Choosing the right car insurance isn’t always as easy as it seems. With so many options available, it’s easy to get lost in jargon or overspend on coverage you don’t actually need.
But don’t worry. You can still get a great deal without compromising on the protection you need. With a few simple steps, you can find a policy that fits your needs and your budget.
Understand your options
Before getting quotes, take some time to understand the types of cover available. Car insurance generally comes in three levels: third party, third party fire and theft, and comprehensive.
Third party is the minimum required by law, covering damage to other vehicles and property if you’re at fault. Third party fire and theft adds protection for your own car in case of fire or theft. Comprehensive is the most extensive cover, also protecting you and your car in a wider range of scenarios.
Think about what you need based on your driving habits and the value of your car. If your car is old and not worth much, a third-party policy may be enough. If you’ve invested in a new or expensive vehicle, comprehensive cover is often the smarter option.
Compare different policies online
Once you’ve settled on the type of cover you want, it’s time to shop around. The internet makes this part easy – comparison sites let you compare different policies in just a few minutes. But don’t stop there. Visiting insurers’ websites directly can sometimes reveal better deals, especially if they offer online-only discounts or specialist policies.
Make sure to compare the total cost, which includes both the premium and any excess you’ll need to pay in the event of a claim. A low premium can be tempting, but if the excess is high, it might not be worth it in the long run.
Take time to read the policy details carefully to make sure you’re getting the right cover at the right price.
Maximise discounts and adjust policy details
Many insurers offer a range of discounts, and it’s worth finding out how you can make the most of them. For example, some policies offer lower rates if you agree to pay annually instead of monthly, or if you’ve completed an advanced driving course. You might also get a discount for having multiple policies with the same provider or multiple cars on one policy.
If you’re confident on the road, consider adjusting your policy details. Increasing the excess can lower the overall cost of your insurance premiums. But you’ll have to deal with a higher out-of-pocket expense should you need to make a claim.
Consider whether add-ons are worth it
It’s easy to get tempted by those little add-ons like legal cover, breakdown assistance or windscreen cover. While these might seem appealing, evaluate whether they’ll be useful for you. If you already have breakdown cover or legal protection through another service, adding these to your car insurance might be redundant.
Carefully assess the value of any extras you chose. If you don’t drive often, additional features might just be money down the drain. Only add what you’re likely to use, so you’re not paying for services you won’t benefit from.
