Car insurance for learner drivers – are you covered?
Learning to drive is an exciting time. You’re gaining a new life-long skill, as well as navigating a path to greater independence. But before you hop into the driver’s seat you might want to think about whether you’re covered or not, just in case you get into an accident. Here’s the run-down on what you need to know about learner’s insurance.
Are you covered under your parents' car insurance policy?
Did you know that you could be covered under your parents’ existing car insurance policy? In fact, many comprehensive or third party insurance policies cover learner drivers. Check with your parent or guardian about their insurance cover and policy.
Remember to notify the insurer once you move onto your P-plates. You may have to be noted as an additional driver on the vehicle owner’s car insurance policy, and this might affect things like their premium and excess.
If a learner, young or inexperienced driver is driving at the time of an incident, you may have to pay an additional excess. Check your policy documents to find out what excesses apply to your cover.
Car insurance for young drivers
While you may be looking forward to taking your own car for a drive, you could run the risk of having to fork out big out-of-pocket expenses if you’re involved in an accident.
Young people are more likely to have accidents; a 17-year-old driver with a P-plate licence is four times more likley to be involved in a fatal car crash than a driver over 26 years of age*. So whether you’re learning to drive in a weary old car or you’ve got some sleek wheels, AAMI has a range of insurance options to suit young drivers.
How to choose the right car insurance as a young driver
When searching for the right level of car insurance, you’ll require an understanding of the different types of cover. Of course, your decision will be based on your own unique needs, and factors like where you live, what car you’re driving and what you’re earning.
Car insurance coverage usually includes:
- Comprehensive Car Insurance, which can cover the cost of repairs for damaged sustained by both parties in an accident, and against theft and natural events.
- Third Party Car Insurance, which can cover the cost of repairs for damages to another party’s vehicle or property if you’re at-fault. This usually incudes cover against Fire and Theft for an additional cost.
- CTP Insurance, which is a legal requirement in Australian states when you register your car. Also called Green Slip in NSW, CTP Insurance can cover the costs for which you’re liable if someone is injured in a car accident for which you’re responsible.
It’s worth checking the policy documents to get an idea of what is and isn’t covered.
How to lower the cost of your car insurance
Your budget might be a big factor when it comes to deciding which car insurance option you’ll choose.
From keeping your record clean to driving a safe and reliable car, there are some smart ways to save money on the cost of your car insurance.
Maintain a good driving record
Keep to the speed limit and avoid traffic light infringements, because even as a learner driver, you can still have demerit points taken away.
Find a safe and reliable car to drive
Stick with a car that has good safety features and strong anti-theft devices. And make sure it’s serviced regulary. We will take into account the model, make and condition of your car when providing you with a quote.
Keep on the lookout for discounts to your premium
Save up to 10% of your Comprehensive cover with the AAMI Skilled Drivers discount. Here’s how it works. Once you’re on your P-plates and, if you’re under 25 years old and a listed driver under Comprehensive Car Insurance policy (purchased or renewed on 19 June 2018 or after), you can undertake a driving course at a cost to you through an AAMI approved provider. Become a safer driver – explore theAAMI Skilled Drivers course to get started!
Vary your excess to save on your premium
Generally the higher the excess, the lower the premium you’ll pay if you make a claim for damages in a car accident. With AAMI Flexi-Premiums, you can choose to increase your excess to lower your premium. It’s important to know that as a young driver, this could be on top of your standard excess. If you’re under 25 (including if you’re a learner driver) an age excess applies.
Do you need extra motivation when learning to drive? AAMI SmartPlates is an app that can track and log your practise hours and route choice, as well as providing weather, road type and traffic conditions in real time.
See what you could save with a quick, online quote.
*Young Driver Factbase, accessed online 22 Janurary 2019
Disclaimer:
Insurance is issued by AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807 trading as AAMI Insurance.
Please read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement before you make any decision regarding this insurance. The Target Market Determination is also available.