Auto insurance is much more than a legal requirement for car owners. The right policy can protect you against considerable financial loss and make the aftermath of an accident far less stressful. Our insurance guide can help you make the right decision when choosing your cover.
What to look for when choosing a policy
As most established companies are now telephone based, it's easy to shop around.
Bear in mind the following points: -
Price
The same policy can cost significantly more with one company than it does with another. Get policy quotes from several companies before deciding.
Comparing quotes
Comparing only the price of the premium can be misleading. Check what the policy actually covers you for and, if in doubt, ask for a copy of the policy and read it thoroughly.
Excess
Higher excess level (the amount of a claim that you have to pay) will normally mean a lower premium, however if you are unfortunate enough to have to make a claim it will cost you more.
No claims discount
Insurance companies reward careful drivers with no-claims discounts. Give a detailed account of your driving history. If you're a new driver, find a company that offers competitive rates to drivers seeking insurance for the first time.
Women only
Women are statistically safer drivers than men. As a result, some companies offer lower premiums to female drivers.
Paying
Most companies give the option of either paying all your premium in one go or making monthly payments for a small extra charge.
