Chester, UK (PRWeb UK) August 21, 2009 — Young motorists opting for third-party only motor insurance in a bid to save money may find that this is no longer the way to cut the cost of their premiums, according to moneysupermarket.com.

The UK’s leading price comparison site analysed the average cost of annual motor insurance policies for male and female motorists across the age-scale. The research reveals, despite offering the lowest level of cover, third-party only is the most expensive option for motorists, especially younger drivers, followed by third party, fire and theft. Fully comprehensive policies offer the most level of cover yet the lowest premiums*.

The research found on average third-party only cover for a driver under the age of 21 is £1,434 and 50 per cent more expensive than opting for fully comprehensive insurance at £955 (see table below for what is included in third-party only, third party, fire and theft and fully comprehensive cover). The average premium for third-party fire and theft costs £1,118 and 17 per cent over the cost of fully comprehensive cover.

Steve Sweeney, head of motor insurance at moneysupermarket.com, said: “This research shatters several myths. Traditionally motorists might assume a third-party only policy will be cheaper because of the reduced levels of cover, but in recent years, drivers with a more ‘risky’ profile, such as younger motorists, have opted for this cover to keep the cost of motoring down. Providers have reacted to this perceived increase in risk by driving up the cost of third-party only cover. It really does pay to shop around and do the research to find the best car insurance policy at the best price.”

moneysupermarket.com offers the following tips to younger drivers to cut motor insurance costs:
• Shop around - The Association of British Insurers says you can save 35 per cent by comparing as few as five insurance providers.
• Buy online - Many car insurance providers offer discounts to customers that buy online.
• Mileage limit - Consider a mileage limit or to only drive at certain hours of the day.
• Car security - Make sure you have an alarm and immobiliser.
• Drive a car with a smaller engine - A newer, more reliable car that is less likely to be used by ‘boy racers’ will have a cheaper premium. Aim to drive a car like this for at least two years after passing your test - and forget about turbo-charged cars, with big spoilers, fat tyres, alloy rims and other “sexy” extras.
• Parents - If at all possible, avoid being added to a parent’s insurance policy. It prevents you from building up your own no-claims bonus. And if you are the main driver or registered keeper of the car, DO NOT insure it in your parents’ name and put yourself down as a named driver. This is known as “fronting” and in the event of an accident it could mean the claim is not paid. Moreover, the younger driver can be charged with driving without insurance.
• Pass Plus - This is a certificate where a young driver who has already passed his or her driving test receives specific lessons in night, motorway and town traffic driving; achieving Pass Plus can earn significant discounts (as much as 35%) on your car insurance.

Notes to Editors:
*Research and tables from the release are available on request but not suitable to be hosted on this site.

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For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://uk.prweb.com/releases/2009/08/prweb2774764.htm

Chester, UK (PRWeb UK) August 21, 2009 — The number of motorists getting behind the wheel uninsured has risen by a third (33 per cent) compared to 2008, according to research from moneysupermarket.com*.

The survey by the UK’s leading price comparison site found a fifth of motorists (20 per cent) admit breaking the law by driving uninsured, compared to 15 per cent in 20082; almost a tenth of motorists (nine per cent) have disregarded the law and driven their own car without insurance, while eight per cent admit to getting behind the wheel of someone else’s car when not adequately insured. A further three per cent say they have driven their own car uninsured in between renewing their insurance policy.

Men are more likely to drive uninsured, with one in four (23 per cent) admitting to it compared to 16 per cent of women. The poll also exposes younger drivers; 37 per cent of twenty-somethings say that they have driven without cover, compared to just seven per cent of those in their sixties.

Steve Sweeney, head of car insurance at moneysupermarket.com, said: “How disappointing to see so many Brits have taken to the roads uninsured - it’s a worrying thought every fifth car we see isn’t covered, and year on year the research reveals a staggering 33 per cent increase in the number of people driving uninsured**. The onset of recession may mean more motorists are unable to afford the cost of their insurance but, if hit by an uninsured vehicle, only motorists with a fully comprehensive policy will be covered by their insurer to pay for the car to be repaired, and even then they may face losing their no claims discount. Organisations such as the Motor Insurers’ Bureau offer advice on how to make a claim under the Uninsured Drivers’ Agreement***.”

