New research from Confused.com has uncovered a significant way for drivers to reduce their car insurance costs: by adding a spouse or partner to their policy, they could save an average of £315. The study further indicates that including an additional family member or partner as a named driver can lead to savings of around £117 on average.
How Adding a Driver Lowers Insurance Premiums
Car insurance premiums are typically calculated based on the risk associated with making a claim. When drivers share the responsibility with a partner or family member, this risk is spread out, which can result in lower overall costs. However, it is important to note that savings may be reduced or even eliminated if the added driver has convictions, previous claims, or limited driving experience.
Driving Dynamics and Relationships
The research also shed light on driving habits within relationships. According to the findings, 68% of men report that they drive most of the time, while 11% believe they are better drivers than their partners. Additionally, 68% of men prefer to drive themselves. On the other hand, 26% of women stated that their partner drives either too fast or too slow, highlighting that disagreements behind the wheel are common.
Expert Advice on Insurance Savings
Matt Crole-Rees, a motoring expert at Confused.com, emphasized the benefits of adding a partner to car insurance. He said, “Adding your partner to your insurance is an effective way to cut costs while sharing responsibility for driving. This can be especially useful for longer trips or in emergencies, but it’s vital to provide accurate details to avoid invalidating the policy.”
For those unable to add a partner, Crole-Rees suggested alternative methods to reduce premiums, such as shopping around early, improving car security, and providing accurate mileage estimates. Confused.com has also compiled a list of 16 strategies to help drivers save on car insurance, noting that even minor adjustments can make a substantial difference, particularly as costs continue to rise.
Additional Insights for Motorists
The study revealed that 89% of couples have added their partner to their car insurance, underscoring the popularity of this cost-saving measure. This trend aligns with broader efforts by drivers to manage expenses in an increasingly expensive market.
While the focus is on insurance savings, the research also touches on common driving issues, such as disagreements over speed and control, which can affect relationships on the road. These insights provide a comprehensive view of how driving habits and insurance decisions intersect in everyday life.
