
Car insurance in Ireland can be a significant expense, but understanding the costs can help you make informed decisions.
The cost of car insurance in Ireland varies greatly depending on the type of vehicle you drive. A study found that the average annual premium for a young driver in Ireland is around €1,500.
For most drivers, car insurance is a necessary expense, but it's essential to shop around to find the best deals. According to the Central Bank of Ireland, drivers who switch insurers can save up to €250 on their premiums.
The age of the driver also plays a significant role in determining the cost of car insurance in Ireland.
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Car Insurance Costs in Ireland
Car insurance costs in Ireland can be significantly influenced by the type of vehicle you drive, with certain models being more expensive to insure than others. This is because insurance companies consider the vehicle's make and model when determining the premium.
The insurance industry in Ireland is fiercely competitive, which means you can often get a better deal by shopping around. This is especially true if you're a driver with a clean record and a low annual mileage.
Your location can also impact your car insurance costs, as insurance companies take into account the level of risk in different areas. For example, if you live in an area with high crime rates or a history of accidents, your premium may be higher.
Comprehensive vs Third Party Insurance Pricing
Comparing quotes is a good idea to start your search. It's always a good idea to compare different quotes.
Check the price differences between comprehensive and third-party, fire & theft insurance. This is especially true if the value of the vehicle is not high.
You might not need to pay the difference for comprehensive insurance, which means you could save on your policy. This is because you only pay for the cover you need.
If your car is older or in relatively poor condition, there's little reason to purchase comprehensive cover.
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Most Expensive Cars to Insure
The bigger the engine and the bigger the car, the costlier your policy will be. This is especially true for high-performance cars, which can be very expensive to insure even if you have a spotless driving record.
Most companies want to avoid insuring certain vehicles due to their reputation and number of claims made on that make and model in the past. These vehicles often have a higher risk profile, which means your policy will be more expensive.
It's essential to call your insurer before buying a vehicle to see how much it will cost to get it covered. This will help you avoid any surprises down the line.
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Car Value
Covering your vehicle for the correct amount is crucial when it comes to car insurance in Ireland. If you overvalue your car, it could lead to higher annual premiums and potentially even more expensive claims in the future.
Overvaluing your car might seem like a minor issue, but it can cause problems down the line if you need to make a claim. This is because you'll be paying more for your premium than necessary, which could leave you out of pocket if you're not careful.
Undervaluing your car, on the other hand, could result in you not receiving the full amount of compensation if you do need to make a claim. This is why it's essential to get your car valued accurately to avoid any potential issues.
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Will Car Insurance Prices Keep Rising?
Car insurance prices in Ireland have been a topic of concern for many, but recent trends suggest that the market is starting to stabilize.
The Central Statistics Office figures on inflation show that the average car premium came down 14% in August to an average of €781 compared to €909 in August 2016.
This is the biggest drop we've seen in the cost of motor insurance since 2015, which is definitely some good news for consumers.
Government intervention is also being considered to reduce motor premium costs across the board, which could bring even more relief to drivers.
The courts have finally ruled in the Insurance Industry's favour following the collapse of Setanta, which is also a positive development for the industry.
This could be a good sign for consumers, with potential for further cost reductions in 2018.
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Factors Affecting Premium
Having a clean driving record is key to keeping your car insurance premiums low. Most insurance companies won't penalize you for having 2 penalty points on your license.
If you accumulate 4 or more penalty points, however, you can expect to pay more for your insurance. The additional premium can easily double the price of your cover.
The cleaner your driving record is, the better your chances of getting affordable car insurance. So, it's worth making a conscious effort to drive safely and avoid penalty points altogether.
Payment and Pricing Options
In Ireland, car insurance premiums can be paid monthly, quarterly, or annually, and it's essential to choose a payment frequency that suits your budget.
Monthly payments are the most common option, with premiums ranging from €60 to €120 per month for a standard policy.
If you opt for quarterly payments, your premium will be split into three equal installments, with a minimum payment of €180.
Annual payments are also available, but be aware that you'll need to pay the full premium upfront, which can be a significant expense for some drivers.
Some insurance providers in Ireland offer flexible payment plans, allowing you to pay your premium in smaller installments over a longer period, typically 6 or 12 months.
However, be aware that making multiple payments can result in higher overall costs due to interest charges.
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Compare Car Insurance in Ireland
Comparing car insurance in Ireland can be a great way to find a better deal, as the industry is fiercely competitive. This means you can shop around and potentially save money.
The main factors that influence your motor insurance premium are type of vehicle, engine size, location, driving history, age, and annual mileage.
To get the cheapest motor insurance, it's recommended to compare like with like when reviewing online car insurance prices. This will help you understand the benefits and criteria of each provider.
Shopping around can make a big difference in getting a better deal on your car insurance in Ireland.
Sources
- https://www.quotedevil.ie/news/cost-car-insurance-ireland
- https://switcher.ie/car-insurance/guides/car-insurance-types/
- https://ucompare.ie/car-insurance/monthly-car-insurance
- https://insuremycars.ie/latest-news/tips-for-cheap-car-insurance-for-first-time-drivers-over-30-in-ireland/
- https://www.compareinsuranceireland.ie/news/12-tips-on-how-to-get-cheaper-car-insurance-in-ireland/
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