“Whatever the distance driving without insurance is illegal. Anyone caught doing so could face hefty penalties which include a £200 on-the-spot fine and six points on their licence. There’s also the possibility of the car being impounded - involving a £150 collection charge and £20 per day charged for storage. If Brits are forgoing their car insurance for cost reasons it clearly is a false economy and something I would recommend avoiding.

“Uninsured motorists cost the industry £500 million each year in claims, and cause the cost of cover to rise by £30 for more responsible motorists****. By covering yourself to drive a car, you are not only protecting yourself in the event of an accident, theft or damage, but you are also safeguarding yourself against other less cautious motorists as well. The cost of running, and insuring, a car can be expensive - especially for younger drivers - however it is has never been quicker or easier to find a cheap motor insurance quote.

moneysupermarket.com’s top tips to reduce the cost of motor insurance:
• Keep it safe
Insurers look at the risk every driver presents, so you’ll get a better deal if you can reduce that risk. By keeping the car off the road at night in a garage or on a drive you make it safer, meaning your premiums will come down.
• Pick a smaller engine
If you’re struggling to pay your insurance then give some thought to the car you’re driving. The bigger and faster the vehicle, the more it will cost to insure.
• Shop around
This is one of the easiest ways to save money. Don’t assume that your current provider is giving you the best renewal quote but look at other insurers using the moneysupermarket.com car insurance comparison tool and see if you can save.
• Pass Plus
If you’re a new driver then you’re going to be the worst hit by rising prices. Take the time to sit your Pass Plus and insurers will see that you’re safer, helping you reduce your premiums by as much as 36 per cent.
• Up the excess
Agreeing to pay a higher excess, such as £500 instead of £100, can reduce your premiums. Don’t forget that this is what you will need to pay in the event of a claim, so be sure you can afford it.
• Reduce your mileage
When applying for insurance, you estimate the number of miles you’ll do each year. If you aren’t travelling much then you’ll usually pay less. That means that if you car share with a colleague or decide to take the train a couple of times a week, you can bring down the price.
• Add an older driver
If you have a partner or parent who is more experienced behind the wheel, adding them to the policy can sometimes reduce what you pay. Whatever you do, don’t make them the named driver, though. This is called fronting and could invalidate your insurance.
• Ensure it’s adequate
As you look for the lowest price, don’t be tempted to scrap things you really need. It might cost more to have a courtesy car or legal fees paid, but if you need it then include it. Skipping extras that you can’t do without will be a false economy if you do need to claim.
• Don’t commit fraud
When you’re trying to reduce what you pay, it can be very tempting to avoid telling the whole truth, but this is a dangerous tactic. By misleading your provider, you are committing insurance fraud. That means your cover isn’t valid and if you caused an accident you could be responsible for all the costs yourself.

Notes to Editors:
*Research undertaken by Opinium Research based on an online poll of 2,386 British adults between 27 February and 03 March 2009. Results have been weighted to nationally representative criteria. www.opiniumresearch.com

**Research conducted by Opinium Research in an online survey of 2,001 UK adults between 12 and 15 February 2008. Results have been weighted to nationally representative criteria.

In 2008 15 per cent of motorists admitted to the offence compared to 20 per cent in 2009.

*** Motor Insurers’ Bureau: http://www.mib.org.uk/Customer+Services/en/Accidents+in+the+UK/Uninsured+Drivers+Agreement/Uninsured+Drivers.htm

**** Motor Insurers’ Bureau: http://www.mib.org.uk/Media+Centre/en/Key+Facts/Default.htm

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For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://uk.prweb.com/releases/2009/08/prweb2774524.htm

Manchester, UK (PRWEB) August 20, 2009 — The unique product allows any policy holder with a minimum of two years no claims bonus, to protect their annual no claims discount.

