Category: Blog

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Several factors affect car insurance. When insuring your car, you will be asked if your car has any modifications. An insurer sets a policy price for your vehicle and considers the chance of it being stolen or involved in an accident. 

Car modifications can have a significant impact on your policy prices. Your insurer may feel there’s a higher risk of your car getting in an accident than with no modifications. Modifications that affect a vehicle’s performance are more likely to increase the price you pay. 

You must tell your insurer of any modification to your car, which must be completed at a professional garage. 

Do I Need To Declare Every Modification?

There are essentially two categories of car modifications. Some modifications enhance your car’s performance or appearance, and you must declare any of these modifications to your insurer. Without declaring these modifications, it could cause your insurance to be invalidated, and your claim refused if you’re in an accident.

There is no point in beating around the bush to ensure you must be as truthful and detailed as possible. You will avoid an increase in your policy premium due to “unforeseen risk”.

What Modifications Will Not Affect My Insurance?

Any car modifications that increase the security of your car will not affect your insurance. Extra locking devices, for example, can reduce the risk of theft or accident in your vehicle. It could even help decrease the cost of your policy.

Installing winter tyres will not affect your car as they help improve your handling in challenging winter conditions such as snow and ice. 

As you can see, while these modifications do not affect the price of your insurance, it’s still important to declare them.

Have you ever made modifications to your car?

What Modifications Could Invalidate My Insurance?  

Essentially any modification that results in you breaking the law will cause your insurance to be invalidated. This includes:

• Under car neon lights
• Illegal changes to wheels 
• Sound modifiers
• Tinted windows that restrict more than 70% of sunlight

Is it Mainly Young People Making Car Modifications?

You would think it’s all young drivers modding their cars, but you would be surprised. Older drivers are known to install parking sensors to help them park safely in space. 

 

As you can tell, it’s not something that would negatively impact your insurance as it’s trying to reduce the risk of a crash.

 

What Should I Do If I Modify My Car?

If you want to modify your car, it’s best to talk to your insurer before you do it rather than after. Something minor, like paintwork, could raise your premium. So you will want to know the outcome of your modification before getting it done. 

It only impacts your insurance if you do not let your insurer know. It may cause complications if you make a claim and they find undeclared modifications on your car.

If you have further questions about Car Insurance in general or with KennCo, we have compiled all our FAQ’s to help you. If you still have a query, our agents are on 014092600 to assist you over the phone.

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Being involved in a car accident is a stressful time for any driver, whether you’re at fault or not. If it’s your first time, you may be unsure of the correct procedure to follow. 

1. Stop at the Scene

Failing to stop at the scene of a car accident is an offence in Ireland. You are required by law to stop your vehicle at the scene of the accident, no matter how minor the accident is. For safety reasons, you should turn on the hazard lights and turn off the engine. If it is safe to do so you should step out of your vehicle and stand in a safe place.

2. Swap details with the other driver

Exchange names, phone numbers and addresses with the other driver. If there is not any serious damage or injuries and the accident is undisputed, then you do not need to call the Gardaí. If you hit an unoccupied car, you should leave your contact details on the car so that the owner can contact you. It is also advised that you take note of the insurance details of the other car, regardless of who is at fault. Taking some pictures of the accident, and damage to vehicles is also helpful when reporting an accident.

3. Contact Emergency Services

The gardaí and an ambulance should be called immediately if anyone is injured. A warning triangle should be placed on the road to warn other drivers of the obstruction ahead while you are waiting for emergency services to arrive.  

If a car accident occurs on a busy road, you may need to call the gardaí to direct traffic if your car is blocking the road. 

If you are involved in an accident where the gardaí are unable to attend, you should report the incident to your local garda station within the next 24 hours if possible. 

4. Make a Note of the Details

While you are still at the scene of the accident, take note of details such as:

• registration number
• car model
• contact details of the other driver
• road signs/lines
• traffic conditions
• speed zone
• any visible damage to you and the third parties vehicle
• time of the day
• weather conditions
• witness contact details 
• direction of travel

Again, if possible, you should also take photographs of any damage and skid marks on the road. 

