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Choosing cheap car insurance is like choosing a sex partner â?? you donâ??t have sex with someone without knowing an bit about them, and in the same way, you shouldnâ??t choose your car insurance without knowing a bit more about the individual policies.

Many people start their car insurance search using an Internet search engine. Then they are faced with an array of quotes, from many different companies. You may wonder how on earth you are going to pick one from the hundreds of thousands that pop up on your search results page.

Do you start from the top, taking the first link and hoping for the best? Or do you simply look at the price comparisons and opt for the cheapest one out there?

That may be tempting to do, but if you think about choosing your car insurance in the same way as you would choose someone to take out on a date, then you are likely to get the best package for you. Look at the following options, which are all things you take into account when looking for a partner.

Looks: How does the policy look? Are there attractive areas about it, for instance, a payment-free month, free breakdown cover.

Something in common: You may spend lots of time travelling for business, or may need to pay your premium monthly rather than in one lump sum. So what does the policy have in common with you? Check the monthly payment options and the cost of business car insurance coverage.

Adaptable: Can your future partner make changes if needed â?? for instance, do they mind giving up some of their free time to spend with you? In the same way, can your car insurance policy adapt â?? can you add on named drivers, can you swap it over to another vehicle.

This comparison shows why you should look beyond the price of the car insurance policy, and delve beneath the surface. You may walk into a club and the first person you see is a gorgeous lady. You make your decision on looks alone â?? but itâ??s only later you find out the unpleasant side of things, that she already has a partner. The exact same thing applies with car insurance. You may find that the first option you come across may look good because of the price, but has some unpleasant parts to it, such as a large excess charge. â?? if you need more advice see http://www.car-insurances-online.com.

Another way to find a car insurance company offering the best policy for the least amount of cash is through word-of-mouth. Who do friends insure their cars and vehicles with? Who was the cheapest, or gave the best cover? Have a look at some review sites and see what opinions there are on different car insurance firms. These should all point you in the right direction.

So from potential partners to potential policies, follow the same rules. Cheap car insurance, like cheap sex, does not always mean itâ??s the best.

Jul
1

Although not a completely stagnant market, selling new motorcars in the UK these days is hard work. Combating this, one very successful way that car manufacturers have found to attract new buyers to the motorcar market in the UK is to offer the first year’s car insurance completely free with the purchase of a new motorcar.

Wonderful, but before you jump in and buy that new car, consider this:

if you are under the age of 25, while the first year of your motor insurance is going to be completely ‘free’ (i.e. paid for as part of a sales gimmick by the car manufacturer), subsequent years won’t be! So, before you buy that brand new SUV, 4×4 or sports car, you may want to enquire what the insurance will cost you subsequent of year 1 – otherwise you may well find you have the nicest looking car sitting on a car driveway in your neighborhood! if you are going to buy the car using one of the car manufacturers’ payment hire-purchase payment plans, read the fine print to see if you are contractually required to use the same car insurance provider throughout the term of the hire-purchase period. If so, you may want to reconsider the value of buying your new car this way as there is a very good chance you can find cheaper car insurance elsewhere. remember that even if you are the perfect driver and have no accidents or need to call upon the car insurance company’s services, it is going to have no bearing on the insurance quote for year 2. This is the case because you’ll not be credited with any ‘no claims bonus’ for that period. if you decide to go ahead with the deal, check carefully to see what the car insurance exclusions are as, in most cases, the car insurance being provided for the first year is fairly basic and won’t cover you for a number of circumstances and events that you may automatically have assumed they would.

There is little doubt that the lure of a year’s free car insurance policy as a marketing tool has been extremely successful, but faced with this and the opportunity to try and negotiate some free extras or upgrades with your new motorcar, you may very well want to consider taking the option of negotiating for the free extras or upgrades because in the long run the free motorcar insurance being given to you by your car salesman is going to be anything but ‘free’ and will almost certainly end up costing you far more than if you had arranged the car insurance yourself online. 

