An car insurance expert has revealed the biggest error British motorists make when purchasing protection cover for their vehicle — and it could be costing you an absolute fortune
Brits have been warned over a little-known error people make when buying car insurance that could have a significant impact on the amount they pay.
Much like in the early days of a relationship, coming across as needy won’t do you any favours. Now is a great time to buy car insurance, as data from price comparison website Confused.com and WTW revealed that the cost has tumbled to a two-year low.
With this in mind, car finance specialist Tom Riley, owner of Simple PCP Claims, has provided some sage advice to ensure you get the best price possible. The expert explained that a great many motorists are falling into the trap of leaving their insurance renewal or new policy purchase until the very last minute, which can be a very costly mistake.
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“Most people leave buying their car insurance until the last minute,” the ace said. “But if you’re starting your policy tomorrow, you’re essentially telling insurers you’re desperate — and they’ll charge accordingly. Insurance companies know that last-minute buyers haven’t had time to shop around properly. They can afford to charge more because you need coverage immediately.”
So, by planning ahead and giving yourself plenty of time before your policy starts, you are far more likely to secure a better deal. Tom also provided another lesser-known tip — the day of the week you choose for your policy to begin can also influence the price. He recommends opting for a Sunday start date whenever possible.
This small adjustment could make a noticeable difference to your annual premium. He advised: “Sunday policies are consistently cheaper than weekday starts. It is a quirk of the system that most drivers do not know about.”
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Tom also recommends that adding an experienced named driver to the policy can lead to substantial savings — even if they are not a family member. This is a simple way to reduce costs without compromising on coverage. “A named driver with a clean record and years of experience can bring down your premium significantly,” he added. “They don’t need to live with you or be related.”
Another important factor is your job title. Tom pointed out that small changes in how you describe your occupation could affect your insurance costs: “A ‘chef’ might pay more than a ‘kitchen staff member’, even though they’re essentially the same job. It’s worth experimenting with different but accurate descriptions.”
With the cost of car insurance at a two-year low, these straightforward strategies could save drivers hundreds of pounds each year. But the biggest secret? According to Tom, you need to set your insurance start date at least 20 days in the future — 23 days being the sweet spot.
He advised: “Start shopping around a month before your policy expires. Buy 23 days in advance, and don’t be afraid to tweak your job description. These small changes add up to serious savings.”
Ultimately, a little forward planning and attention to detail could leave British drivers significantly better off. You never want to leave it until the last 24 hours, as then you’re at the mercy of car insurance providers — who will see you coming a mile away when you are desperate.
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