5. Inform your Car Insurance Company

Ring your insurance company as soon as you can to inform them of the incident, even if you are not at fault. By informing your insurance company early, you will be able to provide accurate information regarding the accident while you have a clear memory of the accident. Claims can be made years after an accident has occurred so it is better to have your details on record as early as possible. KennCo’s claim number is 014092600. 

 

6. What if I Don’t Make a Claim?

If you are not planning on claiming on your insurance you should still inform your insurance company as soon as possible. The other vehicle(s) or passengers of the other vehicle(s) may still make a claim on your insurance without you knowing. There are two instances where you may choose not to claim. The first is if you decide to pay for the damage for the repairs yourself. The second instance is if you want to keep your no claims bonus intact if you do not have ‘no claims bonus protection’ on your policy.

How prepared are you to handle a car accident?

Car Accident FAQs

Do I need to report a car accident to the Garda if there are no injuries or significant damage?

In Ireland, you must report all accidents to the Garda if they result in injury, death, or significant damage to property. If the accident involves only minor damage and no injuries. In that case, you are not required to report it to the Garda. However, you should still exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident and consider contacting your insurance company.

What should I do if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

If the other driver doesn’t have insurance, you should still follow the steps outlined above to report the accident to the Garda and exchange information with the other driver. You may also consider contacting your insurance company to report the accident and see if you are covered for damages. In Ireland, it is illegal to drive without insurance, so the other driver could face legal consequences for driving without insurance.

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Buying an electric car in Ireland is becoming increasingly popular as people actively try to reduce their carbon footprint. In 2021 the sales of electric vehicles doubled to the previous year, according to new data from the Society of Irish Motor Industry (SIMI). The rise in sales is a positive for car manufacturers looking to switch to electric vehicles in the coming years.

Buying an electric car may be new for drivers, and they may be unsure of what to look for and what not to look for in an electric car. So, if you’re looking to make the switch today, you should be fully informed before making any purchase. That’s why we have answered some popular questions about electric cars.

Should I Buy a New or Second-Hand Electric Car?

Nowadays, there are numerous electric car choices, from the Audi e-Tron to the Tesla Model 3. There are brilliant options out there for every driver.

Electric cars have been around for a while, and there are good choices for buyers looking to get second-hand electric cars. As with buying any second-hand car, you have to be aware of the car’s history. You should carefully check the car’s battery and warranty before purchasing. If there are any issues with the car battery, it could be a problem for you, and a new battery could be expensive, especially if you’re out of warranty. You should have a mechanic look over the car to see everything working.

Will I Save Money Switching to an Electric Car?

Although electric cars are more expensive, they are much cheaper to run than petrol or diesel cars. There is less wear and tear on electric cars as there are fewer moving parts. While you are saving money on fuel costs, you will see an increase in your electricity bill, but it still costs much less than fuel.

The government scheme provides a grant of up to €600 towards purchasing and installing a home charger unit. Grants are also available for installing a home charger unit for Irish electric vehicle owners. You can find more details on the SEAI website.

Your motor tax bill will also be significantly reduced, as, in Ireland, the road tax is calculated by the emissions level of your vehicle. An electric vehicle falls into the lowest motor tax bracket, just €120 a year.

Are There Grants Available For Electric Cars?

Ireland has incentivised drivers to shift towards electric vehicles by offering grants and toll incentives. A maximum grant of €5,000 is available for new electric vehicles when purchased privately. The vehicles must cost over €14,000 to receive the grant, and the EV must be on their approved list. For more details on the grant, read more.

Should I Buy an Electric Car or a Hybrid?

Many people may consider the step from a petrol or diesel car to an electric one a big move. Many drivers purchase a hybrid model as a stepping stone to buying an electric car. This can make the transition a little easier.

If you go for a hybrid model, you will still need a home charger, so you should find a suitable area to install one. Hybrid models will not require as much power, but they will still need to take some fuel.

What Electric Car Should I Buy?

You should consider many factors for choosing the right electric car for you. You should think about what features you need to have in the car. Do you want an electric car with lots of new technology, or do you not mind? It will cost more for extra features, but it’s up to your preference.

What are you using your car for? Will it be for short commutes or long commutes? If you’re not travelling much, you could purchase the Nissan Leaf, which has a range of 149 miles, whereas the Tesla Model S Plaid edition can go a whopping 400 miles.