In the event of an accident, drivers could see their car insurance premiums hiked by as much as £270 a year. Protection of a no-claims discount allows car insurance customers to claim on their policy without having to pay any extra for lost no claims bonuses. Motorists who take out the policy can make up to one insurance claim each year and still preserve the amount of their discount.

The new policy has been introduced by Swinton, the UK’s leading high street retailer of car insurance, to reward careful drivers without them having to wait the obligatory four or even five years imposed by other insurers.

Steve Chelton, Insurer Development Manager for Swinton, said: “At Swinton we are always looking for new innovative ways to protect our customers and help them to save money.”

“No-Claims Discount Protector plays a really important role as it covers motorists against premium hikes when they make a claim. Most car insurance providers only offer to protect a customer’s no claims discount after four or more years, but we wanted to reward our customers by reducing this to just two years.”

“Through this scheme we hope to give more drivers the opportunity to protect their no-claims discount and help them save money in the long term.”

For more information visit www.swinton.co.uk/.

For more information contact Michael Travers or Anoushka Foster at Manchester PR agency SKV Communications on 0161 838 7770.

About Swinton
• With 580 branches nationwide Swinton is the UK’s largest high street insurance retailer
• Unlike many other companies in the financial services industry, Swinton is committed to keeping its branches open for business, and part of the community
• Swinton provides a one-stop-shop for the insurance and related needs of its clients, offering home, car, caravan, business, holiday, motorbike and even classic car insurance
With a dedicated team of advisors on hand at every branch to search a panel of insurers to offer quality cover at competitive rates

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For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://www.prweb.com/releases/insurance/no-claims-discount/prweb2769984.htm

(PRWeb UK) August 15, 2009 — More and more bikers, fed up with weaving in and out of traffic at the weekend or getting held up at roundabouts by Sunday drivers, are looking for something more exciting. Lots of them are finding that off-road biking is the way to go. There are cross country courses and events throughout the UK for everyone from off-road novices to trail-hardened riders.

But while there are bikes to suit all tastes, speeds and thrust, many off-road bike owners are finding it hard to get insurance once they’ve got their bikes. A lot of insurance companies see bikes designed for off-road use as very risky. However Bikesure, the specialist motorcycle division of Adrian Flux Insurance Services, has introduced an Enduro Bike Insurance scheme designed to offer cover for all types of off-road bikes while being ridden on the public highway.

“Off-road bikes are often less of a risk than road bikes, because of the people who ride them,” explains Robert Balls of Bikesure. “They are usually experienced riders who are more careful and know what they are doing. Once we realised that, it was simple to arrange cover provided the bike is registered for road use.”

The Bikesure website, www.bikesure.co.uk, has an online quote system that compares insurance quotes from a panel of underwriters so bikers can choose the one that is best for them and then ring Bikesure to discuss finer details with a member of staff. Alternatively, by clicking the free Callback button, bikers can arrange for Bikesure to ring them, either straightaway or at a convenient time.

Most Bikesure staff are biking fanatics as well as experienced insurance executives, so they are able check out the best deal, applying their own judgement and understanding of the biking scene to get the lowest possible price for the cover that is ideally suited to a biker’s individual needs.

Many off-road bikers will also have a main road bike, so Bikesure offers a multi-bike insurance policy with a single low premium to cover all the bikes, saving time, money and paperwork. Other options include free ‘ride your mates’ bikes’ cover on some comprehensive policies, modifications and customisations cover, optional personal injury cover and optional cover for helmets, leathers and protective clothing.

“We also give discounts for being a member of a recognised owner’s club, for keeping your off-roader in a garage and for having previous off-road biking experience - among other things,” says Rob Balls. “So it really pays to get in touch with us before taking out a policy so you can be sure you’ve taken advantage of all the discounts on offer.”

