Whether you’re a seasoned black cab driver, a private hire operator, or managing a fleet of taxis, having the right taxi insurance in Northern Ireland (NI) is mandatory.
Insurance for taxis is often more expensive than for other vehicles, and although this may seem unfair at first, there are reasons for this. Taxi drivers drive a lot more than your average motorist. Although this makes them more experienced, in the eyes of insurers this makes them more likely to have an accident. The other reason is that taxi insurance also places more emphasis on insurance for passengers, who have paid for the service.
This guide will cover the different types of taxi insurance available, the factors affecting its cost, and tips for finding the cheapest taxi insurance in NI.
Types of Taxi Insurance in Northern Ireland
- Third Party Only: Covers damage caused to other vehicles and property in an accident you’re responsible for.
- Third Party Fire and Theft: It is the same cover as third party only, plus protection against fire and theft of your taxi.
- Comprehensive: It is the most extensive taxi insurance coverage that covers damage to your own vehicle, third party claims, fire, and theft.
- Any-Driver: Ideal for fleets, covering all drivers authorised to operate your taxis.
Additional Coverage Options:
Apart from the primary types of insurance listed above, there are some additional coverage options that you may want to consider:
- Hire and Reward: A type of insurance coverage designed to covers passenger injuries sustained during your taxi trips.
- Legal Expenses: It provides financial assistance if you need legal representation following an accident.
- Breakdown Cover: This policy offers roadside assistance and vehicle recovery in case of a breakdown.
How Much is Taxi Insurance in Northern Ireland?
Based on a recent survey, the average cost of taxi insurance in Northern Ireland is around £1,500 per year. However, some taxi drivers may pay as little as £500 or as much as £3,000 per year. The actual cost of taxi insurance in Northern Ireland is influenced by several factors, each playing a crucial role in determining the overall expense. These factors include the type of taxi you operate, such as black cabs or private hire vehicles, the chosen level of coverage (comprehensive, third party, etc.), your driving experience, and claims history, as well as your age and location. Generally, taxi insurance tends to be more expensive than regular car insurance due to the specialised nature of the coverage.
It’s important to know that taxi insurance for young drivers is even higher for under 25s, especially new drivers. This is because the inexperience makes under 25s a higher risk category of drivers. However, there are still ways to find affordable under 25 taxi insurance in Northern Ireland, such as black box insurance.
When seeking the cheapest taxi insurance in Northern Ireland, it’s advisable to engage in a thorough comparison of quotes from various insurers. While price comparison websites like CompareNI and Moneysupermarket can serve as useful starting points for getting taxi insurance quotes in Northern Ireland, the decision-making process should extend beyond merely selecting the lowest price. It’s crucial to consider the level of coverage provided and the insurer’s reputation. By carefully evaluating these factors and taking advantage of available discounts, you can identify competitive taxi insurance rates in NI.
Tips for Finding the Best Taxi Insurance in Northern Ireland
Discovering the best taxi insurance in Northern Ireland involves several key tips. Firstly, it’s crucial to be honest and accurate when providing information about your driving history and claims. This ensures that the insurance quotes you receive accurately reflect your situation. To avoid paying for unnecessary extras, understand the level or type of coverage you need.
You should also inquire about potential discounts and special offers that may be available. This could include discounts for young drivers, low mileage drivers, or other categories. If you manage multiple taxis, consider a fleet insurance policy for negotiated rates. Enhanced vehicle security measures like alarms and immobilisers can make your vehicles less attractive to theft, potentially lowering your premium.
Lastly, before finalizing any agreement, carefully read the policy terms and conditions to be fully aware of the coverage provided and any associated terms. By following these tips and doing your research, you can find the best taxi insurance in Northern Ireland to meet your needs and budget.
Top Taxi Insurance Companies in Northern Ireland
Several reputable insurance companies provide taxi insurance in Northern Ireland, including:
- Axa: Renowned for their competitive taxi cover rates and a wide range of comprehensive coverage options in NI. It has discounts for advanced driver training and telematics systems. While Axa no longer directly insures new taxi customers, you can still obtain coverage through your local broker.
- Allianz: One of the best taxi insurance providers in NI with flexible payment options, monthly payments, windscreen cover, discounts for advanced driver training and discounted taxi fleet insurance.
- Carole Nash: Specialises in young driver insurance, providing competitive taxi insurance rates for under 25s. It’s perfect for new taxi drivers entering the market.
- Apricot Insurance: A taxi insurance broker in Northern Ireland, comparing quotes from multiple NI-based providers to help you find a quality policy at a great price. If you fill out their online form, you will get a quote in minutes.
- 123.ie: 123.ie offers a 10% discount on your car insurance when you bundle it with your existing home policy. Adding your spouse or civil partner to the car policy earns you another 10% discount. Its multi-vehicle discounts are ideal for taxi fleet operators or drivers with multiple vehicles.
- Todd Insurance: Todd is one of the largest insurance brokers in Northern Ireland, offering tailored taxi insurance policies and expert advice.
- Abbey Insurance: This is one of the best options for new drivers and those with limited driving experience. In addition, Abbey Autoline offers a single policy for your fleet of at least three taxi vehicles. You can even extend social and domestic cover to non-taxi drivers.
Taxi Insurance in Northern Ireland: Key Points
Finding the best taxi insurance is about balancing cost with coverage that meets your needs. Do your research, compare quotes, and choose the policy that aligns with your budget. Young drivers, particularly those under 25, may face higher premiums due to their inexperience. However, options like black box insurance can offer potential cost savings. Determining the overall premium involves aspects like the type and level of coverage, driving experience and history, age, location, and even the vehicle itself (black cab vs. private hire).
Additionally, exploring available discounts and special offers, such as those for young drivers, low mileage drivers, fleet insurance, or enhanced vehicle security, can potentially reduce premiums. Finally, carefully reading the policy terms and conditions ensures a thorough understanding of the coverage and any associated terms.