Have a Recharge Plan

You should know how you will charge your electric vehicle before purchasing one. Are you installing a home charger or not? We recommend installing a home charger as it makes the process easier for you and your commutes. Are there public charging stations nearby if you don’t plan to install a home charger? For example, you will need to know where it is and where there are charging stations near your work. If they’re busy, you will need to think of backup stations. We recommend installing a home charger so you’re fully charged before every commute.

What is your biggest barrier to buying an electric car in Ireland?

Bottom Line

Swapping a petrol or diesel car to an electric car can be daunting for first-time buyers with all the factors you need to consider. You should not be intimidated by the switch but be excited.

Of course, not everyone will want to buy an electric car, but there are lots of great benefits that come with owning an electric car. The industry has come a long way, and more electric models are available.

Popular Electric Cars in Ireland

Hyundai Kona Electric: This electric SUV has a range of up to 484 km on a single charge and is equipped with fast charging capabilities.

Renault Zoe: The Renault Zoe is a small electric hatchback with a range of up to 395 km on a single charge. It is also available with fast charging capabilities.

Nissan Leaf: The Nissan Leaf is a compact electric hatchback with a range of up to 385 km on a single charge. It is also available with fast charging capabilities.

Volkswagen e-Golf: The Volkswagen e-Golf is a compact electric hatchback with a range of up to 201 km on a single charge.

Kia e-Niro: The Kia e-Niro is an electric SUV with a range of up to 455 km on a single charge. It is also available with fast charging capabilities.

 

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Buying your first car can be expensive, especially when you’re young, and it is a significant moment in your life.

You put in all the hard work with lessons and your test, and it’s time to have your own car and more independence.

It is an exciting time for first-time buyers, and you may want to rush to buy a car. We outline several factors and stores you should consider to save money along the process. 

Save Up

You will have to pay interest on any car loan repayments when purchasing a car. We recommend that you save money before buying to put more money on a down payment so you’re not borrowing as much. It will save you much more money in the long run. 

Budget 

Before shopping around, most buyers will have a set budget in their heads that they can afford. It would help to consider what you could afford and the different loan options available. You don’t want to overborrow as there are still other car costs, such as insurance, running costs and maintenance. You also have to consider other bills, such as your rent, and factor all these things into your budget. 

Car/Engine Size

If you’re buying your first car, you are probably either a learner driver or a young driver with little experience. For this reason, you are better off purchasing a vehicle with a smaller engine size.

You will also need to consider what occasions you will use the car. Are you using it for long daily commutes or for driving locally?

These factors will all impact your decision on what engine size to decide on. 

New or Used Car

You also need to consider if you are going to purchase a new car or a used car. New vehicles depreciate their value by almost 11% the second they leave the dealership. The car will, of course, depreciate its value year on year, so it will be worth a lot less a few years later.

If you decide to purchase a used car, then that vehicle has already depreciated, so you’re not necessarily losing much money on the vehicle.

You will save a lot of money buying a car a few years earlier than purchasing a new one. Especially for your first car, it may be challenging to fund purchasing a new car from a dealership. 

Look Around For a Car 

It’s time to shop for your car now that you have decided the budget and the type of car you’re looking at. You can view cars from any dealership near you or look at websites that sell new or used cars.

 

We would always recommend getting some advice or an experienced driver as they will have experience in driving and purchasing cars and can help you spot any issues. When buying a car, you should look out for the following:

• What is the mileage
• The car has a valid NCT
• The car has been serviced
• Any damage on the car
• The car is fit to drive
• If the air-con, radio, locks and other elements of the car are working
• Has the car had many previous owners
• Has the car ever been in a crash
• Is this the cars original paintwork

Buy From a Dealer

We recommend purchasing your car from a dealer rather than a private seller. It is a much safer option. There are many reasons to buy from a dealership which include:

• More reliability when purchasing from a dealership
• They are more responsible sellers
• They offer a guarantee when you purchase a vehicle
• They will handle all paperwork, such as change of ownership
• They provide more legal protection 
• They usually provide a valid NCT, new tyres or other benefits when you purchase with them.

