Taking out car insurance as a young driver is not always a walk in the park: prohibitive rates, high deductibles, tedious procedures... However, in recent years, online car insurance has been gaining ground thanks to its competitive rates and ease of use. But can it really be relied upon in case of an accident? Here's an overview of the advantages and potential pitfalls (with concrete figures!).
It's no secret: young drivers represent a higher risk in the eyes of insurers. According to the National Interministerial Road Safety Observatory (ONISR), although 18-24-year-olds make up only 9% of motorists, they are involved in 22% of fatal accidents. As a result: often significant surcharges that can double or even triple the cost of a standard car insurance policy. On average, a young driver spends between 1200 and 2500 euros per year, depending on the vehicle and the chosen coverage options.
Faced with these high costs, online car insurance appears as an attractive solution. By eliminating physical agencies and reducing administrative fees, online insurers often offer rates significantly lower than those of traditional companies. Thus, it is not uncommon for a young driver to achieve savings of 20 to 30% on their annual contract. Companies like Ornikar, for example, offer plans specifically tailored to this particular audience, with a quick and intuitive subscription directly on a smartphone or tablet.
Moreover, the ability to obtain instant quotes online makes it easy to compare offers and precisely adjust coverage.
There are generally three main categories of contracts for young drivers:
Basic Third Party: the minimum mandatory coverage, ideal for older or low-value vehicles.Enhanced Third Party: intermediate protection with additional guarantees (glass breakage, theft, fire).Comprehensive: the most complete coverage, recommended if the vehicle is recent or of high value.
To further reduce their bill, young drivers should consider certain strategies such as early driving education (Apprentissage Anticipé de la Conduite), pay-as-you-drive insurance, or opting for a small-engine car.
Being involved in an accident is already a stressful experience, but the administrative procedures can be even more so. Fortunately, online car insurance greatly simplifies claims management:
- **Quick declaration**: usually just a simple form to fill out directly on the internet or via a mobile app.
- **Digital transmission of documents**: reports, photos, repair estimates sent instantly from your smartphone.
- **Real-time tracking**: thanks to email or SMS notifications, the insured is continuously informed of the progress of their file.
- **Facilitated repair**: direct coverage by the insurer with a network of partner garages, allowing the insured to only pay the deductible.
Recent figures show that claims management via online insurance is processed on average twice as fast as by traditional companies, which is a real advantage for young people, who are often not accustomed to complex procedures.
Despite its many advantages, subscribing online has some important points to watch out for:
High deductibles: often, to offset attractive rates, online insurance imposes significant deductibles, sometimes up to several hundred euros. Check them carefully before signing.Limited coverage: it is essential to thoroughly examine the general terms and conditions of the contract to avoid unpleasant surprises in the event of a serious claim.Digital-only customer service: ensure that the customer service is responsive and easily reachable, especially in emergency situations.
Deductible: amount remaining at the insured's expense in the event of a claim.Young driver surcharge: rate increase applied to young drivers due to their lack of driving experience.AAC (Early Driving Learning): system allowing 16-year-olds to drive accompanied to reduce the young driver surcharge.
Online car insurance for young drivers is clearly a practical and economical solution, particularly suited to the connected generation. However, always take the time to carefully compare offers, check the guarantees provided, as well as the conditions applied in case of an accident. A well-considered choice will allow you to drive with peace of mind while making significant savings!
Author Audrey on 23 October 2023
Economy and Finance : Gambling and Lottery
Author Audrey on 16 June 2022
Economy and Finance : Gambling and Lottery