We know that sometimes you need to add extra drivers to your car insurance policy. But before you do, it's essential to understand how this change can affect your cover and premium. We've put together this handy guide to help you weigh up the pros and cons of adding additional drivers to your UK car insurance policy.
The perks
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Save on premiums for young or inexperienced drivers: By adding a driver with more experience and a clean driving record to your policy, you might be able to lower the premium for younger or less experienced drivers. Insurance companies like to see the risk shared amongst drivers, so they'll be happier knowing that an experienced driver is part of the mix.
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Sharing is caring: With multiple drivers on one policy, you can easily share your vehicle with family members or friends without the fuss of having separate insurance policies.
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More coverage, more peace of mind: Additional drivers will be covered under your policy, so they'll be protected when driving your vehicle.
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Keep that no-claims discount intact: If you've opted for no-claims discount protection, an accident caused by an additional driver won't affect your precious discount.
The potential downsides
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Premiums could go up: Depending on the age and driving history of the additional driver, your premium might increase. Insurance providers look at the overall risk for all drivers on the policy when working out the premium.
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Claims history is shared: If an additional driver needs to make a claim, it'll go on the policyholder's insurance history. This might affect future premiums and even the ability to get insurance.
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They could affect your no-claims discount: If an additional driver has an accident and you don't have no-claims discount protection, your discount could shrink, pushing your premiums up.
Top tips to consider
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Choose your drivers carefully: Check the driving history and experience of potential additional drivers. Adding them to your policy might not be worth it if they have a history of accidents or convictions and could make your policy more expensive.
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Short and sweet: If you only need an additional driver for a brief period, consider temporary or short-term insurance policies as an alternative.
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Keep your cover in check: When adding an additional driver, review your policy to make sure it provides the right coverage for everyone involved.
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Keep your insurer in the loop: Always let your insurer know about any changes, like adding or removing drivers from your policy. This will help avoid any complications if you need to make a claim.
Keep in mind
Be honest about who's driving your car the most. If you add an experienced driver to your policy just to lower the premium, but they're not the primary driver, you're committing "fronting" - a type of fraud. This can lead to a cancelled policy, a refused claim, and even legal trouble.
Conclusion
Adding extra drivers to your UK car insurance policy can be a smart move, offering benefits like lower premiums for young drivers and greater convenience. But remember to weigh up the risks, such as higher premiums and a shared claims history. By picking additional drivers wisely and considering other options, you'll be making a savvy decision that works best for you. Happy saving!