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Posts Tagged ‘Car Insurers’

Stark Rise In Car Insurance Premiums

The stark rise in car insurance and business car insurance premiums, which was predicted by Norwich Union at the end of 2006 has not materialised.

One of the UK?s biggest car insurers, Norwich Union had stated that in 2007 premiums would have to rise by 16%PRCTG% in order to cover the cost of increased claims. However, the latest AA British Insurance premium index indicates a rise of only 5.9%PRCTG% in comprehensive car insurance cover throughout the year.

The reason given for the halt in premium rates was the much fiercer competition engendered between the UK?s top online insurance companies.

Typically, the report stated, UK drivers paid an average of ?594 for fall comprehensive car cover in the previous year. The Index also reveals that those who shopped around in search of cheaper car insurance when it came time to renew the policy, paid on average ?194 less, an indicated saving of upwards of 33 percent.

The data also revealed that car insurance for third party, fire and theft could also be cheaper when switching companies on renewal, achieving savings of as much as ?225 a year below the average industry quote.

However there are other factors, which may have affected the accuracy of these statistics.

According to a recent article in The Guardian Money Column, the exact circumstances of each driver must be compared in order to reach a true comparison of what is actually the cheaper insurance option. For instance, some insurers will not offer cover for business or commercial use, and other insurers will not offer any kind of policy for younger drivers.

It has also been noted that often the cheapest of the insurers can subsidise their premiums by applying other costs and charges. An example of this can be found in the APR charged when the premiums are paid in monthly instalments. Extra costs have soared by as much as 39%PRCTG% when this has been applied. Also regular drivers abroad are offered free European cover by some insurers, whilst others may charge as much as an additional ?20 for a two-week visit to France.

Interestingly, the consumer body icon Which? Discovered that insurance premiums could reduce by as much as 25%PRCTG% by buying directly from the designated company?s website online.

The organisation also suggests that even if only third party, fire and theft is being considered, it would be beneficial to also get quotes for comprehensive car insurance cover, as often
this type of cover may not cost much more, and it may be well worth paying the difference in order to secure additional security and peace of mind.

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Ways to Save on Auto Insurance

February 23rd, 2010 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

The American economy is sucking a lot of money out of consumers? pockets due to high gas prices and the general increase in every other consumer good from food to clothing that is associated with high oil prices. However, there is good news on the horizon, and that is that auto insurance rates are being reduced. Despite this reduction, there are several things you should keep in mind when shopping for car insurance to ensure you receive the best rate and coverage for you and your vehicle.

Tip #1 Shop Around
There are so many different auto insurers out there you might think it difficult to find the best insurance at the lowest prices. However, don?t despair because all you have to do is shop around. The easiest way to do this is to go online and search all your favorite car insurers in order to receive a fast and free online quote. Then, you can simply compare the services and prices of the insurers and make the best choice for you. Spending a little time on research might save you hundreds of dollars on car insurance.

Tip #2 Look for the Discounts
You may not have known this, but many auto insurers provide discounts to drivers for good driving behavior and other reasons as well. So, ask about the discounts available through various insurance providers and consider how many you would qualify for. More than likely if you qualify for one or two then your rates could easily drop several hundred dollars per year.

Tip #3 Maintain Your Credit
Unbeknownst to you, your credit score affects your car insurance rate. As a result, you should be sure to maintain your credit score as high as possible in order to not only receive the benefits of good credit, but also to pay lower car insurance premiums. It is really worthwhile, and something you will benefit from economically.

These tips are great ways for you as a consumer to take your car insurance needs into your own hands and find the best provider with the lowest rates and most coverage. When you start doing the research, you will be amazed how much money you can save as well as how many more benefits you can receive. Go ahead and start saving on your auto insurance today, there is no reason to wait.

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Auto Insurance – What Factors Effect Your Rates

January 2nd, 2010 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

Car insurance is something that we all need – if we drive a car. While having car insurance may not be an option, just how much we pay for it is. There are a number of things that can make those numbers add up, while other factors will tend to bring those numbers down. Here are some of those things.

Factors About You

This is probably the greatest factor about you that will set the rates. Car insurers tend to think that a male that is 25 or less is prone to be less careful than a female driver of the same age. This means that a young man will pay more for the same coverage on the same car than a girl would that is just as old. When you get married, though, you will usually see a drop in your insurance rates – guess that means you should be more responsible – and careful ? even if you still are less than 25.

Another thing is whether you have had a driver’s training course or not. If you have had formal instruction, you can tell your insurance agent, and that should result in a small discount. And then there is the matter of your driving record. If you have traffic violations, or a past accident (or two) within the last three years, your rates will be raised accordingly. If you have enough of these, insurance companies will not insure you.

Your job can also effect your insurance rates. If you drive a lot of miles every year, it increases the likelihood of an accident, which means higher rates.

