Car Insurance for P-Platers

If I’m driving my parents’ car, am I already covered?

If you don’t have your own car yet and drive your parent’s car, you may need to check if you’re covered by their policy. Often an insurer may charge an increased premium for drivers under 25 and you may have to be named on the policy. Most of the time there’ll be an increased excess to pay in the event of an accident. You should discuss with your parents if they have checked with their insurer if you’re covered and what excess they may be liable for in the event of an accident.

What types of Car Insurance are available for P-Platers?

P-Platers often have the same Car Insurance options available as Australians with a full licence. Which insurance you choose depends on you, your car, and your finances. Here’s a brief outline:

Compulsory Third Party Insurance (CTP)

CTP, also known as ‘Green Slip insurance’, is mandatory for every driver in Australia. In some States it’s included automatically whenever you pay for your cars registration. It covers you in the case of accidental injury or death to another person caused by your driving. It will pay for medical and some legal costs, but it won’t pay for any property damage or for any of your own medical costs.

Third Party Property Insurance (TPP)

TPP helps cover damage to other people’s vehicles and property caused by an accident that was your fault. It doesn’t cover damages to your car or property though. With TPP, you’ll be responsible for the costs of replacing or repairing your own car if the accident was your fault.

Third Party Fire and Theft (TPF&T)

Third Party Fire and Theft insurance helps cover third party property damage as above, but also includes coverage for damage to your car because of fire or theft. Remember, this cover still doesn’t cover damage caused to your car or property in an at-fault accident.

Comprehensive

Comprehensive Car Insurance is the top level of cover and is generally the most expensive. If you have an accident, it can cover you, your car and other people and their property. A Comprehensive policy often comes with options to add extras to your cover like a hire car or roadside assistance and personal effects cover. These options vary between providers and some may be covered in the original premium, so it’s important to check out the policies, Policy Disclosure Statement (PDS) before making any purchasing decisions

What isn’t covered?

Car Insurance is only valid if you follow the conditions of the law and the policy itself. If you don’t, it could leave you uninsured if you need to claim. You can check all of the conditions on your policy document, but here are a few of the rules you must follow.

• Always drive within the speed limit.
• Make sure you provide accurate vehicle and driver information to your insurer.
• Don’t use a mobile phone while driving
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Check how many passengers you’re allowed to carry (this may vary between states).
• Stick to the road rules.

Does Car Insurance cost more for P-Platers?

Generally, yes. P-Platers tend to be younger, less experienced and, statistically, they’re a greater risk to insurers. So, if there’s a greater risk they’ll have to pay out, insurers will charge a higher premium. The good news is that these premiums will usually come down as you get older if you have maintained a good driving history.

How you could save on Car Insurance as a P-Plater

As we mentioned above, insurers calculate their premiums based on evaluating risk. Have you considered:

• Keep your car in a locked garage overnight.
• Choose a higher excess. You’ll pay more in the event of an accident, but pay less premium to start with.
• Keep and eye out for online discounts
• Start earning no claims bonuses. Some insurers may offer you an increased discount for each year you’re insured without making a claim.
• Always check around for cheaper prices when your policy is up for renewal. Remember though, look for a suitable policy at a Suitable price. Good value doesn’t always mean the cheapest.

Avoid these pitfalls.

Lack of experience can mean P-Platers make some costly mistakes with their Car Insurance. Here are a few things to bear in mind.

• Make sure you get the cover that’s appropriate for your vehicle. It’s pointless paying too much to over insure a low-cost car. On the other hand, an accident could cost you a fortune if you don’t adequately insure a more expensive model.
• List all drivers. Check with your insurer, but if a driver isn’t named on your policy, they may not be insured.
• Always shop around. Premiums can vary a lot so don’t just take the first policy you’re offered. Check a selection of providers and choose the one that gives you the cover and premium that suits you.
• If you’ve taken out a loan, check if your finance company requires that you take out a comprehensive policy
• Tell your insurer everything. If your circumstances change, like your address, driving record or if your car is modified in any way, make sure your insurer is fully informed. If not, you run the risk of not being covered when you claim.

As a P-Platers, how can I find a Car Insurance policy that fits my budget? If you’re ready to see what insurance options are out there for you, you need to check out premiums, excesses, exclusions and other policy features. The good news is, it’s not as difficult as it sounds.

With a little help from us here at iSelect, you can get a quick, easy quote online with our Car Insurance comparison tool. Or if you’d rather talk it out, call 13 19 20 and one of our consultants will help you compare and understand your different options for P-Platers Car Insurance.

Last updated: 08/02/2022