A guide to car insurance:

Car insurance premiums are notoriously high for new drivers, with research from a comparison website in November 2009 revealing that one year's comprehensive car insurance for a 17-year-olds typically averages £2,455. So how can you get a good deal that offers the right level of cover without paying over the odds.

Choosing the right car insurance cover

One of the most important steps for new drivers is to think about the level of car insurance they need. Broadly, there are three types available:

Third party only:

covers drivers against liability for injuries to third parties, damage to their property and liability while towing a caravan or trailer.

Third party, fire and theft:

As with third party cover but with cover for your own vehicle against theft, damages obtained during an attempted theft and fire damage.

Comprehensive:

The most complete form of car insurance, this covers everything i third party, fire and theft plus cover for your own vehicle against loss or damages obtained during an accident, subject to exclusions. Policies vary widely between providers but can also incorporate accidental damage, medical expenses, windscreen cover and cover for personel effects.

Whilst higher levels of car insurance cover means you are better protected in case an accident occurs, think carefully about the cover for you. For example, if you drive a relitively inexpensive vehicle you may prefer a third party policy as with comprehensive cover you may pay more for premiums in one year than you did for the vehicle itself. If you opt for ciomprehensive cover, don't pay for options you don't need - foe example, you may not need cover for 'business use' of a vehicle if you only use it for commuting.

Car insurance terms to watch out for

Excess:

This is your contribution to a claim. Choosing a high excess will usually lower premiums, but only set a level you can comfortably afford.

Exclusions:

These are circumstances in which you will not be covered - for example, most insurers will not cover motorists to drive other vehicles in emergency situations if they are under the age of 25.

No - claims bonus:

This is a discount for not making a claim on your insurance and could reduce premiums by as much as 60 per cent after four or more years. New drivers can sometime benefit from rapid bonus schemes allowing them to earn a full year's bonus in less than 12 months.

How to lower car insurance premiums

Here are some tips to help you secure the cheapest premium.

Agree to a mileage limit:

The fewer miles you drive, the lower premiums may be.

Increase security:

Many companies offer discounts if you install recommended car alarms, immobilisers and tracking devices.

Park safely:

Insurers usually lower premiums if you park in a locked garage overnight.

Pass Plus:

The Pass Plus advanced driving course could reduce premiums by as much as 35 per cent with some insurers. Assistance with the cost of the course may be available from your local authority.

Pay annualy:

Paying upfront will avoid monthly interest charges.

Shop around:

Compare quotes online using a comparison website - just remember the cheapest policy isn't  always the best. Don't overlook specialist drivers car insurance.
these are polices that don't tie you into a long term contract.

Further information on learner driver car insurance can be found at