Top Tips to Get the Best Deal on your Car Insurance

So many insurance companies are offering great deals, but that cheaper insurer may not be the best for your individual requirements. In fact, striking the best balance between what you need as the insured party and what your insurance company needs to minimise the risk of claim (in terms of reducing your premium), is a delicate act. Below are a few hints to enable you to efficiently and effortlessly obtain the right policy for you.



Our situations change all the time in life and therefore so do our insurance needs; so when renewing your existing policy, take it as an opportunity to review your needs. If you’re like the majority of people, you may renew your policy with your present car insurer periodically without seeking other quotes, but this may not now be the best deal for you. For example, if you have received penalty points on your licence and have been paying a higher premium, it is up to you to ask your insurer when your policy can revert back to the normal premium, no insurer will automatically drop the rate no matter how loyal a customer you have been.



When looking for your car insurance policy search online, ask your friends for referrals and phone around. Instructing a broker to represent your needs may appeal to you; brokers use their industry contacts to make sure you are getting the best possible deal. A broker may be an option if you are short on time and want to employ a trusted expert.



Insurance is not a one-size-fits-all product; nowadays insurers have tailor-made packages for lady drivers, older drivers, couples, and those under 25 to name but a few. In addition, the way you drive can also effect the premium that you pay; for example if you do less than 5000 km per year you may be entitled to a low mileage discount. Similarly, if you have taken an advanced driving course, this makes you a safer driver in the eyes of the insurer and therefore can often reduce your premium. By communicating your individual insurance needs, you may find that a package already exists for you.



Loyalty is rewarded by companies and insurance is no exception; if you have your home insurance with a company, why not ask them if they give a bulk discount if you sign up to their car insurance too. On a similar note, your work place, professional association or club may offer discounts with certain insurers.



Your insurance policy may not be just about you either, if you are putting on a family member or friend this may increase or decrease your premium, depending on their age, sex and driving record - so be wary of named drivers. Putting additional drivers on your licence could also affect your no claims bonus.



And, finally, it sounds cliché but it is definitely not – read the small print! That cheap policy may look appealing at first glance but reading the detail may show a high excess or an important extra, such as windshield glass repair, is absent.



Isla Campbell writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.