If you're aged 17-21, it's likely that your search for affordable young driver car
insurance is both frustrating and difficult, with many car insurance companies now refusing
to offer quotes to young and inexperienced drivers. If this is you, read on to find out
what can you do to get a better car insurance deal.
Young drivers are hit hard on car insurance costs for three broad reasons - inexperience,
reputation and risk.
Experience is a crucial factor - the more time you spend on the road the better your
driving is likely to be. Additionally, drivers with more experience have a 'proven'
track record if they stay free of convictions and accidents. Experienced drivers can also
build up a
no-claims bonus
as a reward for careful driving.
Unfortunately young drivers' reputations often supersede them. In 2008, statistics from
the Association of British Insurers revealed that the UK's 18-year-olds alone cause
50 collisions a day - three times more than drivers in their fifties. Indeed male drivers
under the age of 21 are ten times more likely to be involved in a motoring accident than
drivers over the age of 30.
Car insurance premiums are based on risk and statistically young drivers have more accidents.
They are also more prone to security issues such as theft and vandalism as crime rates are
higher among young people.
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Typically, if you are a young driver then you will always face higher car insurance premiums,
but with some forward planning there are tactics you can use to reduce your risk and lower your
car insurance premium.
-
Pick your car carefully - Opt for a car with a smaller engine that fits
into a low insurance group
-
Avoid modifications - Alloy wheels, body kits and performance upgrades make
vehicles more desirable for thieves and vandals.
Modified cars
also tend to be more expensive to fix than their unmodified counterparts.
-
Limit your mileage - If you only drive at set times of the year (perhaps
during term time) then let your insurance company know. To lower your risk of an accident, avoid
peak travel times such as the commuter rush hour and limit your annual mileage - the more
time you spend on the road the more chance you have of being involved in a crash.
-
Agree a curfew - Some insurance companies may reduce premiums if you agree
to limit your driving to certain hours of the day.
-
Obtain a Pass Plus certificate - A Pass Plus course will typically cost
around £100 but if taken immediately after you pass your test it can cut premiums by 35%.
-
Improve security - Consider enhancing your vehicle's security. Fit an
immobiliser or tracker, a car alarms or use handbrake or steering wheel locks. If you have alloy
wheels, invest in a locking wheel nut.
-
Park with care - Put your car in a garage overnight. If that isn't possible
park off the highway to lower your risk of theft, vandalism and accidental damage.
-
Increase your voluntary excess - A higher voluntary excess will reduce your
premiums but remember to keep it at a level you can afford, should an accident occur.
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The easiest way to reduce your car insurance cost is to build up your reputation as a driver -
so stay conviction free, avoid speeding and build up a no-claims discount.
If you can afford to, pay for your car insurance annually rather than monthly to avoid interest
charges and also think about the level of car insurance you need. If your car is worth a few
hundred pounds, consider whether you really need comprehensive cover or whether third party,
fire and theft will suffice. Some car insurance companies charge extra for a courtesy car and
legal protection etc, so think carefully about which policy benefits you need.
Being added to your parent's policy as a named driver can put you on the right road but parents
who 'front' policies just to get their children cheaper car insurance risk having their
policies cancelled and any claims rejected.
Above all remember to compare as many quotes as possible - and always use our special 5 star
rating system to find a policy that accurately matches your requirements. Whilst the price of
your policy is important, don't forget that the quality of your cover is paramount in the
event that you need to make a claim.
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