When shopping around for car insurance that's not going to break the bank, it's best to get as many qoutes as you can with the following information taken into consideration first, just like with anything you buy, you need to make an informed decision about the contract you are preparing to enter into.

No Claims Discount

The longer no claims discount you possess will demonstrate you are a lower risk and you will therefore reduce the premium you pay.

Most insurers may ask for proof in the form of a copy of your most recent insurance certificate stating the actual "No Claims"

Your Profession

Insurers consider some professions to be of a higher risk than others, so be certain you are satisfied that they have categorized your profession accurately.

A few insurance companies specialize in discounted premiums for full time students or retired people, so it's worth checking out.

Your Vehicle Storage

You can also reduce your premium by keeping your vehicle in a more scure place whilst at home.

A securely locked garage is the common one, but also private driveway or allocated parking is much better than the public roadside.

Multiple Policies

Most UK insurers offer a number of products that most of us would require at som point in our lives, such as car, home and travel insurance and also other levels of insurance such as pet, car breakdown, life cover,critical illness and maybe home emergencies may also be available.

When shopping around, just ask if multi policy discounts are available.

Voluntary Excess

Many insurance providers will allow you to specify a higher excess in case of a claim to reduce your overall premium, it is important for you to evaluate which is more sensible for your personal situation to decide if you would rather pay a little more monthly or risk having to pay a higher excess in the case of a claim.

Security

Find out what security features your car has fitted as standard or have been fitted by a previous owner.

Manufacturer approved car alarms, immobilisers and tracker systems can all reduce the premiums too.

Driving Qualifications

The Institute of advanced motorists run the advanced driving test which assesses driver performance, safety, driver ability, control and speed.

If you pass the test, then you will gain advanced motoring qualifications which a number of insureres recognise and wil therefore offer you cheaper premiums to these qualified drivers, aswell as saving you money, this will also teach you techniques to become a better driver, so this is a plus for you.

Limited Mileage

Many motorists in the UK reduce their premium by limiting the amount of mileage they do each year, from the insurers perspective, they see lower mileage motorists as lower risk due to the fact that they will spend less time on the road.

You may be asked your annual mileage when you obtain your quote and if you are a below average mileage motorist, you should benefit from a reduction in your premium.

Student Insurance

In the UK there are now more companies that specialize in insurance for students, sometimes students car insurance can be cheaper if you are living with your parents rather that a halls of residence.

Traditionally seen as a high risk group, students insurance premiums are now much more reasonable, but there are still some big cost differences depending on whether you are buying 3rd party fire and theft or fully comprehensive insurance, it is best to shop around for online car insurance discounts.

Motor Insurance For The Over 50's

The average over 50's driver represents a lower risk compared to the average UK car driver, and so the premiums are often quite lower as a result.

The older driver usually has a proven track record of careful driving which helps reduce this.

Seek out a company dedicated to over 50's motor insurance in the UK, if you feel that your current insurer is not rewarding you in this respect.

Multiple Cars

Although similar with placing all of your different insurance needs with one company, the same applies if you have more than one car, in many cases your overall quote will be reduced by insuring more than one vehicle with the same company.

This can make things more simple too, by giving you just one point of contact for all of your motor insurance requirements.

Modified Cars

If you are planning to modify your car, check the implications with your insurer, as most insurers hike the premiums up if cars are or have been modified.

If you are buying a modified car, check with your insurer or speak to a specialist insurer in providing modified car insurance, many of these specialsts will save you money compared to the large insurance brands.

The Important Point Checklist

When you are going to phone for an insurance quote for your car have these details at the ready before you do, as it will save time:

• Details of your vehicle make, model and year of manufacture.
• Details of any modifications to the engine or specifiation.
• Details of all named drivers you wish to include in the policy, including drivers convictions and claims.
• Full address of where the car is kept overnight.
• Proof of any no claims bonus.
• Make and model of any alarm, immobiliser or tracker system.
• Estimated annual mileage and vehicle value.

Also before you make the call about your car insurance quote make sure tht you are clear and have answered these questions thorughly in your own mind before settling on an insurance provider:

1. Can I save on my premium by paying a higher excess?
2. Can I pay by monthly instalments and does this make the overall premium more expensive?
3. What security equipment would discount my premium if it were to be fitted to my vehicle?
4. Can I get a lower premium for a reduced annual mileage?
5. Is 24hr accident recovery included or is there a discount on this as an extra if I buy my policy with you?
6. Would I get a free courtesy car in the event of an accident?

In closing try to get as many quotes as you can considering all of the above points.

"Always consult an approved legal representative to see what your complete obligations are regarding any credit or insurance contract you enter into"