New Driver Car Insurance

New Driver & New Insurance

New drivers often face higher insurance premiums due to the perceived risk associated with their lack of driving experience. However, with a bit of knowledge and careful comparison, it’s possible to find more affordable and suitable car insurance policies. Here’s a few things to think about to help you compare new driver car insurance in the UK.

1. Understand Why Premiums Are Higher for New Drivers:

Insurers base their premiums on risk. Statistically, new drivers, particularly those aged 17-24, are more likely to be involved in accidents. As a result, insurers offset this risk by charging higher premiums. By understanding this, you can better appreciate the importance of shopping around and finding ways to lower your perceived risk.

2. Consider a Telematics Policy (Black Box Insurance):

Telematics policies involve placing a ‘black box’ device in your car, which monitors your driving behaviour. This includes factors like speed, cornering, and braking patterns. If you consistently demonstrate safe driving habits, you could be rewarded with lower premiums. It’s an excellent option for responsible new drivers to prove they’re low risk.

3. Opt for a Higher Excess:

The excess is the amount you’ll pay towards any claim you make. By opting for a higher excess, you might reduce your premium. However, always ensure the excess is affordable, as you’ll need to pay this amount should you need to claim.

5. Limit Optional Extras:

While additions like breakdown cover or legal protection can be beneficial, they also increase the overall cost. If certain extras aren’t essential for you, consider excluding them to reduce your premium.

6. Take Advantage of Discounts:

Many insurers offer discounts for taking advanced driving courses like the Pass Plus scheme or ‘RoSPA Advanced Drivers and Riders’ test. These courses can improve your driving skills and make you a safer driver, thereby potentially reducing your premium.

7. Consider Adding a Named Driver:

Adding an experienced driver, like a parent or partner, to your policy can reduce the cost. However, ensure you’re still the main driver. Using someone else as the main driver when you’re driving the car most frequently, known as “fronting”, is illegal and can invalidate your insurance.

8. Shop Around:

Prices can vary significantly between providers. Use comparison services to get a broad view of the market. Also see if they offer any new driver-specific deals or discounts. Remember, the cheapest policy might not always offer the best coverage, so always read the policy details.

9. Check Policy Details Carefully:

When comparing policies, look beyond just the price. Ensure you understand the coverage provided, any exclusions, and the terms of any added benefits or services.

10. Consider Pay-as-you-Go Insurance:

Some insurers offer policies where you pay per mile you drive. If you’re not driving frequently or covering many miles, this could be a cost-effective solution.

11. Secure Your Car:

Investing in security measures, such as an approved alarm system or immobiliser, can sometimes reduce your premium. Parking in a secure location like a locked garage can also help.

12. Type Of Vehicle:

Cars are categorised into insurance groups, with group 1 being the cheapest to insure and group 50 the most expensive. As a new driver, consider cars in lower insurance groups. These tend to be smaller, less powerful vehicles.

Time to Compare

While new drivers in the UK often face steeper insurance premiums, being informed and proactive can make a considerable difference. We know that quotes provided a few weeks prior to the start date come in less than those that require cover immediately. By understanding the factors that impact your premium and comparing policies diligently, you can find a policy that offers the best balance of cost and coverage.