Bringing a child into the world is one of the most joyful and biggest moments in a person’s life. However, while your mind will be naturally occupied with tending to your newborn, many car owners aren’t aware how having a baby can have an impact on their car insurance. Although this life-altering change will make a difference to your insurance, this doesn’t necessarily mean that your premiums will go up. Here are five ways having children can affect your car insurance.
Babies Mean Discounts
As a new parent, there are tons of lifestyle changes that you will need to make in order to keep your little one safe and protected. Having a baby changes everything, so there are various alterations you should make, such as the type of car you drive. As you begin to grow your brood, you will need to purchase a larger car to accommodate the whole family. It’s only natural that you will want to keep your nearest and dearest out of any harm, therefore, many people opt to get safer cars which helps to lower your car insurance premium.
Fewer Miles Driven
As your little one grows up, there are tons of activities that your child will become interested in. Whether it be school activities, or joining a local sports club, it’s likely that the number of miles you drive will decrease, especially as these activities are usually located nearby. In fact, when you have a newborn, many parents try to steer clear of long car journeys. The fewer miles you drive, the less chance you have of being in an accident, meaning that your car insurer will likely offer you a lower premium.
Higher Rates of Homeownership
Those who have children are more likely to own their own home over those who do not, or are yet to have a family. In most instances, owning your own property can have a big impact on your car insurance, helping you to scoop a discount, especially if you choose to bundle your car and homeowner’s insurance together. Car insurers are more likely to take you seriously if you own your own property.
More Responsible Behaviour
As a parent, you will have a whole new set of roles and responsibilities when it comes to tending to your newborn. Teaching them how to stay safe and out of danger can show that you are mature and responsible, helping you to save money on your car insurance. As you venture into parenthood, it’s likely that you will opt for more sensible transportation, meaning that the sports cars and grand touring cars are a thing of the past. Showing that you are responsible can bring huge rewards, especially when it comes to finding car insurance that is affordable.
Teens Can Receive Discounts Too
Many parents want their kids to stay young for as long as they can, however, once your kids enter into their teens, you may not realise the benefits that you both can receive on car insurance, especially when they make the step to take up driving lessons. Signing your teen up to a recognised driving school, as well as enrolling them in an accredited driving training course can help them be safer on the road, meaning that car insurers will take them more seriously and offer lower premiums. There are also discounts that students can receive on their car insurance, especially if they are achieving good grades at school.
Finding Car Insurance
When searching for the best car insurance available, it’s important to shop around, rather than picking the first one you see. Using a comparison website can allow you to search through multiple providers at once, for instance CompareNI.com gives you access to over 75 insurance providers. You will be shown the cheapest insurance quote at the top of the list, as well as have the option to review any policy extras. Getting a variety of options is incredibly important, especially if you are a parent and want to save money on your car insurance. CompareNI.com also provide home insurance and breakdown cover, which are both useful things when you become a parent.
As a parent, your car may be your lifesaver when it comes to getting around and picking up the essentials. With your sole focus being on keeping your child safe, it’s likely that you will get rid of the sports car and opt for something more practical and sensible, which can be a great way for car insurers to take you more seriously. While car insurance may be the last thing on your mind, it doesn’t hurt to make small but notable lifestyle changes, especially on the type of car you drive. Getting the best car insurance policy available can cut down on your monthly expenses, giving you more time to focus on your nearest and dearest.
