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Daily Mirror
15 hours ago
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
Drivers issued 24 hour car insurance policy warning as Brits make costly mistake
An car insurance expert has revealed the biggest error British motorists make when purchasing protection cover for their vehicle — and it could be costing you an absolute fortune Brits have been warned over a little-known error people make when buying car insurance that could have a significant impact on the amount they pay. Much like in the early days of a relationship, coming across as needy won't do you any favours. Now is a great time to buy car insurance, as data from price comparison website and WTW revealed that the cost has tumbled to a two-year low. With this in mind, car finance specialist Tom Riley, owner of Simple PCP Claims, has provided some sage advice to ensure you get the best price possible. The expert explained that a great many motorists are falling into the trap of leaving their insurance renewal or new policy purchase until the very last minute, which can be a very costly mistake. "Most people leave buying their car insurance until the last minute," the ace said. "But if you're starting your policy tomorrow, you're essentially telling insurers you're desperate — and they'll charge accordingly. Insurance companies know that last-minute buyers haven't had time to shop around properly. They can afford to charge more because you need coverage immediately." So, by planning ahead and giving yourself plenty of time before your policy starts, you are far more likely to secure a better deal. Tom also provided another lesser-known tip — the day of the week you choose for your policy to begin can also influence the price. He recommends opting for a Sunday start date whenever possible. This small adjustment could make a noticeable difference to your annual premium. He advised: "Sunday policies are consistently cheaper than weekday starts. It is a quirk of the system that most drivers do not know about." Tom also recommends that adding an experienced named driver to the policy can lead to substantial savings — even if they are not a family member. This is a simple way to reduce costs without compromising on coverage. "A named driver with a clean record and years of experience can bring down your premium significantly," he added. "They don't need to live with you or be related." Another important factor is your job title. Tom pointed out that small changes in how you describe your occupation could affect your insurance costs: "A 'chef' might pay more than a 'kitchen staff member', even though they're essentially the same job. It's worth experimenting with different but accurate descriptions." With the cost of car insurance at a two-year low, these straightforward strategies could save drivers hundreds of pounds each year. But the biggest secret? According to Tom, you need to set your insurance start date at least 20 days in the future — 23 days being the sweet spot. He advised: "Start shopping around a month before your policy expires. Buy 23 days in advance, and don't be afraid to tweak your job description. These small changes add up to serious savings." Ultimately, a little forward planning and attention to detail could leave British drivers significantly better off. You never want to leave it until the last 24 hours, as then you're at the mercy of car insurance providers — who will see you coming a mile away when you are desperate.
Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
If you're about to renew your car insurance you could be in for nice surprise
Millions of motorists are benefitting from cheaper insurance - but the research also shows those who stick with the same provider might actually be stung with a rise The cost of car insurance has tumbled to a more than two year low, welcome figures have revealed. Motorists have got used to seeing their annual premiums spiral in recent years, especially in the wake of the Covid crisis. It was just another hit in the cost of living crisis. But it seems like we have turned a corner, with prices well and truly heading in the right direction. Data from price comparison website along with WTW, found drivers can now expect to pay an average of £757 a year for their car insurance. This is a £144 - 16% - less than a year ago. The figures are based on more than six million quotes. At the end of 2023, the average premium was £995 - the highest recorded by the car insurance price index. This means prices have fallen by £238 in just 18 months. Younger drivers - who typically have the highest premiums - are now benefitting from the biggest savings. According to to the research, the average 17-year-old will still be shelling out £2,051 a year for insurance. But that is £775 - around 27% - less than 12 months ago. It is the biggest yearly drop for this age group in more than a decade. It is not just younger drivers who are seeing a significant fall in prices. According to the index, a typical 46-year-old has bagged a prices drop of £154 - 18%. This brings the average price for drivers of this age to £688. Not that everyone will have seen prices fall. If you've had your renewable quote and it's gone then you are not alone. Research shows not all drivers are seeing these savings at renewal - especially those staying with the same insurer. Nearly half of UK drivers claim their renewal price has increased in the past 12 months. Those who faced higher renewal prices said they were being asked to shell out an average £79 more than last year. Meanwhile, those who were offered a cheaper renewal price said it was only £57 less than the year before. The disparity highlights the importance of shopping around before you go with a quote. Rhydian Jones, motoring expert at said: 'Car insurance prices have been dropping for some time now - and this is great news for those who are due to renew soon. 'Our latest data shows that the cost of a new policy, on average, is £144 cheaper compared to last year. But some customers aren't seeing the same savings in their renewal price from their insurer. 'When it comes to your renewal, your premium price might go down - or it might stay about the same. But as average prices drop, insurers can become more competitive, which means you could get a cheaper price elsewhere. It's important not to just stick with a price because it looks good - you could be missing out on a lot of money.' Save money on your car insurance has produced some tips on getting the best savings. Shop around early Research shows most drivers look to renew their car insurance about 15 days on average before it runs out. But further data shows that the sweet spot to get the best price is around three weeks before renewal. So, getting a quote just that little more in advance could help you find a better deal. Be accurate with your mileage Trying to lower your premium by underestimating your mileage can actually cost more. For example, drivers who report 5,000 miles per year pay an average of £809, while those driving 10,000 miles are paying an average of £746. Always be honest about your mileage when taking out insurance. If you exceed your annual mileage, you could risk invalidating your policy. Consider sharing the driving Adding a named driver to your policy, especially one with more experience, could help save money on your insurance. Data shows that those listed as the sole driver on their policy pay an average of £853 for car insurance. In comparison, those with an additional driver pay £735. The savings can be even cheaper if the additional driver is a spouse, with average premiums dropping to £534, on average. However, if you're adding a named driver to your policy, it's important to ensure that the policy holder is the main driver of the car - not the named drivers. Having a named driver as the main driver is a form of insurance fraud, called fronting, and can carry serious consequences.
