Higher premiums for women drivers as new insurance rules come into force

Changes to insurance rules come into force today which will make it more expensive for women drivers.

Statistically, women tend to live longer than men and are viewed as safer behind the wheel, so they have traditionally enjoyed cheaper health and motor insurance.

New European rules mean insurance companies can no longer consider a customer's gender when calculating how much they should pay.

Unisex premiums are to be implemented aimed at ensuring people are not discriminated against because of their gender.

The move will impact on policies including motor insurance, life assurance, critical illness and income protection cover as well as private annuities and pensions.

Non-life manager at the Irish Insurance Federation Michael Horan said competition in the sector could soften the blow of any price changes.

"(In the weeks ahead), premiums for women may rise (and) premiums for men may fall," he said, "but people shop around and I think competition will play a major part."