Tag: van insurance costs

Van Insurance: Speed Limiters And Why Vans Have Them

Posted on by News Desk

Introduction

Speed limiters!

Vans in the UK are subject to stricter speed limits than cars, but why?

It’s not just about following the rules; speed limiters play a vital role in keeping roads safer, reducing emissions, and even saving money on van insurance.

In this article, you’ll learn:

  • What speed limiters are and how they work.
  • Why vans are fitted with speed limiters.
  • The legal speed limits for vans in the UK.

Let’s dive in.

What Are Speed Limiters?

Speed limiters are electronic devices designed to cap a vehicle’s maximum speed.

For vans, these devices are particularly important.

Why?

Because vans are larger and often heavier than cars, making high-speed accidents more dangerous and destructive.

These devices work by controlling the engine’s power.

Once the vehicle reaches a preset speed, the limiter kicks in, stopping the van from accelerating further.

Many modern vans come with built-in speed limiters, while older models might require retrofitting.

For UK roads, these devices ensure that vans adhere to speed restrictions tailored to their size and weight.

Why Do Vans Have Speed Limiters?

There are two main reasons vans have speed limiters: safety and emissions.

First, let’s talk about safety.

Vans are bigger and more powerful than most cars.

This means that in a high-speed crash, the potential for damage and injury increases significantly.

By capping speeds, speed limiters reduce the likelihood of severe accidents.

Now, let’s consider emissions.

Vans typically produce more CO₂ than smaller vehicles. Limiting their speed helps curb emissions, aligning with the UK’s environmental goals.

Ultimately, speed limiters benefit everyone—drivers, passengers, and even pedestrians.

Legal Speed Limits For Vans In The UK

Did you know vans have different speed limits compared to cars?

Here’s how it breaks down:

  • Built-up areas: 30 mph (same as cars).
  • Single carriageways: 50 mph (10 mph lower than cars).
  • Dual carriageways: 60 mph (10 mph lower than cars).
  • Motorways: 70 mph—unless towing, then it’s 60 mph.

The rules are stricter for heavier vans.

If your van exceeds 7.5 tonnes, the motorway limit drops to 60 mph, even without a trailer.

In Scotland, there’s an additional twist: vans must stick to 50 mph on dual carriageways.

These limits exist for good reasons—primarily safety and environmental protection.

Consequences Of Ignoring Speed Limits

Breaking speed limits isn’t just dangerous—it’s expensive.

Here’s what could happen:

  • A fine of up to £2,500.
  • Points on your licence or even a disqualification.
  • Serious offences could result in court appearances or driving bans.

For van drivers who rely on their vehicles for work, the stakes are even higher.

Speeding penalties could mean job losses, higher insurance premiums, or worse.

Why risk it when staying within the limit is so straightforward?

How Speed Limiters Help With Insurance Costs

Let’s be honest—insurance costs are a concern for nearly every van driver.

But here’s something you might not know: speed limiters can directly impact your premiums.

So, how does this work?

First, they encourage safer driving habits. Insurers recognise that drivers who stay within speed limits are far less likely to be involved in accidents.

As a result, your risk profile goes down, and so do your premiums.

But that’s not all.

Some insurers specifically reward vehicles equipped with speed limiters.

This means you could be eligible for exclusive discounts, making it easier to secure cheap van insurance.

Still not convinced?

Think about how your driving record impacts your rates.

Consistently obeying speed limits not only keeps you safer but also helps you avoid penalties like fines or licence points.

Over time, this clean record could lead to even greater savings.

In short, a speed limiter doesn’t just protect you—it protects your wallet too.

Environmental Benefits Of Speed Limiters

Let’s take a step back for a moment.

Beyond safety and savings, speed limiters also play a critical role in protecting the environment.

Here’s why it matters:

By capping your speed, these devices not only help reduce fuel consumption but also contribute to lower fuel usage overall.