Test Drive

Before you purchase a car, it’s essential to test drive it. Before you set off in the car, ensure you’re insured to drive it.

You should give it a good test drive on some back roads rather than just driving it up and down the road. How does it feel to drive?

Are the gear changes smooth? Test the brakes. Drive at speed to see how it handles on a motorway.

Are there any noises when driving the car? When you come back from the test drive, ask the salesperson if you have any questions or worries. You don’t want to purchase the car and immediately have to fix an issue. 

Car Expenses

Based on the car you want to purchase, you can estimate your monthly spending on the vehicle.

This will help you decide if it’s in your budget or not. To calculate this, you should look at the following:

• Motor Tax
• Petrol/ Diesel cost
• Maintenance
• Insurance

Financing options

Most people will not have the money upfront to purchase the car. You will need a loan to pay for the car, and you should shop for the best loan payments. Most people will call their local Credit Union to get a car loan, as they offer very competitive interest rates. 

Some garages may even offer you finance as part of the package, but you will likely end up paying more than you would with your local bank or credit union.

This is why it’s always a good idea to keep savings in your credit union. If they see that you save and have the money, you will have no problem acquiring the loan you require.

Car Insurance

Driving in Ireland is a legal requirement to have car insurance. You should already have a general quote for the car you have been looking at to see if you can afford it. You can get a car insurance quote online at our website here if you are purchasing your first car. 

What was the most important factor when you bought your first car?

Learn To Maintain Your New Car

Now that you have purchased your new car and have insurance, it’s time to keep it in good condition. It would help if you learned the following:

• How to change a tyre
• How to check the oil
• How to check coolant levels
• How to check your tyre pressure

What Are Some Good First Cars For New Drivers?

The following cars are perfect for new drivers as they are cheap, safe and easy to drive. The list below are some great cars:

• VW up!
• Kia Picanto
• Ford Fiesta
• Seat Ibiza
• Hyundai i10
• Volkswagen Polo
• Opel Corsa

To get a quote for your new car online, visit our car insurance page here. 

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If your car unexpectedly breaks down, you must have the appropriate equipment to get your car back on the road as safely and quickly as possible. Many auto stores around Ireland now sell compact emergency car kits. But if you want to ensure that you’re fully covered in a breakdown or accident, it might be worth putting together your own kit.  Here’s a list of items you can include in your emergency car kit.

First Aid Kit

Depending on your car model, your car may come with a first aid kit already included. It is usually found in the back of the car, under the passenger seat or in the glove compartment. If not, purchasing one to store in your car is a good idea. Having a first aid kit isn’t just convenient in the event of an accident; it’s also helpful to have it for non-car related accidents or cuts when you’re away from home.  

Jump Leads 

If you forget to turn off your lights or leave another power source running, you may find that your car won’t start. Using jump leads, you can recharge your battery using another car and get back on the road in minutes. Don’t forget that if your battery is completely flat, you should leave your car running for about 45 minutes to recharge your battery fully. 

Torch

Always keep a torch in your car. They don’t take up much space but may come in handy if your car breaks down at night. Whether you need to inspect the damage, or a flat tyre or make yourself more visible in the darkness, a torch is a must-have. 

Portable Phone Charger

If your car breaks down, the last thing you need is for your phone battery to die too. Keep a portable phone charger in your car so that you can call for breakdown assistance or help no matter where you are. 

Hi-Vis Vest

If your car breaks down or you’re involved in an accident, you must have a hi-vis vest available if you need to stand on the roadside or outside your car. Wearing a hi-vis vest increases your visibility to other drivers and gives them additional warning that there is a hazard ahead. 

Car Warning Triangle 

In many European countries, it is required by law to carry a warning triangle in your car at all times. Warning triangles are used when your car breaks down and should be placed approximately 200 metres before a road hazard to give other drivers enough time to slow down.

If you’ve got a car on the road, why not call KennCo  for a car insurance quote today on 01 409 2600. If your car breaks down, follow these tips. 

Do you have an emergency kit in your car?

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Insurance fraud costs the industry in Ireland over €200 million every year. It doesn’t just have an impact on insurance companies; it also results in car insurance increases for drivers too. 

What is Insurance Fraud? 

