Compare car insurance
What to look out for when you compare UK car insurance policies.
There are three types of car insurance – Third Party, Third Party Fire and Theft (TPF&T) and Comprehensive.
Why compare?
When you compare car insurance, make sure you compare like with like. Third Party and TPF&T policies from different providers may be fairly similar but the additions, options and exclusions provided with Comprehensive insurance policies can vary widely. It’s important to make sure you get the cover you want – and it’s important to remember that value is more important than price – so make sure you compare every aspect of car insurance cover, not just the cost.
What do you want to cover?
The minimum legal requirement for car insurance is Third Party insurance, which covers damage or injury you cause to another vehicle and/or its driver.
Third Party Fire and Theft (TPF&T) car insurance offers Third Party cover plus damage to, or loss of, your own car through fire or theft.
Comprehensive car insurance offers TPF&T plus accidental damage caused to your own car.
Tip: make sure you’re aware of differences and similarities when you compare.
How to compare car insurance
Compare car insurance no-claims bonuses
If you don’t make a claim on your car insurance policy, you usually qualify for an annual no claims disocunt. But insurers may operate no claims discounts in different ways − and the net premium is more important than a high discount, so check around. You may be able to guarantee your no claims discount by paying a higher premium.
Tip: watch out for the differences in no-claims bonuses when you compare.
Compare car insurance excess figures
The excess (the amount you have to pay if you claim) can vary between different risks insured and can vary from provider to provider. You may be able to reduce the annual premium by agreeing to a higher excess.
Tip: watch out for the relevant excess when you compare.
Compare car insurance cover
Some Comprehensive car insurance policies are more comprehensive than others and it makes sense to check that you’re covered for what you want, when and where you want. And check what’s included and what could cost extra, in particular:
- legal expenses cover
- European insurance cover
- courtesy car in the event of accident
- personal accident cover
- cover for personal belongings
- breakdown cover (and check the extent of cover)
- any extra charges for paying your premium monthly
Tip: watch out and check the cover when you compare policies.
Compare car insurance small print
While it’s important to save money, it’s also important to make sure you get the cover you want – make sure you understand the policy!
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