Joseph Kenny is the webmaster of the insurance site http://www.insure121.com/ where you will find information, news and links to the leading providers of car insurance in the UK.

Jun
27

While driving can be a great deal of fun, shopping for car insurance is most assuredly not. Nobody rushes out the door in the morning anxiously awaiting the moment when they can start shopping for the best car insurance policy. Even though shopping for car insurance is not fun, however, it is important, and it is vital for everyone who drives a vehicle to have adequate protection in place.

When it comes to car insurance, many of us simply look for the lowest premium we can fund, but it is important to consider not only price but coverage as well. After all, the whole purpose of car insurance is to ensure that your assets are protected in case of an accident, and the accident scene is not the place to find out that the coverage you purchased is not adequate.

It is important to look carefully at the minimum coverage mandated by law and determine if that minimum coverage is really adequate in the real world. It is important to look around at the value of the vehicles around you and make sure that the liability coverage on the policy will cover the cost of the majority of those vehicles. If your neighborhood is crawling with Rolls Royces and Jaguars, you may want to consider upping that liability coverage to a more realistic level.

It is also important to determine exactly what is and is not covered by that insurance policy. Many drivers do not look at the exclusions and limitations of their policy until after an accident has taken place, but the time to do so is at the beginning. It is important to carefully read the fine print in order to determine exactly what is and is not covered.

For instance, travelers will want to determine whether or not the policy covers damage done to rental cars. Many policies automatically extend coverage to any car the insured person drives, whether that car is owned by another individual or a rental car fleet. This knowledge can help the traveler save a bundle by declining the coverage offered by the rental car company.

Drivers will also want to make sure that their policy covers other licensed drivers who may drive their car from time to time. If there is any question on this subject it is important to clear it up before anyone else is allowed to drive the car. And of course no policy will cover damage done by an unlicensed or uninsured driver.

Those drivers who plan to use their car for business will also want to make sure that the car insurance company is aware of that use. Some insurers will charge extra if the vehicle is used for delivery or other business purposes, while others may provide no coverage for business use at all. It is important to read the fine print and ask the agent if necessary.

When it comes to insurance the exclusions can make all the difference. It is vital for every insurance shopper to focus not just on what is covered but what may not be covered as well. Knowing which actions are not covered by insurance will help drivers and car owners tailor their activities to provide the most protection at the least possible cost.

Jun
23

Most teens looking into car insurance may be finding that the rates for car insurance for teens can be quite high. However, despite the rates being generally higher, it is still possible to find cheap car insurance for teens- you just have to know where to look.

Car insurance for teens is designed to protect teenage drivers specifically. It differs from other insurance policies only in the fact that it usually has a higher interest rate. So just why is this?

Teenage drivers are inexperienced. They may have passed their test, but they are still new to driving. To an insurer this means that the likelihood of them having an accident is quite high. Now you could argue that anybody no matter what their age who just passes their driving test is a liability. However statistically that is not the case and that is what insurers look at.

Teenage drivers are twice as likely to have an accident within their first year of driving, than a driver over the age of 25. There are a number of reasons for this. The main one is that teenagers do tend to drive faster and are a little more recklessly. Passing your test gives you freedom and it can be exciting driving along as fast as possible whilst listening to the car stereo. Not all teenage drivers will do this, but statistically that is what insurers find. So because teenagers are statistically more likely to have an accident, teen car insurance is often fairly expensive.

What You Can Do To Get Cheap Car Insurance for Teens?

Apart from higher rates, you still have the same options as any other driver when it comes to car insurance policy. You can choose to take out basic third party insurance, or you could add additional extras if you would prefer. For example, would you like to be protected in case your car gets stolen? You may automatically assume that this protection is included in your car insurance policy. However a lot of the time it isn’t and you will need to read through your terms and conditions to see what is actually included in your policy.