The Car

The car itself is also a main consideration as to what your auto insurance rates will be. This is based on risk to the insurer. A more expensive car means that an insurer may lose more money – so they charge you more for it. Obviously, your insurance rates on a Ferrari will be higher than on most other cars. Also, a brand new car right off the dealer’s lot will be more than a car that is one year old. Some models of cars are the most likely to be stolen. These cars are reported regularly online every year, and if you want lower rates the stay away from these hot cars.

Having certain safety features on your car can reduce your rates, too. If you live in an urban area, things like steering wheel locks, car alarms, and other features will lower your rates.

The Neighborhood

Where you live is another main consideration. For instance, those living in an urban area will find their car insurance rates to be much higher than those who live in a rural area. This could be a difference of over 230%PRCTG% – depending on which city, and in what neighborhood in that city you live. With more traffic comes a greater likelihood of getting into an accident. Theft is also another concern.

The Policy

The policy itself, and what you choose in the way of options and coverage, will also effect the price of your insurance payments. You can reduce your car insurance costs by increasing the deductible, and possibly by eliminating some of the other options you probably will never use. Make sure, though, that if you increase the deductible, that you can afford it. If you were to have an accident, it will be necessary to pay the deductible before the insurer will do their part.

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How To Save Money And Get Discount Automobile Insurance In Tennessee

December 1st, 2009 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

A great way to save money and get discount automobile insurance in Tennessee is to take a look at ? and pamper! ? your credit score. Yes, you?ve heard the rumors and they?re true ? many car insurers look at your credit report when determining how affordable car insurance rates in Tennessee will be. That means the MasterCard bill that was sent to collections, or the bankruptcy you filed last year, could very well affect your chances at getting cheap auto insurance in Tennessee.

Luckily, you can spruce up, and eventually even do some serious repair, to your credit score. This will make it much easier on yourself to save money and get discount automobile insurance in Tennessee.

How can you revamp your credit score and work toward getting cheap auto insurance in Tennessee?

? Order a copy of your credit report. Various companies offer free copies of your credit report. Order inaccuracies that negatively affect your credit score.

? Start paying your bills on time. This many seem like a no-brainer, but it can be difficult to pay your bills on time once you?ve gotten behind. Call your creditors and ask about setting up payment plans to get caught up.

? Get rid of some ? or all ? credit cards. The less credit you have, the less temptation you have, right? Find out how to transfer each card onto one card and save money on interest rates as well as avoid the temptation to use all cards.

? Get a new credit card. Use this option if your credit is so poor (or lacking) that you can?t get credit on your own. Ask a relative to co-sign a credit card for you (this makes it easier to get one) ? use it wisely and make payments on time.

It will take some time to repair your credit score, but once you do you?ll find it easier to get affordable car insurance rates in Tennessee.

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How To Save Money And Get Discount Automobile Insurance In Wisconsin

November 29th, 2009 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

Did you know that you risk shooting yourself in the foot when you try to save money on automobile insurance in Wisconsin with a car insurer that has a low financial rating? It?s true.

Searching for discount automobile insurance in Wisconsin with financially high-rated car insurers only may sound like arrogant behavior, but it?s not. In reality, it?s not only one of the best ways to obtain affordable auto insurance in WI; for several reasons, it?s also one of the safest.

?Wisconsin car insurance companies with high financial ratings are more likely to provide you with quick and adequate compensation when you file a claim. If you purchase coverage with a low-rated company, you put yourself at risk for lengthy claims processes and lower compensation that what you signed on for.

?Financially high-rates auto insurers are less likely to file for bankruptcy. Sure, the insurance business is a heavily regulated one, but that doesn?t mean going bankrupt is impossible. If your automobile insurance company finds itself in the hole, you?ll find yourself out hundreds or thousands of dollars ? dollars you?ll never get back.

?High-rated insurers are more likely to offer numerous car insurance policy discounts. In other words, it?s easier to save money on automobile insurance in Wisconsin with these companies because of how financially secure they are.

Be aware that purchasing WI car insurance from companies with slightly lower ratings isn?t always dangerous. An insurer may have a low financial rating simply because it?s relatively new. Too, these lower rated companies may offer plenty of discounts to lure potential policyholders.

You can find information about an automobile insurance company?s financial ratings by contacting any of the numerous existing independent research companies. A few examples include Standard & Poor?s, Fitch Ratings, and A.M. Best.

You can find additional ways to find affordable auto insurance in WI as well as apply for free online car insurance quotes with http://EZQuoteGuide.com.

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Car Insurance Top Tips

September 18th, 2009 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

The car insurance industry has got really competitive in the last few years, so prices haven’t really changed much. There are now over 100 car insurers to choose from, so there are some very good deals out there for those who are prepared to shop around. 23%PRCTG% of motorists still choose to insure with the same company as the year before, but they could undoubtedly save money if they did check out some other companies.

Motorists could be forgiven for not getting other quotes, it used to be a very laborious exercise involving long waits while getting routed through the call centre, and boring repetition of facts to sales advisors. Now, thanks to the internet, it’s all a lot more simple. Car insurers also offer extra discounts to people who buy online.

