Drive dangerously and pay the price
Christmas is a dangerous time on our road, with families taking long-haul trips, and revellers deciding to take chances on drink driving, among other factors.
A total of 97 people died on our roads last month, according to the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development figures, and while this is 11.5 per cent lower than the average over the last five years, the figures still remain confronting. If these stats aren’t enough to convince drivers, maybe this timely reminder that dangerous driving can cost a lot more than a hefty fine will assist.
The financial costs of driving dangerously
What many drivers may not realise is that a dangerous driving offence or losing your licence could double your comprehensive car insurance excess.
In general, car insurance providers won’t directly penalise customers for losing a few demerit points from speeding if your licence is intact, but dangerous driving or loss of licence could double your excess or refuse cover in some circumstances.
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“Many drivers may not realise that losing all of your points or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol could impact the cost of your comprehensive car insurance for the next five years or longer, depending on your car insurance provider,” said Sally Tindall, RateCity Money Editor.
“That’s because drivers who have lost their licence or have restrictions are seen as being a greater risk to insure.
“When looking for comprehensive car insurance, make sure you read the fine print to understand what could happen in the event of losing your licence or getting a dangerous driving charge, but the best way to avoid this happening is to drive safely at all times,” she said.
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Disclaimer
This article is over two years old, last updated on June 15, 2011. While RateCity makes best efforts to update every important article regularly, the information in this piece may not be as relevant as it once was. Alternatively, please consider checking recent car loans articles.
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