Age – the one thing we can't escape, no matter how hard we try. And when it comes to car insurance, it can play a significant role in determining your premium. Why does it matter so much?
Youth is not always an asset
Firstly; imagine you're a young driver. You've just passed your driving test, you've got the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want. Then, alas, your newfound freedom comes at a cost – a hefty car insurance premium. Young drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents, and insurers see them as high-risk customers. So, if you're a teenager hoping to get behind the wheel of a shiny new car, be prepared to pay a pretty penny for insurance.
Then again, neither is age
It's not just young drivers who face higher premiums. As you get older, your premiums may start to rise again. Once you hit the age of 70, for example, you may find that your insurance costs start to creep up again. This is because older drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents, particularly those over the age of 80. So, it's not just the young drivers who have to watch their step on the roads.
Of course, not all older drivers are bad drivers. In fact, some older drivers may have a wealth of experience and a spotless driving record. However, unfortunately, age is often used as a crude indicator of risk, and insurers may adjust premiums accordingly.
What about those in the middle age bracket? Surely they have it easy, right? Well, not quite. The age group that typically faces the highest premiums is the 17-25 age group, but after that, premiums tend to decrease gradually until around the age of 60. After that, premiums may start to rise again.
This may seem unfair, particularly if you're a safe, experienced driver who happens to be over 60. Unfortunately, however, insurance companies are in the business of managing risk, and age is just one of many factors they use to assess risk. Other factors, such as driving record, type of car, and location, also play a significant role.
How do we improve matters?
So, what can you do to lower your premiums? Well, unfortunately, there's no magic trick to doing this, no matter what sensationalist claims you may read (and be careful; a lot of claims about extremely cheap car insurance turn out to be scams). However there are a few things you can do to help keep costs down. For example, taking an advanced driving course may help to demonstrate that you're a safe driver and reduce your risk in the eyes of insurers. Additionally, opting for a car with a smaller engine or choosing a lower insurance group may also help to save you money.
It's also worth shopping around for insurance and comparing quotes from different insurers. Don't just settle for the first quote you receive, as there may be cheaper options out there. And be sure to read the fine print carefully, as some policies may have exclusions or limitations that could catch you out.
I can't change my age - so now what?
In conclusion, age does play a significant role in determining car insurance premiums in the UK. Whilst it may seem unfair at times, insurers are simply trying to manage risk and protect themselves from losses. However; there are steps you can take to help keep your premiums down, so don't despair. And remember, age is just a number – it's the way you drive that really matters on the road.
