Every new driver dreams of this: finally not only you have your driving license in your pocket, you even have your own vehicle at your front door. But if you want to enjoy the great freedom on four wheels, there are some things you need to consider, including car insurance for young drivers. So that your driving experience becomes a safe pleasure please analyse the next 6 points.
Guide
TIPS FOR NEW DRIVERS - 6 POINTS YOU SHOULD PAY ATTENTION TO WHEN INSURING YOUR CAR
1. New drivers or young drivers? The difference:
Young drivers in Switzerland are usually drivers under 25 years of age. New drivers, on the other hand, are often drivers who have had a driving license for less than 2 years (regardless of age). This means that most young drivers are also new drivers, but not all new drivers are young drivers.
2. Liability or casco insurance? The right car insurance for new drivers
There is no adequate insurance for new drivers. The needs and budgets are too different. So that you can find the right offer for you, we have summarized here the most important features of the liability insurance, partial casco and full casco for you. And for more details on casco insurance, here is our casco insurance guide.
- Liability: The liability insurance covers damage you cause to third parties with your vehicle - for example if you touch another car while parking or if you hit a cyclist when turning with your car. It is compulsory in Switzerland and is a prerequisite for the registration of your vehicle. Among other things, new drivers in particular should ensure that their liability insurance includes protection against negligence (as those who have not yet collected many kilometers will quickly neglect a right of way or a stop sign).
- Partial casco: Roughly speaking, partial casco covers damage to your vehicle for which neither you nor another driver is at fault. For example, it pays for a crack in the windscreen, hail damage or martens bites. No matter whether it is a new driver or a more experienced person, partial casco always makes sense.
- Full casco: The full casco insurance protects you from the consequences of a collision, whether with a pole or another vehicle. In contrast to partial casco, full casco insurance also covers damage to your car for which you are responsible. This makes it the ideal protection for beginner drivers and novices who do not have much experience in road traffic.
3. Deductible for novice drivers: it is worth comparing
Whether you are a new or young driver, anyone on the road needs insurance. Depending on the company, there are special offers for novice drivers. So be sure to compare the different offers if you are looking for car insurance for new drivers. Many insurance companies have an additional deductible for beginner drivers: depending on the insurance company, you pay up to CHF 1000 out of your own pocket in the event of a claim. Our car insurance does not generally have an excess for young or new drivers. By the way: In our guide you will find even more tips on how to compare Comparis offers etc.
4. Drive defensively and cheaply
Surpass the truck before the curve? Many novice drivers do not have the necessary experience to assess traffic situations well and to react correctly if necessary. Hence our recommendation: Drive defensively rather than aggressively. Do not take risks by endangering yourself and others. And don't let yourself be upset when parking, but take your time. After all, everyone started out as a novice driver. By the way, driving carefully is also worth financially: many insurance companies offer lower premiums every year if you don't have an accident. (You can find out more in our bonus protection guide).
5. No drinking and driving
Drivers don't drink. Of course, this doesn't just apply to young and new drivers. But there is a strict zero tolerance for novice drivers. Anyone who drives with alcohol in his blood can face serious consequences. The probationary period is extended by one year if you are caught driving with alcohol. And for repeat offenders: the license is confiscated for one year and the insurance cover expires before the license can be applied for again after twelve months. In addition, there are also consequences under criminal law. Therefore: new drivers should keep their hands better away from alcohol or from the wheel.
6. Starting and passing the WAB course
Statistically speaking, new or young drivers cause more accidents than experienced drivers. That is why all young and new drivers whose driving license expires in 2020 or later must complete the one-day WAB course at a recognized centre for safe driving. In this one-day course, beginners learn to recognize and avoid dangerous traffic situations. They also increase their sense of traffic. Only those who have successfully completed the course can apply for an unlimited driving license after the probationary period (and thus get rid of the annoying deductible that some insurance companies have defined for young and new drivers).
Conclusion
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