Powys County Times
11-06-2025
- Automotive
- Powys County Times
Are average speed cameras always on? This might surprise you
The UK has over 7,000 speed cameras dotted around on our roads, but are they always on? These cameras are found on various roads with designated speed limits, including those with limits of 20mph, 30mph, 40mph, 50mph, and national speed limit zones like motorways. Typically, we would always assume that if we passed a speed camera, it was on. But this is not always the case. British people may be divided, grumpy and rude to one another in day to day life, but spot a mobile speed camera van, and suddenly we all pull together and have each others backs. Humanity is an absolute hoot. 😂 — Jodie (@jodie_rhianon) March 14, 2025 Are average speed cameras always on? According to Arnold Clark: "It is normally safe to assume that, if you see an average speed camera, it is on and it can see you. "There is only one exception to this rule. If average speed cameras have been set up for some roadworks, there may be a few days after the roadworks are finished where the cameras are still set up. "In this very unique situation (or any other reason for the cameras not to be working), there will be 'Average cameras not in use' signs informing you that the cameras are not working. Beyond this, yes, the cameras are always on." 'Ultra speed camera' can see inside driver's vehicles The Jenoptik VECTOR-SR is the latest in speed camera tech. It can catch drivers speeding on either side of the road, and see inside cars. This means it can catch drivers who aren't wearing a seatbelt or using a mobile phone while driving. The cameras don't flash either, so it might be difficult for motorists to tell if they've been caught. Louise Thomas, a motor insurance expert at said: 'Ultra speed cameras are a big advance in comparison to the standard speed camera which many drivers are used to.
South Wales Guardian
10-06-2025
- Automotive
- South Wales Guardian
Are average speed cameras always on? This might surprise you
These cameras are found on various roads with designated speed limits, including those with limits of 20mph, 30mph, 40mph, 50mph, and national speed limit zones like motorways. Typically, we would always assume that if we passed a speed camera, it was on. But this is not always the case. British people may be divided, grumpy and rude to one another in day to day life, but spot a mobile speed camera van, and suddenly we all pull together and have each others backs. Humanity is an absolute hoot. 😂 According to Arnold Clark: "It is normally safe to assume that, if you see an average speed camera, it is on and it can see you. "There is only one exception to this rule. If average speed cameras have been set up for some roadworks, there may be a few days after the roadworks are finished where the cameras are still set up. "In this very unique situation (or any other reason for the cameras not to be working), there will be 'Average cameras not in use' signs informing you that the cameras are not working. Beyond this, yes, the cameras are always on." The Jenoptik VECTOR-SR is the latest in speed camera tech. It can catch drivers speeding on either side of the road, and see inside cars. This means it can catch drivers who aren't wearing a seatbelt or using a mobile phone while driving. The cameras don't flash either, so it might be difficult for motorists to tell if they've been caught. Louise Thomas, a motor insurance expert at said: 'Ultra speed cameras are a big advance in comparison to the standard speed camera which many drivers are used to. Recommended reading: "Not only will these cameras be able to detect drivers speeding on either side of the road, but they're also able to see inside driver's vehicles too. "That's as it uses technology to see if drivers are wearing their seatbelt or if they're breaking driving laws, such as using their mobile phone or other handheld devices. 'Some drivers might be concerned about these new cameras being an invasion of their privacy, but their purpose is to keep all road users safe.
Rhyl Journal
10-06-2025
- Automotive
- Rhyl Journal
Are average speed cameras always on? This might surprise you
These cameras are found on various roads with designated speed limits, including those with limits of 20mph, 30mph, 40mph, 50mph, and national speed limit zones like motorways. Typically, we would always assume that if we passed a speed camera, it was on. But this is not always the case. British people may be divided, grumpy and rude to one another in day to day life, but spot a mobile speed camera van, and suddenly we all pull together and have each others backs. Humanity is an absolute hoot. 😂 According to Arnold Clark: "It is normally safe to assume that, if you see an average speed camera, it is on and it can see you. "There is only one exception to this rule. If average speed cameras have been set up for some roadworks, there may be a few days after the roadworks are finished where the cameras are still set up. "In this very unique situation (or any other reason for the cameras not to be working), there will be 'Average cameras not in use' signs informing you that the cameras are not working. Beyond this, yes, the cameras are always on." The Jenoptik VECTOR-SR is the latest in speed camera tech. It can catch drivers speeding on either side of the road, and see inside cars. This means it can catch drivers who aren't wearing a seatbelt or using a mobile phone while driving. The cameras don't flash either, so it might be difficult for motorists to tell if they've been caught. Louise Thomas, a motor insurance expert at said: 'Ultra speed cameras are a big advance in comparison to the standard speed camera which many drivers are used to. Recommended reading: "Not only will these cameras be able to detect drivers speeding on either side of the road, but they're also able to see inside driver's vehicles too. "That's as it uses technology to see if drivers are wearing their seatbelt or if they're breaking driving laws, such as using their mobile phone or other handheld devices. 'Some drivers might be concerned about these new cameras being an invasion of their privacy, but their purpose is to keep all road users safe.
