T Junction is a website run by Leicestershire County Council to give young people the best opportunity to be safe on the roads.
You’ll probably be expecting that, as a new driver, you’ll pay a lot for car insurance. As your age and experience increases, statistics show that your risk
levelreduces and among others, it’s this factor that insurance companies base their premiums upon. Though higher costs are unavoidable, there are things you can do to help keep down the premiums.
Drive carefully! – Stick to the speed limit, drive sensibly and don’t take risks. It’s obvious but if you keep your driving record clean, you’ll be on the way to earning No Claims Discount – a major factor in how insurance companies calculate your driving risk.
Carry on learning – After you’ve passed your test, you can choose to complete the Pass Plus course. This is a short course of further instruction by an ADI qualified instructor which aims to give you more experience and confidence on the road. Most insurers will accept a successful Pass Plus qualification as evidence for a discount on your first insurance premium. Find out more here.
Choose the right car – Doing your homework pays off! Generally speaking, you’ll pay more for newer cars with more powerful engines. Check online to see which makes and models attract higher premiums.
Improve your cars security – Does your car have an alarm or immobiliser? If not, it may be worth considering getting one fitted or upgrading the current system. Simple things like using approved steering locks and other devices or keeping your car in a locked garage overnight or can save on your premium. Find out more here.
Don’t modify your car – Making changes to performance or even bodywork can make your premiums higher and worse still, can make your insurance invalid. Always check with the insurer that anything unusual fitted to your car is covered by the policy.
Avoid ‘Fronting’ – Don’t be tempted by offers of older drivers insuring your car for you. This is known as ‘fronting’ and is classed as fraud. In the case of a claim, your insurance won’t be valid and what’s more, you will be open to penalties and prosecution.