A car expert has debunked four common car insurance myths to help drivers not get caught out. 

Motorists across the country know just how many things they need to consider when picking out a policy. 

With the continued strain of the cost of living crisis, drivers are especially conscious right now about saving money where they can and getting the best deal available.  

There are several misconceptions out there about obtaining cheaper premiums, a team of motoring experts has warned.

Whether you're looking to take out a new policy or you're about to renew your car insurance, the experts at Vertu Motors have debunked some common insurance myths.  

Is it illegal to put someone else as a main driver to lower the cost of insurance?

Yes, it is a myth that you can add someone else like a parent as the main driver to lower the cost. In fact, it is illegal.

The team commented: "New drivers typically have to contend with inflated insurance premiums when they first get on the road.

"To reduce this cost, some may attempt to declare their parents, who have years of road experience, as the main driver of the car.

"However, this is an illegal act and could result in a £5,000 fine and six points on your licence". 

Instead, the experts recommend reviewing whether covering an extra driver, with a good driving history, will help reduce your premium rates.

However, you must make sure that they are not listed as the main driver. 

Is car insurance cheaper in rural areas?

No, it is a myth that rural locations have much cheaper car insurance premiums. 

The experts said: "Drivers who spend time at two or more addresses, such as students or young people with separated parents, may be tempted to list the address on their policy as whichever is in the most rural area. 

"After all, densely populated areas with higher crime rates typically have more expensive premiums.

"However, it is not a forgone conclusion that living in a more remote location automatically results in cheaper car insurance".  

The team also noted that there is still a chance that living in a rural area could result in a higher premium, particularly if there is a high volume of accidents in that location.

Vertu Motors continued: "There may be other risks, such as wild animals on the road, or if the road is prone to treacherous conditions, that impact the price. 

"It is best for your policy to be accurate, so opt for the address that you and your car will spend the most time at.

"This should also be aligned with where you are registered to vote, as many insurers use the electoral role for ID-checking". 

It is cheaper to find a good car insurance deal and stick with that provider?

 

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The team at Vertu Motors suggests shopping around and comparing car insurance policies to find the best deals. 

The experts advised: "About a month before your policy is up for renewal, take your time reviewing different insurers and policies to see where you can save the most money. 

"However, you should bear in mind that, in January 2022, the FCA introduced a new law for car insurance.

"The law means that any customers renewing their insurance cannot be charged more than the price new customers would be charged for the equivalent policy.

"As a result, the rise in premium rates year on year will be less significant than it has been for drivers in the past.

"So, when doing your research for renewal, don’t forget to include your current provider in any cost comparisons". 

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Does a black box make car insurance cheaper?

The experts explained that while black boxes do help to cut costs for careful drivers, many believe – and are put off – by the idea that black boxes impose curfews on motorists.

However, the team advised that while this has been true in the past, especially on early black box polices, it is no longer the case.  

They added: "Instead, black boxes are now used to record your driving data, including information like speed, braking, the time of day you drive, and how sharply you turn corners.  

"While they might not have a curfew limitation, they can impact your insurance.

"If you drive sensibly, your insurance could be cheaper, as you are considered a ‘low-risk driver’ and less likely to make a claim.

"The opposite is also true, with reckless driving potentially causing your premium to go up".