As a young driver in Ireland, finding affordable car insurance can often feel like an uphill struggle. But don’t worry, with our useful and practical tips, you can find the right car insurance premium for you – and save money – without cutting corners.
How Young Drivers Can Save on Car Insurance: Practical Tips and Insights
As a young driver in Ireland, finding affordable car insurance can often feel like an uphill struggle. But don’t worry, with our useful and practical tips, you can find the right car insurance premium for you – and save money – without cutting corners.
Factors Affecting Insurance Costs for Young Drivers
Car insurance is based on the risk of the driver. Younger and less experienced drivers typically tend to pay a higher premium because, statistically, they are more likely to be involved in an accident compared to drivers over the age of 25 years old.
Below are some of the factors that affect insurance costs for young drivers:
- Driving Experience – number of years you’ve held a full/learner driving licence
- Age of driver
- Age and Model of Your Car
- Vehicle Engine Size
- Where the car is parked
Save on Car Insurance: Top Tips for Young Drivers
Understanding Your Insurance Needs
The first step is understanding what type of coverage you actually need. Do you need comprehensive insurance, or would third-party fire and theft cover it?
Comprehensive insurance, while more expensive, covers most eventualities—and is something to consider if you’re driving a newer or more valuable car. Whereas a more basic policy might suit you better if you’re just motoring around town or in an older, less flashy car.
Type of Vehicle
The type of car you drive can significantly impact your insurance rates. High-performance vehicles, SUVs or cars with large engines typically come with higher premiums attached.
For a budget-friendly insurance quote, opt for a car with a smaller engine, good safety ratings, and low repair costs. Not only can this save you money on insurance, it’s also likely to be more fuel-efficient—a win-win for your bank balance and the environment.
Increase Your Excess
Your excess is the first amount of a claim that you must pay. For example, if your excess is €500 and you cause €2,000 worth of damage to your car (assuming the loss is covered), your insurer will pay €1,500.00 for repairs.
Add a Named Driver
Adding an experienced driver, like a parent or grandparent, to your policy can sometimes reduce your premiums. This is because some insurers see a reduced risk with a mix of young and experienced drivers using the car.
However, be wary of “fronting“—an illegal insurance practice where a more experienced driver falsely claims they are the main driver of the vehicle to reduce costs. This is illegal and can result in penalties.
Get Added as a Named Driver
On the other side of that, you can also be added as a named driver under your parent’s car insurance to bring down the price of the insurance. Having named driving experience can also stand to you when you go for your own policy and may result in providers offering you a cheaper rate.
Pay Annually Instead of Monthly
If you can afford it, paying for your insurance in one annual lump sum instead of monthly instalments can save you money. Most insurers charge a little bit extra for the convenience of spreading payments out over the year due to the added administration and interest fees involved.
Advanced Driving Courses
In Ireland, completing the Essential Driver Training (EDT) programme is the minimum requirement for driver training, but it doesn’t have to stop there.
An advanced driving course can teach defensive driving techniques and help you become a safer, more efficient driver. These courses not only make you a safer driver but can also potentially lower your insurance premiums.
Talk to KennCo
While being a young driver comes with its set of challenges, understanding your coverage needs, improving your driving skills, and making informed choices about your vehicle can help you get a more affordable premium.
For a fast and reliable young driver car insurance quote, contact KennCo on 01 409 2600 today, or visit our website for an online quote.
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Cheaper Young Driver Car Insurance
Written by KennCo Staff
Approved by Marketing Manager Noel Gavin