Insurance fraud presents itself in many different forms. Whether it’s exaggerating injuries to receive higher compensation or providing inaccurate information to receive a cheaper premium, they are all considered as fraud and may result in a prosecution. The number of fraudulent car insurance claims has increased in recent years which have been a contributing factor to the rising cost of insurance in Ireland. 

Types of Car Insurance Fraud

Non-Disclosure

Non-disclosure is where an applicant either purposely or accidentally omits details about their car or their driving history. This may range from something small such as where you park your car at night to failing to disclose that you were involved in a car accident. 

By not disclosing details about your driving history it may bring down the cost of your car insurance premium, but in the event of a claim, your insurance policy may become invalid and you may also be liable to prosecution. 

Fronting

Fronting is pretending that someone else is the main driver of a car in order to bring down the car insurance premium. 

Car insurance can be expensive for new drivers who haven’t built up a no claims bonus or who have never had a policy in their own name before. In many instances, adding a named driver to a policy can bring down the cost of car insurance.

However it is illegal to name someone else as the main driver on a policy where you will be driving for the majority of the time. Drivers are often unaware that this is fronting and that it is illegal. In many instances, parents buy a car insurance policy in their own name, and add their child as a named driver. However, if their child drives the car more frequently than their parents, they need to have a policy in their own name. 

Insurance companies are usually made aware of the situation when the named driver is involved in a collision and they investigate the situation further. This can lead to claims not being paid out or a prosecution for the driver for driving without insurance. 

False Injury Claims

In recent years the number of fraudulent claims has increased. This has had a knock-on effect on the cost of insurance in Ireland. This has especially been the case with injury claims where claimants either make up or exaggerate their injuries in order to receive more compensation. 

Whiplash claims are 5 times higher in Ireland than in the UK and have become a major problem for the insurance industry. This is due to the difficulty in disclaiming dishonest claims and the high payout amounts for such injuries. 

Staged Accidents

This involves claiming for an accident that never actually happened or was staged in order to receive compensation. This is usually done by moving a car that has already been damaged to a fake crash site. The insurer then pays the bill for the repairing costs. 

Car Insurance Fraud FAQs

What is car insurance fraud in Ireland?

Car insurance fraud in Ireland is any attempt to deceive an insurance company into receiving a benefit or payment that is not rightfully due. This can include providing false information on an insurance application, staging an accident or theft, or exaggerating the extent of damages or injuries to receive a larger payout.

How common is car insurance fraud in Ireland?

It is difficult to accurately determine the prevalence of car insurance fraud in Ireland, as many instances may go undetected. However, it is a problem that affects the insurance industry globally, and insurance companies in Ireland take steps to prevent and detect fraudulent activity.

What are the consequences of car insurance fraud in Ireland?

Committing car insurance fraud in Ireland is a criminal offence and can result in fines, imprisonment, and a criminal record. In addition, if an individual is found to have committed insurance fraud, their insurance policy may be voided, and they may have difficulty obtaining coverage in the future.

How can I protect myself from car insurance fraud in Ireland?

There are several steps you can take to protect yourself from car insurance fraud in Ireland:

• Only do business with reputable insurance companies and brokers
• Make sure to accurately and fully disclose all relevant information on your insurance application.
• Do not exaggerate the extent of damages or injuries in the event of an accident.

If you’re aware of any insurance fraud, please report it to insurance confidential on 1890 333 333. 

How concerned are you about insurance fraud?

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Breakdowns are a nuisance for every driver, but there’s no escaping them. No matter how new or well-maintained the car is, it can break down.

If your car doesn’t start or breaks down on the side of the road, you should ring your insurer, as most will have a breakdown assistance team to assist you back on the road.

If you’re with KennCo Insurance, then breakdown assistance comes with all of our car insurance policies.

What Does KennCo’s Breakdown Assistance Include?

• 24-Hour Roadside Assistance
• Recovery Service
• Get-you-to-your-destination Service
• Message Relay
• Home-Start

Who Should I Call if I Breakdown?

24-Hour Breakdown Assistance Number: 01 499 8316

What Details Do I Need?

