If you need van insurance and are worried it will set you back a fair amount because you’re a young and inexperienced driver, you may be right. However, if you know you’re a good driver, you do have options including black box van insurance. Read our guide to find out how a blackbox van insurance policy could save you money.
Black box or telematics van insurance policies are available to most drivers and will usually see monthly premiums calculated based on real data collected about a driver’s current performance.
Black box van insurance customers must first have a black box device fitted into their van, which uses GPS technology to continually monitor the driver’s performance on the roadshow as well as their braking habits. The van’s speed and distance travelled as well as when and where your journeys happen are also continually monitored. This data is then assessed by the insurance provider, a score is given and then the insurance premiums for the following month are calculated.
The scoring system typically ranges from 0–100, with 100 being the safest drivers. The safer a driver is, the less risk they pose on the roads and therefore premiums are lowered.
Here are some of the benefits of a telematics van insurance policy:
Having a “black box” fitted to your van to monitor your driving could result in discounts if you genuinely drive safely. But just as premiums can decrease with safe and careful driving, premiums can also increase with poor driving.
If you’re a young and inexperienced van driver, chances are you’ll pay some of the highest premiums out there. That’s because insurers tend to lump you into a high risk category as you’re statistically more likely to be involved in an accident and therefore claim on your insurance.
But if you’re a safe and careful driver despite being young and inexperienced, then telematics insurance could help to save you money. Getting a black box fitted to your van lets you take control of your driving and prove your worth to your insurer, which could translate into lower premiums for you.
There will be no hiding once you have a black box device fitted to your van as your driving habits will be monitored regardless of whether you drive well or drive badly.
An insurer offering black box insurance will generally have its own age restrictions. You should be able to find a black box policy to suit you as long as you hold a valid UK driver’s licence. Remember to shop around and check the features of a policy carefully.
If you’ve recently passed your driving test and have little experience, you could avoid being lumped into a high risk category and paying high premiums by allowing your insurance provider to monitor your driving. Similarly, if you’re an older driver in your 70s but have found your premiums rise, a black box policy could help to prove to your insurance provider that you’re still a good driver. Ultimately, by driving safely and proving your driving skills, you could see a significant reduction to your premiums.
If you don’t mind proving your worth on the road, telematics could be for you. Having a black box device fitted to your van to monitor your driving habits could help to reduce your insurance premiums, especially if you’re young and generally categorised by insurers as a high risk.
Just remember that once the device is fitted to your van, it can’t be temporarily taken out so you’ll be monitored at all times. If you’re ok with this, then you start comparing quotes now.
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