Bikesure is 100% British owned and based. It has a huge range of specialist policies for the motorcycle enthusiast, including cheap bike insurance schemes for performance and custom bikes, scooters, trikes, quads and bug riders. For details freephone the Bikesure quote line on 0800 089 2000 or email the company at bikesure@adrianflux.co.uk. For more information visit www.bikesure.co.uk

Off-road bikes.doc – Aug-09
Press Enquiries:
Toni Turner or Alison Haynes at The Publicity Works
Tel: 01263 761000 Email: bikesure (at) publicityworks (dot) biz
Robert Balls at Bikesure Insurance Services: 08700 771377
Press information, digital files, photos etc., available on request from bikesure (at) publicityworks (dot) biz

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For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://uk.prweb.com/releases/of-road/bike-insurance/prweb2752434.htm

Manchester, UK (PRWEB) August 3, 2009 — Swinton is warning bikers that modifications may affect their http://www.swinton.co.uk/motor/motorcycle/[motorbike insurance premium and must be declared to their insurer.

Exhausts are the most popular modifications made to bikes and, if they are performance enhancing, can incur loading to a premium. Modifications to a bike's suspension and wheels, increasing engine capacity over 5%, custom motorcycles and a nitrous oxide injection may also affect premiums.

However some modifications have little or virtually no impact on a premium. These modifications include non-performance enhancing end-cans, crash bars, huggers, crash mushrooms, up-rated braking systems and a five percent increase in engine capacity.

Anthony Aronin, Head of Swinton Bikes, said: Bikers planning on modifying their motorbikes should always notify their insurer prior to the modification so they know exactly how much it will impact on their bike insurance premium.

“We would also advise riders protect their motor bike with a lock or tracker device which can actually reduce bike insurance quotes and premiums.”

About Swinton:
• With 580 branches nationwide Swinton is the UK’s largest high street insurance retailer
• Unlike many other companies in the financial services industry, Swinton is committed to keeping its branches open for business, and part of the community
• Swinton provides a one-stop-shop for the insurance and related needs of its clients, offering home, car, caravan, business, holiday, motorbike and even classic car insurance

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For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://www.prweb.com/releases/swinton-bike-insurance/declare-modifcations/prweb2708504.htm

Adelaide, South Australia (PRWEB) April 17, 2009 — Drivers could be encountering dangerous blind spots in many new cars, according to visibility testing by motor insurance provider SGIC. The blind spot testing involved a laser rotating 180 degrees from the driver’s seat to replicate a driver’s vision.

The scores were calculated by taking into account the position of the windscreen pillars - where the windscreen meets the side window - and how much they blocked the laser.

The car insurance provider revealed more than 80 per cent of the 138 new cars tested scored only one or two stars, including popular cars such as the Holden Commodore (one star) and Toyota Yaris sedan (one star).

The SGIC Car Blind Spot Ratings will be launched today to help demonstrate how some car designs can reduce visibility for drivers, especially at intersections, roundabouts and pedestrian crossings.

SGIC State Manager Lee Jameson acknowledged manufacturers faced a difficult design challenge when combining crash safety with visibility.

“Modern design has significantly improved crash safety for drivers and passengers in recent years,” she said. “But manufacturers may need to help drivers on the road by striking a better balance between crash safety and visibility.”

“In some new cars, a driver can lose sight of a pedestrian or cyclist from as close as nine metres and can lose sight of another car from about 20 metres,” Jameson continued.

Ms Jameson said only 14 of the cars tested had performed well in both the SGIC Car Blind Spot Ratings and the frontal crash tests for the Australian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP). She singled out the Citroen C4 Picasso and Volkswagen Golf (V), which topped the blind spot ratings with four stars and scored well with ANCAP.

“While blind spots can be dangerous, the last thing we would want to see is cars that have good visibility, but poor protection in a serious crash,” she said.

Ms Jameson said it was encouraging more than 80 per cent of South Australian drivers were aware of blind spots on their own car so they could take steps to avoid a collision*.

