March is when the new vehicle registrations are released. So, whether your car insurance is up for renewal or you’re thinking of purchasing a new vehicle, now is a good time to check and update your information.
- If using a comparison site, make sure that you are adequately covered. It’s not unusual to find online policies exclude elements such as misfuelling and offer restricted monetary levels of key cover.
- Excess levels. Consider what excess level is appropriate for your circumstances and value of your car. Remember to check the combined total of voluntary and compulsory excesses. Higher excesses could make a cheap policy far more expensive in the event of a claim.
- Mind the GAP. GAP cover is often sold when you buy a brand new car. If you are the first registered owner or keeper then GAP may not be appropriate year one depending on your insurance policy. Some garages will charge more for GAP cover. It’s an insurance policy and not exclusive to dealerships and can be purchased anytime in the first 365 days of owning your vehicle.
- Additional drivers. It may be worth checking whether an additional driver will reduce the price of the policy. However, bear in mind that having too many can sometimes have the opposite effect and increase your premium.
- Be as accurate as possible. For example, claiming that you will do restricted miles, or that a car is only used for commuting and social use but it is actually used for work purposes, will reduce the price but in the event of a claim may invalidate your cover. It may be worth checking the mileage you have done since your last service or MOT rather than guessing.
- Check reviews. We cannot stress this enough, search online for their reviews. The entire purpose of insurance is to protect you should the worst happen. If an insurer, aggregator or broker has a record of bad service then this could end up costing you time (and money).
- Keep details updated. For example, vehicle value, all named drivers’ occupations, accidents/claims (whether fault or non-fault), motoring convictions and where the vehicle is kept at night. Any changes will need to be reflected in your policy. Failure to do so may result in your insurer refusing to pay out in the event of a claim.
At Jukes Insurance Brokers, we search the market on your behalf to find the right insurance cover for you. We also have a dedicated claims team should you need it. To get your free quote call our friendly team on 01527 874092.
