Average cost of insurance after a driving ban

After a driving ban, one of the biggest worries you might face is the cost of getting back on the road. It's widely known that a driving conviction can lead to higher insurance premiums, but how much higher? And is it even possible to give a ballpark figure considering the myriad of factors at play? Let's look into this subject and shed some light on the financial implications of finding insurance after a driving ban.

Why does insurance cost more after a driving ban?

Insurance companies assess risk when determining premiums. A driving ban signals to insurers that you're a higher risk compared to someone with a clean driving record. This risk assessment is based on statistics showing that drivers with convictions are more likely to be involved in accidents or make claims. Consequently, the cost of your insurance cover is likely to increase post-ban.

What factors influence the cost of insurance after a ban?

Several variables come into play when insurance companies calculate your premium after a driving ban:

• The nature of the offence: The reason for your driving ban can significantly affect your premium. For example, insurance costs might be higher for those banned for dangerous driving compared to a ban for accumulating penalty points.
• Length of the ban: Generally, the longer the ban, the higher the perceived risk, which can lead to increased insurance costs.
• Your driving history: Insurers will look at your entire driving history, not just your recent ban. A pattern of offences is likely to result in higher premiums than a one-off mistake.
• The type of car you drive: As with any insurance quote, the make, model, and engine size of your car will impact the cost of your cover.
• Your location: Where you live can influence your insurance premium. Areas with higher rates of theft and accidents typically see higher insurance costs.

Is it possible to estimate an average insurance cost post-ban?

Given the variety of factors involved, pinpointing an average cost for insurance after a driving ban is challenging. Insurance premiums can vary widely from one individual to another, even for motorists with similar convictions. Premiums could range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds more per year than someone with a clean licence.

However, to give some context, a driver with a standard car and a clean record might pay around ??500 per year for insurance, whilst the same driver with a conviction could see this increase by 50% to 100%, or even more, depending on the specifics of their situation. It's essential to remember these figures are illustrative and can vary widely.

How can I find more affordable insurance after a ban?

While your insurance cost is likely to increase post-ban, there are steps you can take to find more affordable cover:

• Shop around: Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Use comparison websites and get quotes from insurers specialising in cover for drivers with convictions.
• Consider a telematics policy: These 'black box' policies base your premium on your driving behaviour rather than just your driving history.
• Choose your car wisely: Driving a less powerful car can lead to lower insurance costs.
• Improve your driving: Taking an advanced driving course can prove to insurers that you're committed to safe driving, potentially reducing your premium.

Rebuilding your driving history takes time, but insurers will gradually view you as less of a risk, leading to lower premiums in the future.

What should I remember when looking for insurance post-ban?

Finding affordable insurance after a driving ban requires patience and honesty. Always be upfront about your driving history when applying for cover. Omitting details about your ban can invalidate your policy, leaving you uninsured and in a legal grey area.

It's also worth remembering that the insurance landscape is constantly changing. What might have been true about insurance costs and policies a year ago could be different now. Keeping up to date and shopping around at each renewal can help you find the best possible deal.

Having a driving ban doesn't mean the end of your driving journey. With the right approach, finding insurance at a reasonable cost is possible. Everyone deserves a second chance, and many insurers recognise this. By focusing on safe driving and making informed choices about your insurance, you can get back on the road with confidence.

Looking for insurance after a driving ban can feel like an uphill battle, but remember, you're not alone. Many drivers successfully find cover each year that allows them to move past their convictions and enjoy the freedom of the road once more. If you're in this situation, why not click the quote button now to explore your options for convicted driver vehicle insurance quotes? Taking this step could be the beginning of a new chapter in your driving life.