As a result, fewer harmful emissions are released into the atmosphere, which benefits both the environment and public health.

Still not sure why this is so important?

The UK government has ambitious climate goals, and cutting down on vehicle emissions is a huge part of the plan.

Speed limiters are a practical way for van drivers to contribute to these efforts.

But there’s more.

If you run a business with a fleet of vans, the benefits multiply.

Not only will you save on fuel costs, but you’ll also position your business as environmentally responsible—a selling point for eco-conscious clients.

Here’s the bottom line:

Driving with a speed limiter isn’t just good for you—it’s good for the planet.

Conclusion

By now, it’s clear why vans are equipped with speed limiters.

They’re essential for improving road safety, lowering harmful emissions, and even helping you save money on van insurance.

So, what’s your next move?

Think about how much you could save by embracing safer driving habits and avoiding costly penalties.

And if you’re looking for more ways to optimise your insurance, check out these helpful resources:

The choice is yours.

Will you prioritise safety, sustainability, and savings?

Or will you risk fines, penalties, and rising insurance costs?

The answer should be simple.

 

Van Insurance: Council Van Sparks Outrage After Breaking Scotland’s New Pavement Parking Ban

Posted on by News Desk

Introduction

A council van breaking the very rules it was meant to enforce?

Not surprisingly, this shocking incident has quickly set social media ablaze.

The vehicle, owned by South Lanarkshire Council, was spotted parked on a pavement in East Kilbride.

As a result, residents are furious, viewing the situation as a clear violation of trust.

Moreover, they see it as a blatant example of double standards, further fueling the growing public outcry.

How can the council enforce rules they themselves don’t follow?

The Pavement Parking Ban: What You Need To Know

Scotland’s pavement parking ban came into effect on January 6, 2025.

It’s part of the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019.

The goal?

To improve road safety and accessibility for pedestrians.

Here’s what the new rules prohibit:

  • Parking on pavements.
  • Double parking.
  • Blocking dropped kerbs.

The penalties are steep.

Drivers can face a £100 fine, reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.

Initially, councils issued warning notices.

But now, stricter enforcement is in place.

This change has been welcomed by groups like Living Streets and Guide Dogs.

They argue it’s a win for wheelchair users, parents with prams, and others who rely on clear pavements.

For van drivers, however, the story is more complicated.

Read about how telematics devices can save you money on van insurance.

The Council Van Incident: A Public Backlash

On January 12, a South Lanarkshire Council van was photographed parked on a pavement in East Kilbride.

Interestingly, this occurred just six days after the enforcement of the new rules had officially begun.

Moreover, the timing of the incident has added to the controversy surrounding the council’s actions.

The location?

Brisbane Terrace.

The reaction from the public was swift.

As a result, residents quickly took to social media, flooding it with expressions of outrage and frustration.

One local wrote:

“It’s one rule for them and another for us. Total hypocrisy!”

Many echoed the sentiment.

The council’s credibility took a major hit.

Colin Park, Head of Roads, Transportation and Fleet Services, responded.

He assured the public that council drivers are not exempt from the rules.

His statement:

“We will look into this further and take appropriate action if necessary.”

But for many residents, the damage was already done.

Is your van insurance policy up to date? Find out more here.

Challenges Facing Van Drivers

For van drivers, the pavement parking ban has created a new set of hurdles.

Tradespeople and delivery drivers are particularly affected.

Why?

In many urban areas, pavements have long been the only viable parking option.

But now, those options are gone.

The problem is worse in older neighbourhoods.

Narrow streets and limited parking make compliance almost impossible.

One frustrated resident commented:

“If everyone in my street parked on the road, the bin lorry couldn’t even get through.”

There’s also a financial impact.

For businesses, these fines can quickly add up.

Some drivers fear the added costs could increase their van insurance premiums.

Discover how to reduce your van insurance costs as a new driver.

Drivers are calling for better solutions.

More parking spaces.

Improved infrastructure.

But so far, those changes remain out of reach.

