Finding the right Car insurance policy can seem quite daunting, but we have some information to help make it simple.
Car insurance is a legal requirement
Every motorist is required by law to have insurance for their vehicle, providing cover for you and other named drivers in the event of driving-related damage or injury.
The only exception would be if the vehicle is registered as off road with a Statutory Off Road Notice (SORN).
Filling in your application
You're responsible for answering any questions relating to your application honestly. If the information is found to be incorrect it could invalidate your insurance and your insurer may not pay out for any claims you make.
Always make sure that the policy you're applying for has the right level of cover and features that you require.
Factors affecting your car insurance premium
Car
Insurers will take into account many different factors when calculating your car insurance premium. These will include:
Vehicle type: If you have an expensive car or a high-performance vehicle, you'll probably be in a high insurance group and may have to pay more for your premium.
Age: Younger drivers will usually have to pay more for insurance, as statistically they're more likely to make a claim.
Occupation: Particular jobs could raise premiums, such as chefs or journalists.
Use of vehicle: How often you use your car, your mileage and when you travel could have an effect on how much you pay. Travelling within busy peak times can bump up your premium, too.
Driving history: Prior convictions can affect the price of your insurance.
Voluntary excess: Opting for a higher voluntary excess (the amount you pay in the event of a claim) could lower your premium.
Where you live: If your house is in an area where statistically vehicle crime is high, this could have an impact on your insurance.
and more...
Types of policy
ReplyDeleteThere are four main different types of car insurance:
Telematics
Telematics policies have made great strides into the market in recent years, using a black box or mobile phone app to calculate your premium based on the standard and nature of your driving.
Third party only (TPO)
Third party only is the minimum level cover required by law in the UK. It covers:
Liability for injury to others (including passengers)
Damage to third party property
Liability whilst towing a caravan or trailer
Third party, fire and theft (TPFT)
For any changes that you want to make to your policy, such as your address or to add another driver, you must inform your insurance company
Third party, fire and theft covers everything that third party does, but also:
Fire damage
Theft of vehicle
Damage to your car caused during theft