14 May 2007
Young drivers are paying up to 132% more than the national average for their car insurance, according to recent figures from the price comparison and switching website uSwitch.com.
Motorists between the ages of 17 to 21 years old make up just 4.2% of the driving market, yet they cause around 16% of motoring offences and 34% of dangerous driving offences.
Currently, the average amount spent on car insurance by those in the young drivers bracket is £948 - £539 more than the national average. What is more, young drivers could end up paying far more than they need to if they don't spend some time researching the best car insurers.
"Young drivers do get a raw deal when it comes to insuring their cars," admitted Aron Thompson, Head of Insurance at uSwitch.com
"While they are typically deemed a more risky group of drivers because of their lack of experience on the roads and the prevalence of dangerous driving, unfortunately all young people, even if they are sensible drivers, get tarnished with the same brush."
Mr Thompson said that there were several ways young drivers could bring their premiums down, including taking a Pass Plus driving test or by having a black box installed in their vehicle.
"It is also worth looking into specialist insurers for young drivers as they will often come up with better deals," he added. "Young drivers really should shop around to make sure they find the best cover and policy features to suit their individual needs."
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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