“Drivers should always be aware of any blind spots on their cars and be prepared to look around them when necessary,” she said. “We would also encourage consumers to consider all safety aspects - including visibility - when shopping for a new car.”

To see the full results of the SGIC Car Blind Spot Ratings, visit sgic.com.au.

*Based on research commissioned by SGIC in February 2009.

About SGIC
SGIC is a South Australian provider of home insurance, car insurance, motor insurance and more.

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For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://www.prweb.com/releases/car-insurance/motorcycle-insurance/prweb2330414.htm

(Vocus) February 16, 2009 — Dealers have given Bikesure’s affiliate scheme the big ‘thumbs up’ with a significant increase in members, and commission generated, over the past six months. The rise follows the launch in 2008 of Bikesure’s dealer-customised mini websites and landing pages. When customers arrive on the Bikesure site, either by clicking through from the dealer’s own site or by using a dealer-specific web address, they land on a page that’s all about the dealer.

“The complete package we’ve put together for dealers is very powerful,” says Rob Balls of Bikesure. “Obviously the key benefit is the £30 commission for each successful quote, but we’ve worked really hard to build in lots of other benefits for both dealers and their customers. For the dealer the scheme is stress-free, while for the customer it means getting insured is easy and the price is highly competitive.”

When a customer clicks through to the dealer’s page on the Bikesure site and subsequently takes out insurance, the system automatically assigns the £30 fee to the appropriate dealer.

Midland Superbikes (www.midlandsuperbikes.co.uk) has been a member of Bikesure’s affiliate scheme for about six years. The dealer’s Operations Manager Stuart Fox is even more familiar with Bikesure, having been a customer himself for more than 18 years.

“We have a link on our website that goes to our customised page on the Bikesure site,” says Stuart. “We find them very competitive and most of our customers can get covered – Bikesure are proactive and know the market well, so they can cope with just about any problems we throw at them! We’ll sometimes sit customers down at a computer in the showroom and let them sort their cover out online, there and then. Bikesure offer loads of specialist schemes, too – their multi-bike policy is especially good.

“The dealer affiliate system is excellent – in fact it’s all automatic, we don’t really need to get involved at all. When you’re trying to sort out insurance for a customer you want things to be as simple and easy as possible. The Bikesure system offers the route of least resistance and minimum hassle.
“The bottom line? It really works.”

Taz Motorcycles of Peterborough (www.tazmotorcycles.co.uk) switched to the Bikesure affiliate scheme recently because of the broker’s superior customer service. Richard Swords, who’s in sales and finance at Taz, says the scheme provides solid advantages. “We try to get all our customers to talk to Bikesure because we know they are very fast, competitive and will give them great back-up. Plus, they deliver a really good service to us. In fact, we can get cover set up pretty much instantly.
“We try to offer a ‘one stop shop’ for customers,” adds Richard. “Bikesure are an important part of the package. Other insurance brokers are contacting us all the time to try to get the gig but Bikesure are best for customer service, that’s why we stick with them.”

Bikesure’s online referral scheme runs in parallel with the company’s telephone referral scheme - so customers have a choice of arranging insurance by phone or via the web. Either way, Bikesure pays the dealer the commission fee. Dealers can track how well their online scheme is doing by logging in to their personal affiliate homepage, to see how many clicks and sales their customers have generated.

Find out about the Bikesure scheme by downloading the “Easy Guide to using the Bikesure Affiliate Scheme” from the dealer section at www.bikesure.co.uk

Bikesure is 100% British-owned and is part of Adrian Flux Insurance Services. It has a huge range of specialist policies for the motorcycle enthusiast, including schemes for trikes and quads. For details of its dealer support service call Bikesure on 0845 367 9000, email the company at bikesure@adrianflux.co.uk or visit www.bikesure.co.uk

PRESS ENQUIRIES:
Toni Turner Or Alison Haynes At The Publicity Works: (01263) 761000
Robert Balls At Bikesure Insurance Services: (08700) 771377

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For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2009/02/prweb2082504.htm