Men and women quoted equally for car insurance

Male and female drivers are being quoted equally for car insurance for the first time, as a survey shows the EU gender directive is being implemented correctly here.

The first motor insurance survey by the National Consumer Agency (NCA) since the implementation of the directive last December requested quotes for both male and female driver across eight driver profiles and found them to be equal.

The research also found that significant savings of up to €1,300 can be found across the profiles.

For example, a difference of up to €1,335 was found on third-party, fire, and theft cover, and up to €1,038 on fully comprehensive cover between the lowest and highest quote for a 20-year-old student from Mayo with a full licence and driving experience of less than one year.

There was a difference of up to €595 on third-party, fire, and theft cover, and up to €625 on fully comprehensive cover between the lowest and highest quote for a 25-year-old teacher from Kilkenny with a full licence for three years.

The NCA study also found that the impact of having penalty points was varied across the industry.

All eight insurers provided a quotation for the driver with two penalty points. However, only three of the eight insurers were willing to provide a quote for the same driver with six penalty points.

Following a recent Department of Transport initiative, insurers will soon be able to check the offences for which penalty points are issued to a driver’s licence, as they will be given full access to the National Vehicle and Driver File. This change is being introduced on a phased basis.

Fergal O’Leary, the director of research and policy at the NCA, said it was clear that people should shop around for quotes before buying or renewing motor insurance.

“The NCA’s consumer research shows that one in four consumers are still not shopping around for their motor insurance and as such may be missing out on large savings.

“There are a number of options available to consumers now who want to research the market and compare insurance policies — they can go online, call the insurer directly, or use a broker.”

The survey also looked at breakdown assistance, which is not included as standard in all motor insurance policies.

It found differing levels of cover for this benefit across insurers.

Some policies only provide roadside assistance and limited driveway assistance in the case of a breakdown or accident. Others provide roadside and driveway assistance in addition to a tow-away service.

In some of the policies quoted, breakdown assistance also included helping the driver and passengers to complete the journey via public transport or a replacement car.

“Breakdown assistance can be a useful benefit but we would recommend that consumers check exactly what benefits are included and how much it costs so they can make a conscious choice as to whether or not they need it,” said Mr O’Leary.