There are some things that you can do to get cheap teen car insurance and that includes purchasing an older car. Your first car should never be anything too fancy or sporty; otherwise you will have to pay a fortune on insurance. So choose a sensible car until you can build up a no claims bonus. Then once you have been driving for a while, purchase a newer car and your insurance will not be through the roof.

Overall car insurance for teens can be expensive. If you look around however you should be able to find a few good deals to suit you. Remember that there are things that you can do to lower your insurance quote too. So even if you are a teenager, you can make certain changes that will lower your insurance rate.

May
14

For most people out the, the sports vehicle is the car of their dreams. The feel of a revving engine and their hair being swept back by the wind as their convertible speeds down on the highway, they most definitely feel is a prize worth paying for.


But what if once they acquire the sports car of their dreams and the thrill of victory dies when they realize that something has gone terribly wrong? They suddenly realize they have basically blown most of their hard earned cash on the purchase of their new vehicle, not leaving enough for the purchase of car insurance. This is when the hunt for a cheap sports car insurance policy begins!


Some things you should keep in mind when looking for cheap sports car insurance:


Shop around the internet for the best insurance rates


Some of the cheaper sports car insurance rates can be found on the internet. Several insurance companies offer deals and discounts. There are also car insurance companies that offer free insurance estimates online.


Factors in determining cost


Sports cars that are driven in places that are considered to have high crime rates cost more to insure. Sports cars are known to be more often stolen than a non-sports vehicle. Their cost for repairs is relatively higher. This is why the insurance premium for sports vehicles are higher than average.


But if a sports car is equipped with safety features such as car alarm, detachable stereo, and steering wheel lock – the cost to have it insured will be reduced.


Compare prices


Shop around for the cheapest sports car insurance policy. This way you will be able to compare objectively the different deals and offers car insurance companies are offering.


Customers would also know if they are being treated fairly, since they have a basis of comparison from different sources.


It is also a factor how many individuals are to be covered by a particular insurance company. This is why it is imperative to look into different sources for the best deal. Different insurance companies offer different terms and agreements.


There are numerous car insurance companies out that offer sports car insurance at a very modest price.


The key is to find those that are offering discounts and special deals for the specific model of car and one that cover the buyer’s needs and specifications. This way the owning a sports car will be an exhilarating experience.

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May
10

Drivers with car insurance whose cars have been flooded may be covered for more than they think. The Better Business Bureau and Insurance Information Institute recommend that all car owners read their car insurance policy closely or they will miss out on reimbursements or other benefits they are entitled to when disaster strikes.

“Drivers spend a lot of money on auto insurance, but too often they wait until they need to make a claim after an accident or emergency and don’t remember what their policy will cover,” said Steve J. Bernas, president & CEO of The Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois. “After a widespread emergency such as a flood, when many people are making claims simultaneously, it’s important for car owners to ask the representative handling their claim about their coverage and deductible, as well as any options that are included, so they get their money’s worth.”

According to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.), a non-profit organization, comprehensive coverage will reimburse drivers for loss due to damage caused by something other than a collision with another car or object, such as fire, falling objects, catastrophic storms, vandalism, or contact with animals such as birds or deer. This includes flooding.

“Although many states do not require that you purchase comprehensive coverage, if you have a car loan, your lender may have required you carry it until your loan is paid off,” said Carolyn Gorman, vice president of the I.I.I. “Comprehensive insurance is usually sold with a $100 to $300 deductible.”

Many drivers also have coverage for a replacement rental car, although they may not realize it because this optional coverage was added at such a minimal expense, usually just a couple of dollars a month. This coverage provides immediate access to a replacement rental car until repairs are made to their flooded car or they are authorized by their insurance company to purchase a new car.

Drivers whose cars are totaled may not have to continue making payments on the balance they owe on the car if their auto insurance included gap coverage. This coverage pays the difference between the amount the insurer pays for the totaled car and the amount the insured owes on their lease or loan. Without this coverage, drivers are responsible for paying the remainder of their lease or loan even when their car is totaled.

