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Internet or phone
Most insurance companies would prefer customers to use the internet if possible as this saves money on their staff costs.
To encourage the use of the internet, some insurers give up to 20 per cent discount off new business premiums.
Some companies will now ‘haggle’ over premiums, so if you arm yourself with competitive prices, it is possible to achieve a better result by ringing and asking for a better deal.
Norwich Union, Kwik Fit and Swinton for instance, occasionally offer substantial discounts if you commit to buy there and then, so always ring them last.
It is fair to say that for a normal risk without serious accidents or convictions, even for many ‘exotic cars’, the internet will prove the best bet.
But for more serious accidents or convictions, and non standard cars, imports, left hand drive, modified etc, a phone call will prove better.
Beware of Local Rate numbers for quotes i.e. use freephone where possible:
• E Sure & Associates 0845
• Direct Line & Associates 0845
Comments
Used properly the internet can usually save you money, use it where possible.
When phoning local rate numbers, don’t hang on the line listening to recordings or music, as you might as well throw money down a drain.
NB
Some insurers make you use a high-tariff number when contacting them for any reason other than a quote.
They often keep clients hanging on and it is in their interests to make your calls as long as possible as they are receiving money from the phone company.
This all seems rather greedy (numbers usually begin with 0870).
Most notably AA, Auto-Direct, Hastings, Kwik Fit, Budget, Admiral and RAC. |
