Figures released from The Department of Transport’s Report for 2008: Road Casualties in Great Britain 2008 – Annual Report Article 5 (Pages: 58-79) reveal that in the UK, there are an estimated 800 casualties on our roads. Its therefore not surprising that to remain legal, all vehicle users in the UK must be insured or risk heavy penalties.
In the UK, there are 3 main types of insurance for cars, motor bikes and commercial vehicles. These include:
Third party
Third party, fire and theft
Fully Comprehensive
What does Fully Comprehensive Insurance not cover?
It always pays to read the small print while purchasing fully comprehensive Insurance. Points to bear in mind include:
Excess
Check, who pays the first part of the claim?
Loss of Use
Do you get a hire car while your car’s being repaired?
Add-ins for fully Comprehensive Insurance:
Liability
Medical Payments / Personal Injury Protection
Uninsured / Underinsured Motorists
Collision
Other forms of insurance available in the UK include:
Over 50/Senior Car Insurance
Women Only Car Insurance
Commercial Car and Van Insurance
Motorcycle Insurance
We'll help make sure you have the right coverages for you and your car:
- Liability
- Medical Payments / Personal Injury Protection
- Uninsured / Underinsured Motorists
- Collision
- Comprehensive
When purchasing insurance think of the 3 ‘R’s
Rates
Response
Reliability
What can you actually afford to pay to ensure peace of mind?
Purchasing UK Insurance – 5 Point Guide
Introduction
The following 5 Point Guide will help you to ‘map out your route’ more effectively, enabling you to get the best coverage insurance at the lowest possible prices.
Step 1- Navigate your route
When purchasing insurance ensure that you’re adequately covered without paying too much excess.
It pays to compare insurance quotes
How to make savings
Look for discounts
Step 2 - How much protection?
Make a list. Plan for worst case scenarios
Whether you have the latest Jaguar, old banger or company vehicle, ask yourself; ‘how much protection do I really require to ensure piece of mind?’
Ask to see the insurer’s actuarial tables
Do you really require add-ons? Does another insurance cover your breakdown coverage?
Step 3 - Review your Driving Record and Current Insurance Policy
Is you’re current insurer charging too much?
Check the status of your driving record and weigh up the penalty points.
Look at the smallprint and consider what you’re actually paying for.
Calculate a figure you’d like other insurers to beat and start negotiating!
Step 4 – Start shopping
To save thousands of pounds, use online shopping services as opposed to purchasing directly from call centre. The obvious benefits are better value for money.
Always obtain competitive quotes.
Step 5 - How to read terms and conditions
Look for companies who’ll guarantee to match a competitive quote or cancel the policy!
What discounts are being offered?
Can you get online support or reach an accident emergency helpline?
What are the terms for payment? Will they allow you to spread the costs of your payment to suit your pocket?