Solutions And Compliance Tips For Van Drivers

How can van drivers navigate these new restrictions?

It’s not as complicated as it seems.

First, it starts with understanding the rules.

But knowing the rules isn’t enough.

There are practical steps you can take to avoid fines.

Let’s break it down.

Here are some strategies to help:

Plan Ahead: Always scout out legal parking spots before arriving at your destination.

This simple step can save you time and reduce unnecessary stress.

Use Telematics Devices: These devices monitor your parking habits, helping you stay compliant.

They may also lower your van insurance premiums over time.

Consider Alternatives: Parking further away and walking a short distance is often the best option.

If walking isn’t feasible, shared transport can also help you stay within the rules.

For tradespeople and delivery drivers, time really is money.

However, fines can quickly eat into your profits.

So, what’s the solution?

By making minor adjustments to your daily routine, you can avoid penalties entirely.

But there’s more to consider.

The Importance Of Compliance

Why does compliance matter so much?

First, avoiding fines keeps your expenses low.

Moreover, it helps protect your van insurance rates.

Insurance providers may penalise repeat offenders with higher premiums.

Because of this, staying within the law isn’t just about safety.

It’s also about safeguarding your financial future.

Furthermore, councils are monitoring enforcement zones closely.

This means you’re less likely to get away with parking violations now.

And don’t forget—prevention is always better than cure.

Finally, staying informed about local parking regulations will save you from unnecessary hassle.

Wouldn’t it be easier to avoid the stress altogether?

The Bigger Picture: Calls For Change

While van drivers adapt to the new rules, many are questioning the bigger picture.

Why haven’t more solutions been introduced?

For example, local residents and businesses are calling for:

More Parking Spaces: Urban areas need designated parking for vans and larger vehicles.

Improved Public Transport: Better alternatives could reduce vehicle reliance and ease parking pressure.

Incentives for Change: Schemes like car-sharing programs or discounted parking permits for tradespeople could make compliance easier.

But here’s the challenge.

Councils argue they are working within tight budgets.

As Councillor Robert Brown pointed out:

“Any income from fines will go towards funding the parking unit, which is already under significant financial strain.”

However, drivers remain sceptical.

Is this really about safety?

Or is it just another way to generate revenue?

Balancing Safety With Practicality

It’s clear the new laws are designed with pedestrians in mind.

But what about drivers living in older areas with narrow streets?

For many, these streets were never built to accommodate modern traffic volumes.

One resident summed it up perfectly:

“If everyone in my street parked on the road, emergency vehicles couldn’t get through.”

This is where a balanced approach becomes essential.

While the council focuses on enforcement, residents want real investments in infrastructure.

After all, fines can only go so far.

Wouldn’t long-term solutions benefit everyone?

Read about how a Driver used fake licence to keep working

Conclusion

The pavement parking ban is a step in the right direction for road safety.

But for van drivers, it introduces significant challenges.

Finding legal parking, avoiding fines, and managing insurance costs all demand careful planning and proactive effort.

Furthermore, the council van incident has undeniably added fuel to an already heated debate.

So, what’s the takeaway?

By staying informed and proactive, you can navigate these changes successfully.

Looking for more tips?

Check out these related blogs for practical advice:

Taking these steps will not only help you avoid fines but also save money on your van insurance.

Isn’t that worth the effort?

How One Parking Dispute Could Skyrocket Your Van Insurance Rates

Posted on by News Desk

Introduction

Parking disputes are all too common.

But sometimes, they can escalate into serious situations.

In one recent case, a minor disagreement between a van driver and a young motorist turned into a legal issue.

It highlights how everyday interactions can lead to unexpected consequences –

especially for van owners relying on their vehicles for work.

This article explores the implications of this incident.

It reveals how these encounters might impact your van insurance rates.

Key takeaways:

  • How minor parking disputes can impact your van insurance.
  • The legal and financial consequences for van drivers.
  • Practical tips for protecting yourself and your insurance premiums.

