Busting myths surrounding black box insurance
BLACK box – or telematics – insurance policies can help drivers access cheaper premiums as they monitor how people actually drive. In order to allay worries about this type of insurance, Admiral has come up with some myth-busters:
■ MYTH: This type of policy is just a way of ‘Big Brother watching you’
allowing insurance providers to hike premiums.
REALITY: Admiral says the emphasis isn’t on where you drive but how you drive. Devices look at factors including your driving style and measure braking, cornering and speed. They offer a chance to show you are a safe driver, and your renewal price is based on how safely you drive.
■ MYTH: I won’t be able to drive at night.
REALITY: There are certain times of day when accidents are more likely to occur, such as at night. You may not get as big a discount if you always drive at night but you could still potentially get discounts. Make sure you check with your insurance provider’s policy as
these can vary.
■ MYTH: If a bad driver borrows my car I will be penalised.
REALITY: As driving scores are generally worked out as an average during the policy, it could be unlikely to have a big effect if the car is used by another person once in a while. But, if they aren’t up to your standards – tell them!