Car Insurance

Everyday people are signing on car insurance policies. There is typically a substantial amount of paperwork involved and many items to read. One of the most important aspects about an automobile policy is the named driver. Essentially, a named driver is the main driver, along with any other drivers that are specifically named on the auto insurance policy. Many people run into this situation when they have more than one person in their household that can drive.

For a larger family, a named driver is a good thing. This means that each person does not have to have their own separate policy for the same car. In larger families, not everyone typically has their own vehicle. This allows for flexibility and saved money in that case.

A drawback, and possible the largest drawback, is the fact that the insurance premium does go up for every driver that you add to the insurance policy. The insurance company does this because as a driver is added, their risk goes up a lot. In other words, you might be a great driver, however, your brother might not be. If your brother is living in the home and is of driving age, there is a good chance that he might have to drive your car at one point or another. His bad record could also affect your premium even more at that point. This also increases if the named drivers are younger or new drivers.

If there is a point in time where someone will be driving your car for a lengthened period of time, you may want to consider adding them on as a temporary named driver. It is known that some insurance policies do not have this feature, so make sure yours does before you decide to sign on the line. This usually comes in great handy for family trips, someone?s car breaking down and seasonal visitors.

Always remember you are responsible for your own vehicle. This means, if you allow someone one drive you car while not on the policy as a named driver, you are putting yourself at great risk. If an accident came about, you would ultimately be responsible and have to pay damages, get sued and more.

There are other ways to save on car insurance cost in a legal way. You can do one of two things when you have a young driver on a policy. First, instead of the new, young driver getting their own policy, they can go on their parent?s policy. Now, although this has worked well in the past, many insurance companies are very aware of this practice and are trying to head it off. Some insurance companies will actually void your insurance; be sure to check with your local agent.

Another option is just the opposite. The parents can be on the new driver?s policy. Any way you have it, it still saves money because there are responsible and proven good drivers on the record. This, in turn, eliminates some risk for the insurance company from their perspective.

As you can see, a named driver is essential to the whole automobile insurance process and can sometimes add up depending on the situation at hand. Always check your options and shop around.

Graham McKenzie is the content syndication coordinator for Carinsurancesa.co.za. South Arica?s leading car insurance portal.