Insurance

[bluebird34]

I recently had a collision in my car. No one was hurt but both cars needed some attention. The accident was my fault so my insurance company had to pay out. They have told me that i will lose my no claims bonus (obviously), and i am wondering how much difference this will make. I am 77 and my car - a Fiesta - is nearly as old although the garage said it was in excellent condition otherwise would have been considered a write off. My question is that as i do not use the car much now should i consider taking out just third party insurance now to keep costs down. I am not sure what third party covers, thank you x

[KJN]

The premium between third party and fully comp for you would not be much difference at all. Not really worth it in my opinion third party covers the other drivers costs in the case of an accident that was your fault, Amy damage to your car would not be covered I.e. the other person (third party) is covered but not you.

[bluebird34]

ok than you KJN

[Hopkirk]

It is worth getting quotes for both.

Mad as it may seem, comprehensive often comes out cheaper than third party only.

[EDDIE51]

Yes 3rd party will be more expensive than comprehensive.
With an accident to consider your next insurance is going to cost a fortune.
Sorry to mention it but you may find it is so high that it is not worth continuing to drive. At 77 you are now getting to the stage where the insurance companies think you are 'high risk' and load the premiums.

[bluebird34]

Oh Eddie you have given the answer that i was dreading, I only use the car for local journeys but would hate to have to give it up. I await my next quote with trepidation. Thank you all for taking the time to answer,

[Hopkirk]

As well as the price comparison sites, it may be worth speaking to an insurance broker such as Swintons

[boxtops]

You usually lose 2 years' bonus after a claim, if that helps you to work out what next year's premium might be if you stay with the same company.

[Hopkirk]

There is nothing to stop you putting your details into a price comparison site today, to see how much you get quoted.

[bluebird34]

I did think of comparison sites but thought that at my age with a recent claim and an old although reliable car I would be unlikely to receive a very low quote. I am with RIAS which is an insurance company for retired people so am hoping they will be sympathetic (not a word normally associated with insurance) but can only wait and hope. Insurance brokers are a mystery to me but will try almost anything to keep my car, as having a previously unblemished record i am hoping this will count in my favour. Anyway thank you all for your interest and helpful answers i am very grateful.Incidentally i hope this would not have made you answer differently but despite my username i am female!!!!