Did you know your relationship status could be costing you hundreds on car insurance? A recent analysis uncovers a surprising disparity in premiums based on whether you're single, married, or divorced. It's a wake-up call for drivers looking to keep costs in check.
According to The Sun, UK, a study by MoneySuperMarket, analyzing policies sold between January 1 and July 4, 2025, shows that single drivers pay significantly more for car insurance than their married, separated, divorced, or widowed counterparts, with differences reaching up to £362.80 annually.
Let's break down the numbers. Single drivers face the highest average premium at £859.04 per year for domestic and commuting use. Meanwhile, separated drivers pay just £496.24 on average—a staggering £362.80 less.
Widowed drivers aren't far behind separated ones, with an average annual cost of £515.57. Married drivers, often viewed as more stable by insurers, pay £721.35 on average. These gaps highlight how personal details can sway financial burdens.
Why does this happen? Insurers assess risk using various factors, and marital status plays a role. Single drivers are often seen as riskier, while married individuals are perceived as less accident-prone and more financially secure.
Other elements also influence premiums. Think annual mileage, occupation, car model, location, age, and no claims discount—all feed into the pricing model. High mileage or a flashy car can jack up costs just as much as being single.
Alicia Hempsted, a car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, explained, "Insurers consider lots of factors when pricing a premium." These include everything from driving experience to where you live. No one factor stands alone in setting your rate. She added, "Insurers use a model to assess an individual's risk." This approach means your profile gets crunched into a complex calculation.
Hempsted also noted, "This means that no single factor determines the price." It's a blend of data points, with marital status just one piece of the puzzle. Still, updating it accurately can yield big savings.
Car insurance is non-negotiable in the UK—driving without it risks fines up to £1,000, vehicle seizure, or even destruction. But for vehicles off public roads with a statutory off-road notification (SORN), coverage isn't required. Know the rules to avoid penalties.
Here's the good news: savings are possible. For instance, listing your status as divorced instead of single could cut costs by around £349 if accurate. Precision matters—don't fudge details, but ensure your policy reflects reality.
More ways to save include being honest about mileage—overstating it raises risk in insurers' eyes. Boost security with affordable tools like steering wheel locks or alarms, often under £35. Park off-road in a garage to lower theft risk.
Avoid car modifications that scream "high repair costs" to insurers. Paying annually instead of monthly dodges sneaky interest fees. These small choices add up to real money in your pocket.
Remember, insurance covers theft, damage, fire, or accidents, and at minimum, protects third parties if you're at fault. Claims typically kick in when you're responsible—otherwise, the other driver's policy should handle it. Understand your coverage to avoid surprises.
Ultimately, this data from MoneySuperMarket is a reminder: markets reward the informed. Scrutinize your policy, update personal details, and adopt cost-cutting habits. In a world of rising costs, frugality and attention to detail are your best tools for financial liberty.