Please have the following information at hand before you call:

• Policyholders’ name
• Policy number and car registration number
• Make, model and colour of your car
• Location of breakdown
• Contact phone number

Your breakdown assistance only covers repair work from one of our approved agencies. You must call KennCo so they can arrange for your vehicle to be fixed.

What Should I Do If I Breakdown?

• If you can, pull off the road and park in a safe place
• Turn on your hazard warning lights
• Put a warning triangle on the road 45m behind your broken-down vehicle
• Lock the doors and call for help on either your phone or a nearby payphone

Breakdown Advice

The following is advice if you have broken down in any of these areas.

Remote Area Breakdown

It may be scary and lonely if you break down in a remote area away from people, and it is a lot safer than you think.

You should do this:

• Call your insurance provider to send help to your location
• Call a friend/family member who can come and wait with you
• Stay in the car and wait for the breakdown assistance. Lock the doors if it makes you feel safer
• Switch on hazard lights

City Area Breakdown

When you break down in a city, it can be stressful. You may be obstructing other drivers or delaying road users.

You should do this:

Get your car into a safe spot away from others

• If causing an obstruction, put on your hazard lights
• Call your insurance provider for help
• Call a family member/friend and let them know where you are
• Show others you have broken down by opening the bonnet. Otherwise, people may think you’ve stopped for a call

Motorway Breakdown

Busy roads are the most dangerous to be stranded, so you must try to follow these steps.

You should do this:

• Pull onto the hard shoulder
• Turn your front wheels towards the hard shoulder
• Stop near an emergency phone if possible
• Get out on the passenger side of the car
• Keep passengers or pets away from the motorway
• Walk to an emergency phone if you can. These phone calls are directed to the police, who can find where you are. It is advised to use these over the phone if you can
• Place a warning triangle 45m behind your broken-down car
• Wait outside the car behind a barer if there is one there

Have you ever experienced a car breakdown?

Car Breakdown FAQs

What should I do if my car breaks down on the road?
If your car breaks down on the road, the first thing you should do is move your car off the road, if possible, to a safe location. If you cannot move your car, turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.

Can I leave my car if it breaks down?
It is generally not a good idea to leave your car if it breaks down, especially if it is on the side of a busy road. If you must leave your car, lock it and take any valuable items. If you cannot safely leave your car, it is best to stay with it until help arrives.

What should I do if I break down in a remote area?
If you break down in a remote area, try to remain calm and assess the situation. If you have a phone with you, try to call for help. If you do not have phone service, try to find a way to attract attention, such as using reflective materials or a flashlight to signal for help. If you are unable to get help, it may be necessary to try to walk to a nearby location for assistance.

What should I do if my car breaks down and I am stranded in bad weather?
If your car breaks down and you are stranded in bad weather, try to stay with your car if possible. Run the engine and heater for short periods of time to stay warm, but be sure to crack a window to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. If you have a blanket or other warm materials, use them to keep yourself warm. If you must leave your car, dress in layers and seek shelter from the elements.

Get a car insurance quote here.

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First Cars in Ireland

Until 1898, there were no cars in Ireland. The first car imported into Ireland was a Benz Velo which arrived in 1898. Cars were costly, and in 1904, only 38 motor vehicles were registered. This had risen to 5,058 by 1911 and 19,554 in 1914. This also increased the number of petrol dealers in the country, which doubled between 1901-1914.

In 1917 Henry Ford established Henry Ford & Son Ltd. It began as a private venture and later became a division of the Ford Motor Company. Ford had over 7000 employees in Cork by 1930 and continued manufacturing vehicles in Cork until 1984.

The introduction of the Motor Car to Irish roads led to an increase in the number of fatalities. In 1914 there were 110 fatalities on our roads. 47 by Horse-drawn vehicles, 53 by motor vehicles and 8 involved bicycles.

Motor Legislation

In 1903, legislation made it compulsory for car drivers to hold a licence. Owners also had to register their cars with the country council. The Motor Car Act of 1903 (UK legislation which would have been operative in Ireland) also introduced the crime of reckless driving and imposed penalties. The qualifying age to drive a motor car was 17, and 14 to drive a motorcycle. A driver didn’t have to do a test, but they had to buy a license from the county council for 5 shillings.

