Purchasing your first car as a young driver is a significant milestone. Finally getting to be the person behind the wheel and claiming your independence is an exhilarating experience, but it also comes with responsibilities that can be as overwhelming as it is exciting.
Numerous scenarios can occur on the road that can cause unexpected damage to you or your car. For this reason, it is crucial to make sure you have the right Car Insurance to keep you financially prepared for every outcome. Yet when it comes to Car Insurance, there are plenty of pitfalls you may experience if you’re not careful and neglect to consider all your options.
Whether you’re new to the highways or just unfamiliar with insurance policies, we’ve gathered 5 of the most common mistakes to know and avoid when choosing your first car insurance policy.
Choosing Third-Party Cover Without Considering All the Risks
While third-party insurance may often be the cheapest option, many young drivers in Ireland find that it doesn’t cover all the basics they need. Third-party cover only protects you for damage you cause to other people’s property, not your own. If you’re driving a newer car or one you rely on, you might want to consider opting for more extensive coverage... one that includes your vehicle, too!
What to do instead: Consider comprehensive insurance, especially if having to replace or repair your car would be an unwelcome expense. Don’t fret! Comprehensive policies provide you with peace of mind, covering your car for damage resulting from accidents, theft, and more, for that extra layer of protection.
Not Declaring All Drivers and Usage
Young drivers tend to want to keep costs as low as possible, and a route often taken for that is omitting information, such as the number of drivers using the vehicle, or its intended use. However, cutting corners on who is covered can lead to much more serious trouble later down the road. In Ireland, car insurance policies are strict on named drivers and the type of car use covered. If a person who is not listed on your policy drives your car, or you use the car outside the declared purpose, you might not be covered in the event of an accident.
What to do instead: List all regular drivers on your policy and be upfront about how you’ll be using the car. Cornmarket’s policies are tailored for young drivers, and with an honest approach, you’ll be covered exactly how you need to be.
Not Comparing Quotes
Insurance premiums can vary widely across providers in Ireland, particularly for younger drivers. Many young drivers will opt for the first option they find without shopping around, but in doing so, you might actually be settling for a much lower value deal than you could be getting. By conducting some brief research and comparing quotes, you can ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
What to do instead: Use our handy online quote tool, which will show you a range of great policy options, or speak to one of experienced representatives. We have over 50 years’ experience and can help you compare options, so you’re not just getting any deal, you’re getting the right one for you!
Overlooking Policy Excess Amounts
Excess is the amount you pay out of your pocket in the event of a claim. If you have a high excess, you may end up paying more out of pocket when it matters most. Young drivers are typically likely to choose a lower premium with a high excess but can fail to consider how much they might have to pay out of their own pocket if they ever happen to be in an accident.
What to do instead: Check the excess amount on any policy you’re considering. We offer flexible excess options that let you adjust according to your budget and comfort level, so you can strike the right balance between your premium and potential costs down the road.
Skipping Breakdown Assistance or Windscreen Cover
It’s tempting to keep your premium as low as possible by skipping certain optional add-ons, but this can lead to large costs in the event of an unforeseen problem. Breakdown assistance, for example, can be invaluable on bumpy, slippery Irish roads - especially for young drivers with older cars. Similarly, windscreen cover may seem minor, but in cases where a crack or chip transpires, it can save you a lot of hassle and cost.
What to do instead: Think carefully about which add-ons are right for you. Consider how long you’ll have this car for and how far you plan on driving before dismissing add-ons to your car insurance.
Cornmarket’s policies offer options such as breakdown assistance and windscreen cover that can make a real difference if something goes wrong.
Ready to get started?
Buying car insurance for the first time doesn’t have to be a challenge, and you definitely don’t have to do it alone!
At Cornmarket, we understand the unique needs of young Irish drivers. Our policies are designed to meet you where you are and make sure you’re covered when it counts. Reach out to one of our representatives to get a quote or compare options tailored to fit your needs and budget, we’d be happy to help!
Get in touch today: (01) 408 6226