The financial implications of a motoring accident can be colossal. This is why it’s important to give accurate information to your insurer and don’t let a few myths lure you down some very dark and dangerous roads!
Car insurance (like any insurance) is calculated by analysing elements of risk and the financial implications in the event of an accident. When you get a quote, you may find yourself answering question after question, but this provides your insurer with the key information they need to calculate that risk and subsequent costs involved in the event of a claim.
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to car insurance. As an experienced driver, you may pay less than a driver who has only been driving for two years. Add some convictions, an extremely valuable car or if you live in an area with a low crime rate, then the premium will reflect this.
Insurance in some basic form has been around since the 14th century as have some of its accompanying myths or misconceptions. Here are a few misconceptions you need to look out for when it comes to car insurance!
Misconceptions and myths
Your occupation does not matter:
It can easily be misunderstood as not that relevant, but your occupation affects the cost of your premium. Don’t be fooled into thinking that it’s just part of the insurance company’s contact details for you. Different occupations or working environments may impact your premium more than others. A chef working in a licensed premises will pay a higher premium than if the same individual was working in an unlicensed premises.
Main drivers don’t need to be main drivers!
A good way to potentially lower your premium is to add a more experienced driver to your policy, but you should never imply that they are the ‘main driver’ if they are not. For example, if you add a parent to your policy but state that they are the main driver then your policy would be invalidated. Known as ‘fronting’, this deception has potential consequences, such as court and fines – so it’s not a good idea!
You do not need to mention non-fault accidents and claims
A very common misconception is that you do not have to inform your insurer of any accidents that you may have been involved in, even if they were not your fault. If you were involved in an accident or made a claim and are not liable, then you still must inform your insurance company and unfortunately, there is no guarantee that your premium will not go up.
Comprehensive policies cover you to drive any car
Some comprehensive policies allow you to drive any car, often up to a particular value if you have taken out a comprehensive policy. Be careful, this is not always the case. Do not think you can drive any car just because you have a comprehensive policy. Always check with your insurance company. Some insurance companies will cover you for any car you drive as part of a comprehensive policy, often only up to third-party cover when driving other vehicles. So don’t get caught out!
Third-party policies are always cheaper
Some customers will try and save money by opting for third-party cover. It’s true, it can be cheaper than comprehensive, but not always. Often the price difference is minimal, and compared to the potential risks involved, going comprehensive is easily worth the small increase in premium.
It’s all about the little details
Providing the right information is critical, equally for you it’s all about understanding the finer details of your policy, so you know what you are covered against. Policies can be tailored to your individual requirements so explore these options. For example, personal injury cover as part of your car insurance policy may be of great importance to you.