5 Steps To Cheap Car Insurance

We all know that car insurance is compulsory, but it's not necessary to pay more than you have to. A few simple steps combined with some time surfing for cheap car insurance rates really can save you hundreds.

STEP ONE - CUT THE EXCESS, CUT THE RISK

The size of your car insurance premium is directly related to the risk you pose to the insurance company. So the easiest way to cut your premiums is to accept a higher voluntary excess. An insurer's standard excess may be ฃ100; but if you meet the first ฃ250 of any claim, you'll see a reduction in your premium. This is because you're taking on more of the risk so you get a discount. But it's a gamble, be aware that you might have to meet the cost of a broken window after an attempted theft, then a bill for repairing bodywork damage after a car park crunch.

STEP TWO - SECURE IT & SAVE

Another sure way of reducing the risk and, therefore the premium, is by fitting approved security devices. All major UK insurers insist on Thatcham rated security equipment, usually a minimum of an alarm. If you live in a high-risk area for car crime, it makes sense to fit extra security such as an immobiliser and alarm. Not only does it save you money when your insurance renewal is due but it gives you extra peace of mind every time you park up your car.

STEP THREE - LOW MILES, LOW PREMIUM

If your annual mileage is low, 5,000 miles or less, ask insurers if they offer discounts for agreed mileage restrictions.

STEP FOUR - ADD A NAMED DRIVER & SAVE UP TO 15%

Including a named driver on your policy can increase or reduce your premiums depending upon the named drivers age, sex and driving record. A young named driver will increase your premiums, particularly with a limited or poor driving record. However, adding a driver over 30 years old with a long and clean driving record can cut premiums by up to 15%, particularly if the named driver is female!

STEP FIVE - SHOP, HAGGLE & SAVE

Simply shopping around will reward you with the biggest savings. There can be massive differences between the lowest and highest car insurance quotes for exactly the same car and driver(s).

Start off using good comparative online car insurance quote sites like Moneysupermarket and Screentrade, take their best quotes and go direct to the cheapest insurers for more specific quotations.

by Simon Markham