The Parking Incident And Escalation

Back in April, 19-year-old Joseph Dunn, a college student, was out with his sisters in Caldmore Green, Walsall.

At first, they were simply searching for a parking spot.

After struggling to find a space in the nearby car park, they finally parked in front of a van, blocking its exit.

Initially, it seemed like a minor inconvenience.

However, the situation quickly escalated.

The van driver grew frustrated, honking his horn and inching forward, attempting to clear a path.

But Dunn, sensing aggression, felt a need to protect his pregnant sister.

So, he did something surprising.

He retrieved an axe from the car and waved it in the air.

This swift decision, intended as a protective measure, ultimately led to a court appearance and a suspended sentence.

“You chose to escalate this conflict beyond a justifiable level by producing an axe on a public highway,” said Recorder Hughes during sentencing.

This incident serves as a clear reminder.

In tense situations, our reactions can impact more than just ourselves.

For van drivers, these disputes can heavily impact insurance premiums.

This is especially true when aggression or weapons are involved.

And here’s the real kicker.

Maintaining a clean record is vital if you want to access very cheap van insurance options.

Joseph Dunn’s legal fallout highlights how a simple parking dispute can spiral into a criminal charge.

His charge? Threatening with a weapon.

The result? An eight-month suspended sentence.

But the effects go beyond the legal outcome.

Such actions, although brief, can lead to lasting consequences for drivers – especially those who depend on their vans daily.

In similar cases, van drivers could face insurance hikes.

Why? Because insurers may view such incidents as “red flags” in a driver’s profile.

Want to avoid becoming a “high-risk” policyholder?

Here’s a key tip: staying calm in disputes can help preserve your insurance profile.

For more tips on safe practices, take a look at Why Proper Vehicle Compliance is Crucial for Road Safety.

Financial Impact Of Incidents On Van Insurance

It’s no secret – insurance providers assess risks based on a driver’s record.

For van drivers, even a seemingly trivial altercation could affect their insurance rates.

In fact, altercations like Dunn’s can lead to premium hikes or, in some cases, policy cancellations.

Think about it.

When a van driver becomes involved in a confrontation, they may immediately appear “high-risk” to an insurer.

As a result, this perception alone could potentially block access to the cheapest van insurance options.

In Dunn’s case, waving an axe during a dispute might flag him as a liability in the eyes of any insurance provider.

While the direct impact on his premiums isn’t public, his record will likely influence his future costs.

Want to avoid similar consequences?

Consider adopting practices that maintain your premium.

Need ideas?

Check out our guide: How to Get the Cheapest Rates Today.

Everyday Parking Situations And Insurance Risks

This case reminds us that even routine parking situations can have far-reaching consequences.

Van drivers, often dealing with tight spaces and crowded streets, know parking conflicts are frequent.

But this story shows just how critical it is to keep your cool.

Here’s why.

Escalating a parking dispute to a legal level can impact your insurance profile.

If a driver appears volatile or aggressive, insurers may deem them “high-risk” –

even if the actions seemed justified in the moment.

Drivers across the UK should be aware.

Parking disputes, if not handled calmly, could compromise their insurance options.

Curious about your coverage?

Find out more here: Are You Driving a Car or a Van? Check Your Insurance Policy.

How To Protect Yourself And Lower Insurance Costs

It’s clear that disputes like these can lead to serious repercussions.

So, how can you protect yourself and your van insurance?

First, it’s essential to stay calm in tense situations.

Remember, insurers assess more than just your driving record.

They look at how you handle yourself on the road, including in parking disputes.

A calm approach helps to keep a “clean” profile, making it easier to secure very cheap van insurance.

Second, consider installing a dash cam.

Not only can this provide evidence in case of an incident,

but it also demonstrates to insurers that you’re a responsible driver.

Dash cams are an affordable way to maintain peace of mind and protect your insurance premiums.

