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5 Steps To Cheap Car Insurance
By: Simon Markham
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 £100; but if you
meet the first £250 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.
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