Car insurance with speeding convictions

Speeding is easily the most common driving offence in the UK. What many drivers don't realise is how this simple offence can have complex implications when it comes to car insurance.

Speeding Convictions and Insurance Woes

Speeding convictions mean bad news for your car insurance premium. The reason? Insurers view these convictions as evidence of risk-taking behaviour and, subsequently, increase your insurance cost.

The extent of this increase depends on several factors. These include the severity of the speeding offence, the number of points added to your licence, and whether or not it's a repeated offence. A more severe or repeated offence will likely result in a higher insurance quote.

Furthermore, acquiring a significant number of points might lead some insurers to refuse to offer a policy. It's clear then that having a speeding conviction can make getting affordable car insurance a bit of a head-scratcher.

The Causes of Speeding Convictions

At the heart of most speeding convictions is, unsurprisingly, a disregard for speed limits. Whether due to distraction, haste, or a belief that one's driving ability exceeds the legal limit, the outcome is the same.

A common cause of speeding convictions is misunderstanding the speed limit, especially when driving on unfamiliar roads. Alternatively, a driver might intentionally speed to make up time on a journey or simply out of habit.

Pathways to Cheaper Insurance

Despite the hurdles, affordable car insurance after a speeding conviction isn't just wishful thinking. Let's explore the ways you can make this happen:

Specialist Insurers

You can seek out insurers who specialise in offering policies to convicted drivers. They're familiar with the territory and often provide more competitive rates than mainstream insurers.

Harness the Power of Comparison

Use comparison websites to get quotes from a broad array of providers. But remember, not all insurers feature on these platforms, so it could pay off to check some company websites directly.

Rethink Your Excess

Increasing your voluntary excess (the part of a claim you pay yourself) could lead to lower premiums. However, always ensure you can afford this excess if you need to make a claim.

Improve Your Driving Skills

Consider completing an approved driving course. Some insurers will take this into account and offer a discount on your premium.

Limit Your Mileage

If you can cut down on your annual mileage, you might see a reduction in your premium. To insurers, fewer miles typically equates to less risk.

Secure Your Vehicle

Invest in additional security measures for your vehicle, such as a steering lock or immobiliser. It might be seen favourably by insurers and help reduce your premium.

Telematics Policies - A Solution?

Telematics, or 'black box' policies, offer another potential path to affordable insurance. These policies monitor your driving behaviour, and safer driving can result in cheaper premiums.

The Silver Lining - Time

As time passes, the effect of a speeding conviction on your insurance will lessen. Convictions typically need to be declared to insurers for five years. As this period passes, providing you keep a clean driving record, your insurance premiums should start to decrease.

Wrapping Up

Having a speeding conviction can make finding affordable car insurance a complex affair, but it's by no means impossible. By understanding the process and making some smart decisions, it's possible to secure a good deal. The key is to show that you're committed to safer driving and that your speeding conviction isn't a true reflection of your abilities behind the wheel. Keep this in mind, and you'll be well on your way to navigating the complexities of car insurance post-speeding conviction.