Still looking for ways to save?

Here’s another tip.

Regularly review your van insurance policy to ensure it aligns with your needs and budget.

Policies change, and rates fluctuate, so it’s worth checking periodically.

To learn more, visit How Telematics Devices Can Save You Money on Van Insurance.

Conclusion

In summary, even minor parking rows can lead to significant impacts on your van insurance rates.

The story of Joseph Dunn serves as a cautionary tale for all van drivers.

Everyday situations can escalate, affecting your finances, insurance profile, and legal standing.

But there’s good news.

By staying calm, using tools like dash cams, and regularly reviewing your policy, you can protect yourself from unnecessary insurance hikes.

Ready to keep your insurance affordable?

Explore similar blogs to learn more:

Is Van Insurance Getting Cheaper? What You Need to Know

Posted on by News Desk

Introduction

Van insurance premiums in the UK are seeing an interesting shift.

While premiums are up 9.5% annually, younger drivers are finally seeing some relief.

If you’re looking for cheap van insurance, staying informed about these trends is crucial.

Van insurance prices have been volatile over the past year.

Consumer Intelligence reports a 9.5% rise in premiums over the past 12 months.

It’s a hefty increase that’s impacting many drivers across the UK.

But here’s the good news: some prices are beginning to trend downward.

In July, one of the most competitive insurers led a 3% price drop across the board.

This was a welcome change for many drivers.

However, this shift was temporary.

Premiums crept back up soon after, affecting most van owners.

But with these fluctuations, we’re seeing the first signs that rates could be softening again.

So, what does this mean for you?

If you’re in the market for cheap van insurance, these shifts might just offer a glimmer of hope.

Van Insurance Drops For Younger Drivers

It’s not all doom and gloom.

Younger drivers, those under 25, are among the few seeing real relief.

In the last year, this group experienced a 2.2% average drop in premiums.

Yes, you read that right,

In a market where prices are rising for most, young van drivers actually have an edge.

Why the decline?

For insurers, younger drivers have traditionally represented a higher risk.

But recent data shows under-25s are taking steps to reduce their risks.

Some may be installing dash cams, opting for telematics, or choosing safer routes.

And this is crucial because any reduction in perceived risk can mean savings.

If you’re under 25, now might be the perfect time to shop around.

Click here to explore van insurance for new drivers.

Many young drivers are reducing rates through this technology, and insurers are often happy to reward these efforts.

Current Price Ranges For New Policies

What should drivers expect to pay right now?

According to September 2024 data, most quoted premiums for new van insurance policies range between £500 and £749.

Around 18% of quotes fall into this category.

Another 17% come in a bit higher, within the £750 to £999 range.

Why does this matter?

If you’re seeking very cheap van insurance, knowing these ranges is critical.

It helps you gauge whether your quote is fair or if more shopping around is wise.

Even small adjustments, like reassessing your van’s usage type, can move you toward the lower end of these brackets.

Impact On Older Drivers (25 and Over)

For drivers aged 25 to 49 and those over 50, premiums are moving in the opposite direction.

In the past year, the average premium for drivers in the 25-49 range rose by 11.5%.

Over-50s saw a similar hike, with a 10.2% increase.

This is no small jump.

For these age groups, who often receive competitive rates, this upward trend is significant.

So, what’s causing these rises?

For starters, the overall increase in claims and repair costs is a key factor.

Even drivers with clean records are seeing their costs increase.

But don’t give up hope just yet.

There are still options for managing these increases.

For instance, some insurers offer discounts for additional safety features or policy bundling.

Van Insurance Differences By Usage Type

How you use your van impacts your insurance rates significantly.

Drivers using vans for social, domestic, and pleasure purposes saw premiums rise by 13.1%.

Tradespeople experienced a more moderate 8.4% increase.

Why the difference?

Insurers tend to assess risks differently based on usage.

Vans used solely for personal purposes may face higher premiums.

