Research from the Institute of Advanced Motorists demonstrates that nearly 50% of men under 20 years of age who are killed or seriously injured in car crashes were driving vehicles more than 10 years old
Motoring on Female First
Research published last month by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) demonstrates the correlation between the high rate of deaths amongst male drivers under twenty-years-of-age and the old cars that they have been driving.
Young Marmalade, the young drivers’ insurance champion, also discovered that young drivers are more likely to drive more carefully in a more valuable car and this will lead to reduced accidents.
The obvious conclusion is that young drivers are safer driving newer, low powered cars with more safety features.
The Institute also highlighted what to look for when choosing a first car for a young driver. Their suggestions include:
* New Car Assessment Programme rating - purchasers should check for four stars in the adult rating category but don’t accept less than three even for older vehicles.
* Insurance group - group three or under is recommended. This allows a wide choice of small cars and makes premiums cheaper while no-claims discount multiplies.
* Manufactures’ warranty - longer manufactures’ warranties are becoming the norm. There are now plenty of used cars available that are still covered. Check the small print; there may be mileage restrictions.
* Depreciation - vehicles depreciate at differing rates. Be aware that a three-year-old bargain my turn out to be worth very little when you sell it.
* Mileage - many small cars are only used for local trips and don’t clock up high mileage. Don’t pay too much for a low mileage car.
Nigel Lacy, co-founder of Young Marmalade said: "We fully support the IAM recommendations but at Young Marmalade we have taken that thinking a stage further and offer the car and insurance as a combined package."
Young Marmalade provides small-engined, quality cars with excellent safety features and insurance as a combined package. By purchasing cars in volume Young Marmalade is able to offer reduced premiums for young drivers.
IAM director of policy and research Neil Greig said: "It makes sense that any driver will take better care of a new car, and especially one which they’re still paying for.
"Young drivers are the highest risk group on our roads and the insurance industry claims that 20 per cent of young drivers crash in their first year.
"Parents should help their child choose the best car they can get for their money. A new car won’t be an option for everybody but there are plenty of used cars that will be almost as good - you do need to do some thorough research though."
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