The best advice is to be prepared to know what your auto insurance covers and what you should do if your car sustained damages in the flood by following these tips:

Report damage as soon as possible. If your car is not drivable, your agent or claims center may be able to save you time and money by having the car towed directly to the repair facility instead of to a temporary storage facility. In addition, arrangements may be made immediately to provide you with a replacement rental car, if your policy includes this coverage.

Know what your deductible is and any other additional charges before authorizing work. Expect your insurance adjuster, claims representative or repair facility appraiser to review the damage with you and explain the repair process, including the use of original or generic auto parts. Before authorizing repairs, know what your deductible is, as well as any additional charges you will be expected to pay once repairs are complete.

Ask about warranties on repairs. Ask whether your insurer has a repair facility referral program that offers a written limited or lifetime repair warranty backed both by the repairer and insurer for as long as you own your vehicle.

Do business only with a reputable company. Obtain insurance from companies, independent brokers or direct marketers that have a proven track record of handling auto insurance claims effectively. Get a referral, or contact BBB or your State Department of Insurance.

May
6

Car Insurance Tips

Posted on: 4, May

The law requires you buy car insurance. So if you must get cover, how can you reduce costs? Here’s seven easy ways to get the best possible car insurance deal.

* Multiple quotes

Get multiple quotes – use the internet and call a few brokers. It’s easy to gather some good comparison quotes. Remember to get different types of quotes e.g. one from a direct-sell insurance company; another from an offline broker who keeps a database of quotes; and a couple from the internet. Cheapest might not mean best. Will they pay out if you make a claim? How financially secure? How reputable? Check around with family and friends, and look for online reviews.

* Different type of car

Insurance costs vary depending on car type. Obviously, that £100k sports model costs more to insure than your average runabout. If you’re planning to buy a new car, check insurance costs before you buy.

* Age and value of car

Maybe you’re buying a used car? Maybe your car saw better days a few years ago, and now values much lower? So why pay for high-priced car insurance? In particular, do you still need fully comprehensive coverage? A good rule of thumb multiplies insurance premium by 10, and compares that figure with your car value. So if you’re quoted a £1000 premium and your car is worth less than £10,000 you may want to think if comprehensive represents good value. If you drop collision and/or comprehensive coverage, you should get big savings.

* Higher deductibles (excess charges)

Most car insurance companies use deductibles to keep policy cost down. Deductibles, or excess charges, show what you pay before your car insurance policy kicks in. Try requesting quotes with different levels of deductibles, and see how your quotes vary.

Most internet quote forms contain a box where you can specify preferred level of deductibles. Ask your broker his recommended level. For example, going from £250 to £500 deductible can slash your insurance costs by 20% or more. Go to £1000 and you save a lot of money. But you must pay the deductible if you need to make a claim!

* Multiple insurances

This might come under the ‘Get Multiple Quotes’ heading, but it’s still worth mentioning separately. You usually get an insurance break if you buy multiple policies with the same insurer. This might mean multiple vehicles, or homeowner and car insurance. Either way it’s worth asking about multi-policy discounts.

* Low mileage

More and more people work at home. No more commuting. Fewer business trips. Low mileage on your car. Maybe you do travel to work, but car how about a pool? Either way, look for low mileage discounts.

* Good Driving Record

A good driving record always reduces your car insurance costs. Keep a clean drivers license. Don’t speed, don’t drive dangerously, and you’ll save money (apart from other benefits!)

* Bonus tip

Extra tips, include fitting an anti-theft device to your car, going on an advanced driver training course and using daytime running lights. If you’re a university student away from home, consider adding yourself to your parents’ policy.

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May
4

UK car insurance for new and young drivers will never be cheap! This is for one reason and one reason alone young and new drivers are a bigger risk to insure than the average car driver. Newly qualified UK drivers are more likely to have an accident during their first year of year of driving than at any other time.

The facts are stark:

Per mile of driving, the risk of an accident involving injury or death is about seven times greater for 17-20 years old than for those aged 40 or over.

Young drivers under 21 are involved in 15% of all car accident deaths.

