It’s no secret that the cost of driving these days is pretty high. In fact, for many the cost is proving to be unattainable. With the average cost estimated at £19,000 over a driver’s lifetime, is it really worth learning these days?
Is the cost of driving prohibitive?Expensive necessity
The cost of driving has had a significant impact on young drivers.
The cost of learning, buying a new car, getting insurance, paying for fuel and then having regular services is proving to be really unaffordable.
The trouble is it’s hard to get by without driving.
Not owning a car will limit your options when jobseeking and not being able to drive will even stop you from being able to apply to some jobs. It might be expensive, but for many people it’s something you simply can’t afford not to do.
The Guardian has recently published an article highlighting the plight of young drivers.
However, as it also mentions, there are ways to bring the cost down. If you’re struggling to get and stay on the road then there are a few things that can help.
Bringing down the costs
There are various ways you can bring down the cost of driving as a young driver. The insurance is by far one of the biggest expenses you need to worry about. So how can you lower it when you have no prior driving experience? The answer is to shop around.
Not all insurers penalise young drivers.
While the cost is always going to be higher, some insurers offer pretty reasonable quotes. The key to getting a lower quote is to ensure you are buying a second hand, older car.
While a sporty, souped-up model may be the more appealing choice, an older, more reliable and fuel-efficient model will cost significantly less to insure. So be smart and choose your car carefully.
Black box insurance can also be a handy option for new drivers.
The type of fuel a car uses also makes a big difference. As featured on the Money Advice Service website, there are ways you can limit your fuel consumption such as driving carefully and not driving so fast. However, the type of engine you choose also matters. Diesel engines tend to cost less to run than petrol ones these and although a litre of diesel is slightly more expensive it will get you further and be more cost effective in the long run.
How technological advancements have helped
Advancements in technology have really helped to lower the cost of driving.
It has even helped lower the cost of learning to drive. With free mock theory tests available, you can revise and see exactly what questions you can expect on the test. This increases your chances of passing first time.
There are also smartphone apps which provide advice on the practical test, again ensuring you pass a lot sooner.
Using these technological tools, you can help to lower the cost of learning, making it much more attainable.
Overall driving is an expensive thing, but it is definitely worthwhile. By following the advice and tips above, you should be able to lower the cost and make it much more affordable.
Remember to compare your options and do as much research as possible before you choose a car.
Finding out how much it will cost on the insurance before you buy will help you to find a car that is within your budget.
Owning a car may be expensive but that £19,000 investment may well be worth it over a lifetime if it gets you a better job.
The trick is to save as much as you can to bring that cost down, then it’ll definitely feel worth it.