Get clued up about car cover

CAR insurance can be taxing, especially if you are under 25. Comparison site comparethe market. com. au spokeswoman Abigail Koch says the cost of car insurance usually depends on how much of a risk the insurer thinks you are to cover.

So if you are a younger driver, or a parent who has to include a child on their insurance, here are Koch’s tips for keeping costs down.

1. Avoid modifications such as fat exhaust pipes, spoilers and even high- level window tinting. They can all increase your insurance premiums, or prevent some insurers from covering you altogether.

2. In- car devices known as Telematics that monitor driving behaviour and usage could help you save on premiums.

3. Agreeing to pay more than the standard excess can bring down your premium but don’t set your excess so high that you would be unable to pay if you had to make a claim.

4. Don’t make small claims as the more you use your insurance, the more your premium will increase. Submitting claims that exceed your excess by a small amount doesn’t make sense; paying for smaller losses yourself could save you money over the long term.

5. You won’t feel the benefit straight away, but if you’re a claim- free driver for at least a year then you could reduce your premium when it comes to renewal time. 6. Consider a lower level of car insurance than comprehensive, especially if your car is not worth much. Look at cover for third party property damage and third party property damage, fire and theft, but make sure you understand the differences between the cover.

7. Shop around as insurers’ premiums can differ by hundreds of dollars. Make the most of free comparison sites to help you in your search for a deal that best suits your needs.