On public highways, speed limits were raised to 20mph. Previously they had been 14 mph under the Locomotives and Highways Act of 1896. Up to this point, there was still no requirement to have an Insurance Policy on your motor car or motorcycle. It was not until 1933 that the state introduced legislation which stated that vehicles had to have some form of Insurance in place. The 1933 Act required that all drivers of mechanically propelled vehicles in public places to at least have third-party Insurance or to have obtained an exemption (by depositing a large sum of money with the High Court as a guarantee against any possible claims). The then Minister for local government and health, Sean T O’Kelly, introduced The Road Traffic Act of 1933.

Road Structure

With all of the extra vehicles, there was also a need to improve the road infrastructure and the quality. Up to the early 1900s, most roads were built to facilitate horse-drawn carriages and mail coaches. In 1831. The Board of Public Works was set up to build roads and bridges. A road board was established in 1909 to improve roads. A motor fuel tax and a licence duty on cars initially funded this. The money raised from this duty paid for improvements to road surfaces.

According to data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO), in 2021, there were 1,881,700 motor vehicles licensed in Ireland. Of these, 1,739,300 were private cars, 76,400 were goods vehicles, and 66,000 were buses. Thanks to EU funding, our road network includes more than 1100km of motorways and 5300km of National Primary Roads. The following link gives the CSO statistics of vehicles registered by county in both 1915 and 2014. www.cso.ie

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What type of car do you currently drive?

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Thieves have gotten very smart in recent years, with smart keys becoming a big problem for many drivers. Thieves are using these smart keys to steal vehicles, then switching out the license plates to avoid theft detection. So how do you keep your car safe from theft? You should be taking preventive measures to secure your car. Here are some tips on how to keep your car safe.

1. Always Lock Your Doors

Get in the habit of checking if your car doors are locked before leaving your car. This may sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people forget to lock their car doors when we’re in a rush, i.e. to get to work. This is what a thief wants. You should always ensure that all windows are up as well, as this will provide even more opportunities for thieves.

2. Remove Your Keys

If you’re leaving your car at all, never leave your keys in the ignition. Often we see cars with no driver in them, and the engine is running. In this situation, thieves don’t have to go through too much trouble to steal the vehicle. Even if they don’t steal it in that moment, if a thief notices your car is lying idle, they may mark it for future theft.

3. Park in a Safe Spot 

It may be convenient when you’re in a rush to park your car in any available location, however it is always important to think about where you leave your car, so it’s not in a vulnerable spot. The following are a few tips to avoid parking in dangerous areas:

• Don’t park in dark car parks or in spots near trees. You should look for well-lit spaces where thieves are less likely to rob your car and belongings due to having nowhere to hide. If you have to park in these dangerous areas, make sure that there’s CCTV in the area.
• If you’re parking your car in your own driveway, you should park facing the wall or garage and put your wheels on full lock. Thieves are after easy targets, so often they won’t take the risk reversing or making complex maneuvers for fear of being caught.

4. Don’t Leave Your Belongings On Display

The worst thing you can do is leave your valued belongings on display in your vehicle. Wallets, phones, and money can all attract thieves. If you must leave belongings in your vehicle, then store them in a safe location such as your glove box or in a boot. 

You should also not leave any paperwork lying around in your vehicle. If you’re vehicle gets stolen, thieves can use bank statements and important documents to possibly steal your identity. Identity theft is a massive issue. Try not to leave secure documents in your vehicle, but store them somewhere safe if you have to.  

5. Improve Your Security

Most modern cars are fitted with alarms and immobilisers, but you should take extra steps to keep your car secure. There are plenty of options to choose from, which include:

• Tracking devices. New high-end cars such as Mercedes already have anti-theft software installed, but if you’re driving an older car, you might consider investing in a tracking device. If your vehicle is stolen, the Gardaí will be able to see its exact location and hopefully recover your car in one piece.  
• Steering wheel locks. The more challenging you make it for thieves to steal your vehicle, the more the risk of having your vehicle stolen decreases. These locks are fitted over your steering wheel and lock it in place. You can also see from the outside that the steering wheel has been locked, which hopefully will be a deterrent for potential thieves. 
• Window Decals. Another possible protective measure to take is applying warning stickers to your window. It will let people know you have a tracker or alarm fitted on the car. When thieves see this, they will hopefully be put off and retreat from their robbery. These decals will hopefully make thieves think twice about if your vehicle is worth the risks to steal.

