Why Does Age Matter in Car Insurance?
In the intricate world of car insurance, age plays a pivotal role in determining premiums. But why? Insurers often equate age with experience. Typically, the more years you’ve spent behind the wheel, the better you’re thought to understand the nuances of the road. Yet, as drivers age, other factors, like reflexes or sight, might come into the mix, influencing insurers’ assessments.
Do Older Drivers Get Better Deals?
You might think older drivers always secure better deals, but that’s not the full picture. Many older drivers benefit from a long history of no claims, which can often translate into discounts. However, once drivers cross a certain age threshold, sometimes in their late 70s or early 80s, premiums might begin to rise again. This uptick often correlates with statistical data suggesting potential increased risks.
What Benefits Await Mature Drivers?
For older drivers with a clean record, several benefits beckon. Many insurers in the UK offer discounts for no claims histories. Additionally, some providers offer specific policies tailored to mature drivers, encompassing features like breakdown cover or policies that consider reduced annual mileage.
How Can Older Drivers Secure the Best Deals?
Navigating the best deals requires some savvy strategies, regardless of age:
- Shop Around: Don’t just renew; compare different insurers to find competitive rates.
- Consider Telematics: A black box policy, which assesses driving behaviour, might offer a better rate for safe older drivers.
- Check for Discounts: Always ask about specific discounts for mature drivers or no claims bonuses.
- Enhance Your Vehicle’s Security: Investing in additional security features for your car could reduce premiums.
- Limit Mileage: Some policies might offer reductions for decreased annual mileage if you’re driving less.
Remember, while age can influence your car insurance premiums, it’s just one of many factors. By being proactive, older drivers can often secure favourable rates and enjoy their time on the road with peace of mind.
Is car insurance cheaper for older drivers?
When calculating your premium, age is just one of the many factors that are considered by your insurance provider. For younger drivers, this can be problematic, but for those with potentially decades of experience behind the wheel, this can be rewarded with a reduction in your overall costs. This is not, however, always the case. For those with expensive or powerful cars, premiums can still be quite expensive. Similarly, as you get over the age of 70, prices can be seen to rise again.
Despite older driver car insurance being much cheaper overall, it is still worth shopping around. Even if you feel as though you have a great deal, you might find an even better one somewhere else.
Why does age come into it?
Statistically, drivers over 50 are much safer drivers than those within the 17 to 25-year-old bracket. This is largely because of the experience that many have accumulated on the road by this point. This comes down to statistics, such as older drivers tending to avoid driving when most accidents happen, as well as just driving fewer miles than those that are younger. This is why insurers regard older drivers as less of a risk and will tend to reflect this in their quotes. Find out more about how insurers understand age’s effect on premiums here.
Is it more difficult to get insurance as an older driver?
Older drivers shouldn’t find it too difficult to get insured, in general. For those that have been refused cover due to road-related criminal convictions or health conditions declared to the DVLA, things may be less simple. This goes for people of all ages though and just because you have been denied by one company does not mean that the same applies elsewhere.
For drivers over the age of 70, you will need to reapply for your license every three years with a medical declaration. This is generally, however, quite an easy process.
Older Driver Insurance Comparison
Finding the right deal should still be a priority even if you have been offered what appears to be a good deal. Fill out our form above to find a quote that compares a wide range of insurers in a matter of minutes, or contact us to find out more.