These users typically drive longer, unregulated routes, which insurers consider higher risk.

Meanwhile, tradespeople, who have more predictable, work-related routes, receive relatively lower increases.

To learn more about proper vehicle compliance, which can sometimes lower premiums.

Check out our guide on vehicle compliance for road safety.

Delivery And Part-Time Work Risk Considerations

As more people turn to part-time delivery work, insurers are starting to pay closer attention to how vans are used.

In today’s market, the demand for food and package delivery has skyrocketed.

With this rise, many drivers are using their vans for both personal and business purposes.

Yet, this dual use can mean higher premiums, as insurers see part-time delivery as a greater risk.

Why?

Because vans used for deliveries often cover more miles.

Face traffic more frequently, and may even be at risk during unsupervised hours.

So, if you’re considering part-time delivery, you might want to look into dedicated delivery insurance.

Not only can it provide more coverage, but it could also lower your risk in the eyes of insurers.

In the end, it’s all about managing your risk profile.

For more insights on the type of insurance you might need:

Explore our article on business van insurance options.

When we look back over the years, the trend is clear: van insurance premiums have climbed steadily.

Since Consumer Intelligence began collecting data, social, domestic, and pleasure use premiums have risen by an astonishing 269.7%.

Meanwhile, the premiums for tradespeople have increased by 183.5%.

That’s a significant rise.

With each year, as new risks and claims emerge, premiums are gradually shifting upward.

So, what does this mean for drivers today?

It means that finding the cheapest van insurance in the UK has become more challenging.

However, this historical trend also highlights the value of staying proactive.

For example,

If you’re a tradesperson, having a consistent driving record could position you for better rates.

Tips For Securing The Cheapest Van Insurance

Now, let’s get to the part you’ve been waiting for.

Practical tips to keep your premiums low.

Here’s the first tip: consider telematics.

Telematics devices track your driving habits, and insurers often reward safer drivers with reduced rates.

By installing one, you could potentially save hundreds on your premium.

Next, make sure your van is properly secured and compliant with road safety standards.

Having security features like immobilisers and tracking devices can lower your premiums.

It’s all about showing insurers you’re serious about safety.

Additionally, don’t overlook the benefits of shopping around.

Each insurer has its own way of calculating risk, meaning a bit of research could reveal a surprisingly cheap van insurance option.

To dive deeper into savings tips, take a look at top ways to reduce your van insurance premiums.

Conclusion

While van insurance premiums in the UK may have risen overall, certain groups are beginning to see relief.

Staying informed can make all the difference.

Remember, the more you understand about these trends, the better equipped you’ll be to find the best rates.

So, don’t let premium increases get the best of you.

Keep exploring options, tailoring your coverage to your needs, and staying proactive.

For more insights and tips, visit these related articles:

Can I Get Van Insurance As A New Driver

Posted on by News Desk

Introduction

New driver van insurance.

Getting on the road with a van in the UK isn’t just about passing your driving test;

It’s also about securing the right insurance.

For new drivers, especially those under 25, this can seem like a daunting task with high costs and various policies to navigate.

So, what can you do?

Understanding Van Insurance For New Drivers

Why is Van Insurance Expensive for New Young Drivers?

Van insurance premiums are notoriously higher for young drivers due to their lack of driving experience and statistically higher risk of being involved in accidents.

Insurers assess risk based on a variety of factors including age, driving history, and even the type of vehicle being insured.

For young drivers, these factors often work against them, making it challenging to find cost-effective insurance.

In the UK, it’s legally required to insure your van before you drive it on public roads.

This is not just a formality but a necessity to protect yourself and others in case of an accident.

Without proper insurance, you could face severe penalties including fines, disqualification from driving, and having your vehicle seized.

So, what do you need to know?

The Impact Of Age On Insurance Costs

Insurance companies often set higher premiums for younger drivers, typically those under 25.

This is because younger drivers are viewed as high-risk due to their inexperience.

