve if paid within 14 days but double for repeat offenders, up to £6,400.
Specialist motoring lawyer Nick Freeman - known as Mr Loophole for helping celeb clients facing driving charges - said: “Essential travel is largely defined as shopping for necessities, picking up medical supplies, caring for a vulnerable person and getting to and from work if you cannot do so from home.”
He added: “Anything else is not really acceptable. If you have an accident and can’t prove your journey was essential your insurance may be void.”
While John Neill, of Castle Insurance Services, said: “If it’s a non-essential journey and being used outside the terms of the policy then there may be grounds for an insurer to reject a claim.”
