Whether liability, partial or fully comprehensive insurance: Many car insurance companies are increasing their rates for the coming year, usually in the double-digit percentage range, according to the comparison portals Verivox and Check24. On average, the increase is 13 percent. Affected customers should look for a cheaper alternative and make use of their special right of termination. According to Stiftung Warentest, several hundred euros can often be saved per year.
It can also be worthwhile for insured persons whose premium has not been increased, for example to a cheaper tariff of the existing insurance company or to another. Most contracts are valid for one insurance year at a time, i.e. they can be terminated at the end of the year, the notice period is one month. The cancellation letter must therefore be received by the insurer by 30 November at the latest.
How do you find the right offer?
In the rather confusing market with many providers, it is not easy to find the right offer. In addition to the car model, engine power and place of residence, numerous other criteria have long been included in the price: such as the age of the driver, the annual kilometres driven, the type of parking space or the waiver of the choice of workshop in the event of damage. The so-called no-claims class (SF class) also has an effect on the insurance premium: Those who drive for a longer period of time without an accident are classified higher and pay less.
Free comparison portals provide an overview and advertise to filter out the cheapest insurance. But not all of them work independently and take all insurers into account when searching, such as low-cost direct insurers. Some providers receive a commission if the insurance is taken out through their site. It therefore makes sense to compare the evaluations of several portals. Complete independence and the comparison of almost all providers is promised by the Stiftung Warentest with their tariff calculator. Unlocking all tips and results costs 4.90 euros. The Association of Insured Persons (BdV) offers a free Online comparison.
Be sure to compare the benefits of car insurance
When choosing insurance, consumers should not only look at the costs, but also check the benefits. Some examples of dispensable or particularly important services:
- Passenger accident insurance is usually superfluous, because passengers are protected by the driver's liability.
- The sum insured in liability should be at least 100 million euros.
- With fully comprehensive insurance, make sure that no reduction has been agreed in the event of gross negligence.
- In the event of wildlife accidents, damage to all animals and not just furry game should be insured.
- Partial comprehensive insurance was intended to cover the consequences of marten bites. Especially with electric cars, such damage can be very expensive.
- If you drive an electric car, you should also insure the battery.
Car insurance: Negotiating can pay off
If you don't want to change your insurance, you can try to negotiate better conditions or change the tariff. Insurance companies often offer a recalculation if the customer asks or threatens to cancel. It is helpful to name cheaper offers from the competition and to point out certain circumstances. For example, if you have previously parked on the street, but now use a garage or can prove that you only drive a few thousand kilometers a year, you can expect a cheaper rate. Another tip: It is cheaper to pay the insurance annually than half-yearly or quarterly.
Immediate change for a new vehicle
Anyone who sells their old car and buys a new one may terminate the existing contract immediately. The car insurance is terminated when you deregister with the registration office. The insurance cover always refers to a specific vehicle. Customers can then switch to a new provider immediately.
source : Change car insurance by the end of November and save money | NDR.de - Guide - Consumers