The Irish have been complaining about their auto insurance for decades. But there was no conspiracy, high rates were often justified. Not only did Irish motorists get in more accidents, on average, than other Europeans, but they also reported more road damage. Of course the reason for this was that Irish roads and highways were poorly maintained.
While rates have declined a bit in recent years, Ireland is still home to some of the highest auto insurance premiums in Europe. In this article we will review a few simple steps Irish drivers can take to qualify for lower monthly fees.
First and most importantly, pass the driving test before you even apply for an insurance policy. Insurance rates are far more affordable for licensed drivers than for motorists who hold a provisional licence. Those who drive uninsured should also choose smaller cars. Since premiums are based on the size and power of the vehicle, driving a compact car can save drivers hundreds of pounds on premiums each year.
This next bit of advice really is a judgment call. But if you have low rates, it may be better not to report road damage if you can fix the problem inexpensively on your own. Insurance claims raise your premiums over time, which means it may be cheaper to pay for minor repairs out of pocket.
Our last and most obvious suggestion is to shop around. One of the main reasons auto insurance rates have fallen all across Ireland is that internet firms are undercutting established insurers. So be sure to compare online rates before you agree to anything.