New drivers make up just 10% of license holders, but are involved in 29% of accidents.

The following tips will help reduce the cost of young drivers car insurance:

1) Take the Pass Plus driving exam. This is an intensive training course that aims to make new drivers better drivers. Successfully pass the Pass Plus and you will receive a discount of up 35% off your car insurance. The Pass Plus costs around £100 but given the high cost of car insurance it a still a worth while investment. Ask your driving instructor for details.

2) Volunteer to pay a higher excess. Insurers will insist on a minimum amount that you have to contribute to any car insurance claim. The standard amount is £100. As new and young drivers if you volunteer a higher amount you could save on your car insurance premium.

3) Pay your car insurance annually. It is cheaper to pay your years car insurance in one lump sum rather than in monthly installments. Most car insurance companies charge interest of around 15% APR (some up to 30%) to allow you to pay your premium in monthly installments.

4) Adding a named older driver to your car insurance policy, i.e. your parents, can save you 10% on your insurance premium. Likewise, avoid having younger named drivers on your policy.

5) Enhance your car security. Thatcham approved car alarms are recognized by all insurers and most will discount your premium if you have these fitted. If you have a garage then use it. Your car is less likely to be stolen from your garage or from your drive than if it is parked in the street. Insurance companies will recognize this and offer cheaper premiums.

6) Buy your car insurance policy online. Most car insurance companies offer a discount if you buy online via their web site.

7) Be born a woman. Car insurance for women is cheaper. Why? Because the average female is a safer driver than the average male.


8) According to the Association of British Insurers it is possible to save 35% on a car insurance premium by simply comparing several insurance companies against each other. As young drivers such a discount can be considerable. So get as many insurance quotes, online or otherwise, as you can. It will save you money.

Apr
18

The following article will give classic, vintage car buffs the low down on the actual differences that exist between classic car insurance and standard auto insurance. If you love and own classic cars and are busy looking for the best insurance deals available, this article not only gives you the right information you need, but also busts a few popular myths regarding classic car insurance as compared to standard auto insurance.


Many owners of vintage vehicles assume that the only way to insure their collector car is to put it into the family auto policy. That’s not true. The only policy that properly insures the investment car buffs have made on their prized classic car is the classic car insurance policy.


Classic car insurance is less expensive than standard auto insurance, but these companies require you to fulfil a few necessary criteria before you can qualify for their programs and get those great deals and low rates. Here are some of the primary restrictions vintage car owners have to face:


Before you get that good rate on your insurance coverage, the insurance companies will want to know the age of the driver (as many companies require you to meet a certain driver’s-age restrictions), the mileage of your car ( there may be mileage restrictions to meet also), vehicle age qualifications and housing and garage provisions.


In many cases, insurance policies for classic car insurance and those for standard auto insurance can differ a lot. Most standard auto insurance policies will insure the vehicle for its current price, subtracting depreciation. What this means is that, with an increase in the age and usage of the car, its value will decrease. But this is not the case with a vintage vehicle. For this, its value will increase over time provided the collector maintains his vehicle well. This is due to the fact that collectors truly treasure their precious collectible autos. They are not used for similar purposes as daily-use cars and are not driven very often.


To provide the necessary coverage in such a situation, classic car insurance providers usually offer an “Agreed Value Coverage”. This essentially means that you, the insured, and the classic car insurance agent, will agree upon the value of your vehicle up front. Such a vehicle valuation will give the full market value of the classic car as stated on the policy and factor in appreciation to the value in a time of loss.


There may also be some carriers that will offer low or no deductibles for comprehensive and collision coverage. Many times they will also provide coverage for spare parts or accessories that are not on or in your classic car. You won’t get that kind of coverage on your family auto policy.


As you see, getting a classic car insurance policy can be much more beneficial to your prized classic car than clubbing it under your general family auto policy. A vintage collectible needs to be treated specially; so why settle for the ordinary when it comes to choosing insurance?

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Apr
12
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