Protecting what gets you from A to B

For many of us, getting from A to B would be near impossible without a vehicle. But driving can be a risky business, which is why it’s important to have some protection in place.

Car insurance protects your pride and joy and is designed to get you back on the road again as quickly as possible, without the worry of a big bill to pay. It’s more than a comfort factor, it really is there to protect you, your property and the property of people you might accidentally run into.

If your premium has risen, we understand you’ll be wanting to know why.

Modern cars are jam packed with safety features – and that’s a great thing. Car manufacturers are always working to make cars smarter and less prone to accidents – and that means fewer injuries and deaths on our roads.

But all this lifesaving technology comes at a price. A few years back a small ding in your bumper might have been an easy fix but today, with all the sensors and electronics, the cost could be in the thousands!

It’s not just the technology that’s become pricier. Car mechanics are having to upskill too, so they’re able to properly repair and maintain all these new components. The cost of training these experts and keeping them up to date with the latest technology is also adding to the rise in insurance premiums.

Tip: Before buying that super-smart car, check out the insurance premiums.

Your car insurance is calculated using a number of factors – some within your control and some out of it. Your driving history, your past claims and driving infringements can impact your premiums, as can your choice of car and where you live. Factors beyond your control include how many vehicles are on the road and your age.

There are three main ways of insuring your car that offer different levels of cover.

• Car Comprehensive. Most people choose this policy as it provides the broadest protection for all sorts of unhappy surprises on the road.
• Car Third Party, Fire and Theft. This is often taken out to protect a lower value car while still including the benefit of protection from fire, theft or attempted theft. Plus, if you accidentally hit your neighbour’s car and it’s your fault, we'll pay for your neighbour’s repairs.
• Third Party Only. This is the value option covering you for damage you cause to someone else’s car or property, but not your own.
  

There are a few different ways you can save on your premiums while ensuring you stay protected. Consider some of these options.

• Remove under 25-year-old drivers from your policy – you can check the age of any named drivers in your most recent policy schedule.
• Reduce the type of cover.
• Review your vehicle value as shown in your policy schedule – your car may be worth less than it’s currently insured for.

You can read more about ways to save here.

If you need advice or want to discuss how to reduce your premiums, just call us on 0800 100 200. We’re here to help.