Some insurers even set minimum age limits on their policies, which can limit options for younger van drivers.

What else should you consider?

Levels Of Van Insurance

Understanding the different levels of van insurance can help you choose the best option for your needs.

The three main levels of coverage include:

Third-Party Only (TPO): This is the minimum level required by law. It covers damages or injuries to third parties but not your own vehicle in the case of an accident.

Despite being the least comprehensive, TPO can sometimes be more expensive for young drivers because insurers perceive a higher risk with this group.

Third-Party, Fire, and Theft (TPFT): This level provides the same coverage as TPO but also covers your vehicle in case of fire damage or theft.

It’s a middle-ground option that offers some protection for your own vehicle while keeping costs relatively manageable.

Comprehensive: Often surprisingly, this can be the cheapest option for young drivers. It covers damages to both third parties and your own vehicle, regardless of who is at fault in an accident.

It provides the most extensive coverage and can sometimes come at a lower premium than less comprehensive policies due to the lower risk perceived by insurers when drivers opt for more protection.

Curious to learn more?

Learn more about van insurance options

Goods In Transit And Other Special Policies

If you’re transporting goods, whether as a courier or for specific business deliveries, ‘Goods in Transit’ insurance is essential. It protects against loss or damage while moving goods from one place to another.

For drivers using their vans for frequent, specific delivery routes (haulage), specialised haulage insurance provides tailored coverage that fits the repetitive nature of this work.

Looking for specific advice?

Discover more about business van insurance

Factors Influencing Costs

Various factors influence the cost of van insurance:

Age and Experience: Younger, less experienced drivers usually face higher premiums.

Driving History: Points on your license or past offenses can increase costs.

Location: High-risk areas with higher rates of vehicle theft or accidents may see elevated premiums.

Vehicle Type: Larger engines or high-performance models often lead to higher insurance costs.

Can you manage these costs?

Yes, and the next section will explain how.

Learn how to manage insurance costs

Effective Strategies To Lower Van Insurance Costs

Ready to cut costs? Here’s how:

Choose the Right Van

Selecting a van in a low insurance group is a smart move. These vehicles are usually cheaper to insure because they pose less risk to insurers.

Why does this matter?

A smaller engine size generally leads to lower premiums. Before purchasing your van, check which insurance group it falls into to estimate future insurance costs.

Enhance Security

Adding security features such as alarms, immobilisers, or trackers can significantly reduce your premiums. Insurers often offer discounts for vans that are less likely to be stolen or broken into.

Adjust Your Excess

Increasing your voluntary excess — the amount you pay in the event of a claim — can lower your premium. However, ensure it’s an amount you can comfortably afford if you need to make a claim.

Add An Experienced Driver

Including a more experienced driver on your policy might reduce your premium, as the overall risk is averaged over two drivers. Just ensure the experienced driver uses the van; otherwise, this could be considered fronting, which is illegal.

Consider A Telematics Policy

A black box or telematics policy tracks your driving behavior, including speed, acceleration, and braking. Safe driving can lead to lower premiums at renewal.

Is this right for you?

Find out if telematics could save you money

Compare And Shop Around

Never settle for the first quote you receive. Use comparison websites and check different insurers to find the best deal that suits your specific needs.

Conclusion

Securing affordable van insurance as a young driver in the UK isn’t just about finding the cheapest quote; it’s about understanding your needs and how to meet them while minimising costs.

By implementing these strategies, you can not only save on your current premium but also position yourself for cheaper premiums in the future.

Remember, every driver’s journey is unique:

Tailor your approach, and keep these tips in mind to navigate the complexities of van insurance efficiently.

 

The Irish Example

Posted on by News Desk

Good news for Irish van drivers this week, with the launch of a scheme that we very much hope to see cross the Irish Channel and trickle into the British system.

If you are fortunate enough to be living and working in Ireland, you will no doubt have heard about the new grant scheme that has been launched to support tradespeople in this post-COVID economy.

