20 Simple Tips For Saving on Car Insurance
The chances are you’ve probably been doing car insurance the wrong way, for years. It’s easy to just renew with your existing provider and accept what they tell you. But there are loads of ways that you can save money on your yearly policy. Here they are 20 of them, courtesy of FindInsuranceNI.co.uk.
- Leave it alone! – Making fancy modifications to your car may push your premium higher, so while a jacuzzi in the back may fit in with your lifestyle, you’ll pay the price in insurance!
- Get online – search the internet for discounts. It is often cheaper for the insurer to process an online application.
- Walk sometimes – Statistically you are less likely to be involved in an accident if you don’t drive very far. Less mileage will mean a lower premium.
- Don’t fight the law – Penalty points on your licence will send your premium skywards. Obey the rules and avoid the wrath of the speed cameras!
- Get a garage – Where you park your car at night will have an impact on your insurance costs. Avoid on street parking where possible.
- Be a bit excessive – Raising your excess could lower your premium. Be realistic and choose an excess that you could afford to pay if involved in an accident.
- Pay upfront – Monthly instalments can end up costing you more when the interest is added on. Many insurers discount the yearly cost if you pay in one or two installments, as opposed to a monthly fee.
- Lock it up – Make your car the least attractive option for thieves in your street. Immobilisers, alarm systems and steering wheel locks will make your insurers happy.
- Keep it simple – If you don’t need the extra frills on your policy then don’t get them. Are you sure the legal cover and luxury courtesy car are really necessary? Chat with your insurer to make sure you are aware of any extras you are paying for.
- Go back to school – Taking part in reputable courses that enhance your driving ability could make you a safer bet for insurance companies.
- Tracker device – Not just for spy films. A tracker device on your car can also help to reduce costs.
- Opportunity knocks with a black box – Some insurers offer black box policies where they can monitor how you drive and reduce your premium accordingly if you are a careful driver. Ask them!
- Get the right policy – Choose between Fully Comprehensive, Third Party, Fire & Theft and Third Party. Each will be priced differently and costs will vary depending on the level of cover you need. Don’t just accept the policy you are offered.
- Pick your moments – Motorists who are willing to avoid driving during rush hour could cut the cost of their premiums.
- Don’t claim – A no claims bonus can save you a lot of money every year. It is therefore worth protecting. If you have a minor accident, it could work out cheaper to pay for the repairs yourself rather than taking it to your insurance company.
- Be realistic – It is worth only naming regular drivers on your policy to keep the cost down. Additional drivers can be added for a few days at a time when needed.
- Barter – If another company is quoting a lower policy price, then tell your current insurers. Trust us! They won’t want to lose the business and might be willing to negotiate even further.
- The youth of today – Young drivers can cost more (sorry kids). Make sure that adding a young driver to your policy is cost effective.
- Get older or get married – Don’t rush into either of these two, however, be reassured that when and if they happen only good things will come to your insurance premium. Typically insurance costs fall once you are over the age of 25. Insurance companies may also take into account your personal circumstances, including marital status, when they are drawing up your quote.
- Most importantly! Always shop around – there are absolutely no prizes for loyalty when it comes to staying with the same car insurance provider. It is worth taking some time to look around for the best offer. To find out more, you can compare Northern Ireland car insurance here.
20 Simple Tips For Saving on Car Insurance