However, you need to consider the quality of the policy, not just the price:

? Check that your low quotation is not due to an extremely high excess.

? Check that you will get a courtesy car if your car needs to be taken in for repairs.

? Check that legal insurance cover is included, if you want it, and automatic windscreen replacement.

? Find out if there is an accident help line in case of an emergency.

It’s a good idea to ring the insurer direct to talk through the policy in detail before signing up online.

Money saving tips ? recommended!

You can get a quote with over 40 car insurers if you input your details into a good car insurance broker’s website. You’ll only need to give your details once. Call the insurer with the quotation to check exactly what is and isn’t covered.

If you have a garage, then you’ll save by keeping your car there overnight. You’ll also make savings if you can keep your car on a driveway. This is because there is more chance your car being broken into or vandalised if it’s kept on the road.

Give your insurer an accurate picture of how many miles you do each year ? you will save if you travel less.

Some occupations, like being a landlord, journalist or professional footballer (if only) attract higher premiums. You can save money if you work in finance or the civil service.

Get married! Men under 30 pay more if they’re not married ? it’s just the excuse your girlfriend is looking for!

Under 25’s pay more, but you can get lower premiums if can put a driver over the age of 25 with a good driving record on your policy as a named driver. That person must be under 60 though, as premiums rise again at that age.

Agreeing to higher excess (the average cost is ?100) will help lower your premiums.

If your car is not of a high value, you could get third party cover and make quite a saving compared to fully comprehensive insurance.

Pay as you go insurance is a new option for 18-21 year olds. It’s a recent development introduced by Norwich Union, in which you pay a unit cost per mile. The cost per mile is more between 11pm and 6am. You pay an initial fee of ?199 to have a Global Positioning System fitted to your car, and then it transmits details of your mileage direct to Norwich Union. They send you a monthly invoice and you pay for the miles you’ve done!

Taking Pass Plus lessons to improve your driving abilities could save you around a third on your premiums. They cost ?15 – ?30 an hour and cover driving at night, in busy rush hour jams and fast motorway driving. You can find out more at www.passplus.org.uk . You can also improve your driving skills and make insurance savings with the Institute of Advanced Motorists ( www.iam.org.uk ).

Find out the insurance group of a car before you make the purchase. There are twenty insurance groups ? the slower and less desirable the car (to criminals) then the lower the rating. You could make considerable savings by choosing a car in a lower insurance group.

If you want a high spec or performance car then you can expect to pay a lot more on your insurance. They’re a lot more likely to be stolen or involved in an accident. Making the sensible choice might be a bit boring, but it will be a lot cheaper.

Watch your speed. Most insurance companies will let you get away with a single fixed penalty fine but if you repeat the offence then your premiums will rocket.

Protect your no claims discount as soon as you can (usually after four years). It costs a bit extra but it’s well worth it.

Satellite navigation in your car will lower your premiums. Insurers have found that people concentrate more on their driving and less on trying to find their way, which means less chance of having an accident.

It’s a good idea to have an engine immobiliser or alarm fitted not just because it could help you keep hold of your car, it will also make you a saving of 5-8%PRCTG%.

If there’s two or more cars in the household, get them on the same policy to get a good discount.

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Car Insurance Pricing Plans

September 3rd, 2009 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

The law requires liability insurance for all drivers and vehicles. This means that if you are involved in a serious accident, and it turns out that it was your fault, your insurance company will pay out any claims that are made against you. Extra coverage on your own vehicle, called comprehensive insurance, is optional.

Insurance companies based on a number of risk factors will calculate the price you pay for this insurance. Basically how it works is the more they feel you are at risk of crashing, and the more they think the resulting crash will cost them, the higher the premium you?ll pay.

Assessment

Common factors that will be to assess the premium are the value of the car you?re driving, the safety of that vehicle, the coverage you want, will there be deductibles or limits etc.? How much you?ll drive the car, how your driving record stands, how long you’ve held your license, your age, and if you are young, also your sex.

The premium is then calculated. Usually there is a flat per car, per year rate that everyone pays, regardless of other factors. The other factors will then alter this rate, generally upwards. So if your car is especially fast or dangerous your rate will be increased by a set amount. If it is very old, your rate goes up. If you?ve had one or more accidents in the past, your rate will go up. If you?re young and male, your rate will go up. The more of these factors you satisfy, the more your rate will be going up.

Discounts

As a sales enhancement, many car insurers offer a “low estimated future mileage” discount to customers who predict that the car’s mileage will be below some stated limit during the next premium period. There is no verification involved and no additional charge if the car is subsequently driven more than the stated amount. This arbitrary discount tends to foster customer belief in the mistaken idea that “miles” are just one of many classification factors used to raise or lower prices from the territorial base rate. In fact, odometer miles (which insurers do not use) are not a factor but a metric – the only valid basis for measuring each car’s consumption of insurance protection in on-the-road use.

The best way to save on car insurance is to shop around, keep a good clean driving record, drive safely, and choose reliable cars that are not known for their power and speed.

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