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Make smart choices when choosing your car insurance (for UK drivers)
In the UK drivers don`t have a choice about whether to obtain car insurance or not ? it is a legal necessity ? however, they can choose the level of cover that`s right for them. There are three options available:
- Third party only cover:
The most basic form of car insurance covers injuries to third parties and damage to their vehicles.
- Third party fire and theft cover:
Adds fire damage and theft cover to a basic third party policy.
- Comprehensive:
Covers damage to your own vehicle. Depending on the policy you choose it may also cover options such as personal injuries and accidental damage and add features such as a courtesy car when an accident occurs, personal possessions cover and more.
What should you look for in a car insurance provider?
According to research from a comparison website in 2008, Swiftcover and Kwik-Fit are the most consistently cheap car insurance providers in the UK with average quotes at £277. However, this doesn`t mean they will be the cheapest for everyone ? or that they provide the right level of cover for you.
The key when searching for car insurance is to think about your own circumstances. In particular, focus on which policy options are right for you ? for example, if you use a car as part of your business you may want personal possessions cover to safeguard items such as laptops and mobile phones that you carry in your car. If you live alone and there is no second vehicle in the household you may need a courtesy car.
In addition there are a number of circumstances for which specialist insurers have emerged to provide unique levels of cover. For example, some insurers specifically cater for female drivers with priority roadside assistance and child seat cover; while younger drivers can benefit from rapid no-claims bonus schemes and Pass Plus discounts.
The key is to find a balance between the right level of cover and the right price. One of the simplest ways to ensure you`re getting the best deal is to use a comparison website. These websites compare policies from as many as 90 different providers with one search based on your circumstances and the policy options that are important to you ? so you can be sure you`re not sacrificing quality for a cheap deal.
How else can you save money without cutting your cover?
Even when you`ve found a car insurance policy that provides the level of cover you need at the right price, there are additional ways to save money, including:
- Improving security:
Insurer-approved car alarms, immobilisers and tracking devices could all earn discounts on your premiums.
- Parking in a garage:
Park in a garage or off the highway at night to make savings.
- Mileage limit:
Agreeing to a mileage limit of 12,000 miles or less could save around five per cent on your premiums with some insurers.
- Stay claims free:
Most insurers run no-claims discount schemes allowing drivers to earn a bonus based on every year they are claims free.
- Advanced courses:
Discounts can be earned if you complete advanced driver courses such as the Pass Plus, for example.
One of the easiest ways to save on car insurance is to buy online ? most insurers offer their cheapest rates through the internet.
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