✓ IF YOU HAVE A CAR CRASH

Legally, you need car insurance to drive, but the level of cover is up to you. Third party cover is the minimum you should have and pays damages to others for injuries to themselves, their passengers or their property if you’re involved in an accident. But it doesn’t pay out for damages to your car, theft of your car or medical expenses if you’re injured.

Fully comprehensive cover includes all of the above, as well as damage to you and your car – and it can be cheaper than third party insurance, as many high-risk drivers tend to go for lower levels of cover. Aviva’s Sarah Applegate says: ‘Comprehensive policies give the greatest protection. But check what’s covered as standard and which optional extras are available, such as courtesy car cover.’

Keep costs down: buy a car in a lower insurance group (calculated on data such as how cheap repairs will be after an accident), increase your voluntary excess and improve your car’s security. Visit comparethemarket.com for more details.