Yes, over the water, they have launched a new Enterprise Support Grant, which offers tradespeople a grant of us to €1000 per sole trader who do not qualify for other government support. 

Welcomed by tradespeople over, there, the grant is helping take the strain off the nation’s sparkies, plumbers, builders and carpenters who are able to claim the grant to help make their life a little easier in this post-COVD economy. 

What is really great about the grant is that not only can it be used for stocking up on tools and equipment, but the money can also be put towards vehicle running costs, including fuel, servicing, and van insurance too.

As we all know, insuring a van is not cheap. For many tradespeople, it represents a large chunk of expense towards doing and running their business. And while here at CVI, we do our very best to ensure that all van drivers get the best possible deal on their van insurance, irrespective of age, gender or trade, we know that since the economy ground to a halt earlier this year, getting back up and running has been a massive struggle for many. 

We very much welcome this news and hope that our own Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, sees this initiative and takes inspiration from it, and offers a similar scheme to the van drivers of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

After all, with the government desperate to get us all back to work, we can only hope that they don’t forget the role of the British van drivers play in the economy and that they do their bit for those who may have missed out from other initiatives, such as the furlough scheme or self-employment grants. 

Here’s looking at you, Rishi.

Cutting costs – How to Save on Your Van Insurance

Posted on by News Desk

It’s been a rough few months for everyone. Even the most hardy of us have been affected one way or another by COVID-19, and van drivers haven’t been exempted. And with the threat of a recession looming, keeping costs down is crucial, especially those that could be cheaper. 

So, we thought that now would be a good time to take a look at ways that you could potentially trim back some costs on your driving expenses. Just the smallest tweak could save you some bucks, and right now, that’s got to be a good thing. 

1: Do you really need that big van?

Yes, it makes you feel like the man, out on the road, compared to all those amateurs in their Twingo’s and Kangoo’s, but they may be having the last laugh, if they are running close to capacity and you’re riding around with space in the back almost every day. Not only is a bigger van costing you more in fuel and van insurance, but you’ll be paying more insurance for it too. Now, there are of course, costs attached with selling one to replace with another, but if It’s time for a new van, it’s worth thinking about trading down for something a bit smaller if you have the capacity to do so. And you could even spend that money you save on a fancier model with a few more bells and whistles. Doing that may not save you money upfront, but you might end up with a comfier ride and lower fuel and insurance costs.

Are you secure?

Not that your missus might run off with her personal trainer, but your van security – is it up to scratch? A tracking device or security etching could also save you. Vans are a big target for thieves, and anything you can do to reduce the risk of yours getting nicked or help in it being recovered can reduce your annual premiums. Don’t forget where you park overnight, either. Leave it on the roadside outside your home, because it’s a pain to get into your driveway, and you could be paying extra. 

Can you pay your van insurance annually?

If you can afford to, it’s always cheaper. APR’s of around 30% are not uncommon if you’re opting for monthly van insurance payments, which can add a few hundred quid onto your policy cost if you’re paying monthly. If you do need to pay monthly, make sure any comparison quotes you get are all showing those costs so you can make an accurate decision on which one works out the cheapest.

Consider Telematics:

Ok, so if you’re a bit older and prone to the odd white van man manoeuvre, then maybe getting a black box fitted is a bad idea. And there’s the whole Big Brother aspect that nobody likes, but if you are new to van driving or maybe the other side – older and generally sensible, then adding a telematics device could save you a few quid on your insurance too. 

Get Fast, Competitive Van Insurance Quotes

But, if all these options seem like a bit of a pain and not really your thing, we have one thing you can do that will definitely save you not just a few quid, but a massive chunk of time too – when it comes to renewing your van insurance, don’t forget to fill out our quick quote form. We’ll get the best quotes delivered directly to you, without you having to put in the legwork to getting you the best deal possible.

And who isn’t for the easy life, especially when times are tough?

Safe driving!

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