Keep Your Keys Secure

After parking your car in a safe location, you should store your keys in a secure place in the house. Do not leave them near your front door, as thieves could look through the letterbox and spot them. You should also keep them away from the back door as they may also see them there. You should have a specific place in a cupboard or your room where you keep them.

What is your primary method for preventing car theft?

What To Do If Your Car is Stolen

If you are in the unfortunate situation where your vehicle has been stolen or robbed, you should take immediate action. You should ring the Gardaí as soon as you notice the car is missing or has been tampered with. You should have the following information on hand to give to them:

• Color, make and model of the car
• License plate number
• Contact details
• Address of theft
• Photograph if your car if you have one
• Logbook and VIN number

It may also be helpful to take a photo of where your car was parked to show your insurer and the Gardaí.

Tracking Your Car 

As we said earlier, many newer cars are fitted with very sophisticated tracking devices used by the Gardaí to find stolen vehicles and retrieve them. If your car has one fitted, you should give the Gardaí your tracking information so they can start investigating the crime as soon as possible. Time is key for stolen cars, so the sooner you contact the Gardaí, the better their chances are of finding your vehicle. 

For extra peace of mind and security, contact KennCo today for a secure, quick car insurance quote. 

 

A.

The big day is nearly here. You studied and passed the theory test, and your attention then turned to the driving test. You have completed your driving lessons, studied the rules of the road and practised as much as you can on the road. You will naturally feel nervous and anxious about your driving test, but this is normal. You can do a few things to prepare for your driving test, and we’ve created a list to help you. Read over our tips before your driving test, and get ready to pass your Irish driving test. 

1. Complete All of Your Driving Lessons

Before applying to do a driving test in Ireland, you are legally required to complete 12 essential driver training lessons with an EDT-approved driving instructor. You don’t have to stop at 12. This is only the required number of lessons. If you feel you need a few more lessons to build your confidence, then you should do so. You will become more comfortable driving with an instructor, which gives you a feel for what it will be like on the day of the driving test. 

2. Learn the Rules of the Road

There are theory questions which you will be asked, such as rules of the road and road signs. You should aim to get all these correct, so you start confidently before stepping foot in the car. It is based on information from the RSA’s Rules of the Road guidebook. Read over it and become familiar with each section. It will also help you with decisions on the road.

3. Do Some Pre-Tests

Aim to take at least one or two pre-tests. They give you a good indication of what to expect in the test and should help remove some of your worries. Completing a pre-test will also help highlight any bad habits you have before the test so that you can work on them before you step in the car with a real inspector.  

4. Have All Your Documents

Ensure you have all the correct documentation and that your car is ready a few days before your test. You don’t want to panic last minute looking for something. The documentation you will need is:

• A valid learner permit
• Valid original insurance disc 
• An in-date motor tax disc
• Valid NCT Disc
• L plates on both front and rear

Along with all the documentation, your car should be in good working order, so there are no engine lights or damage to the vehicle. You must also be accompanied by a fully licensed driver before and after the test, even if you pass.

What aspect of the Irish driving test did you find most challenging?

5. Practice the Bonnet Check

Before you start driving and once the weather is dry, you will be tested on an under the bonnet check. This is a show or tell section. You don’t touch any part of the car. You will be asked to locate specific parts and asked some technical questions.

You should read your car manual to see where the following items are located because they will differ from car to car. Your driving instructor may also help you with this. In your last lesson, ask them to go through a bonnet check with you. You may be asked to locate the following:

• Engine Coolant Reservoir
• Engine Oil Level
• Brake Fluid Reservoir
• Windscreen Washer Fluid Level

Along with the location, you could be asked how to check each level. It may be a visual check, or you may have to use a dipstick to see if the level is between minimum and maximum, such is the case with the engine oil level. You don’t have to perform it. You simply explain the process.

6. Arrive Early at the Test Centre

You should arrive at the test centre early, so you are not under pressure or worrying about times. You should wear comfortable clothing and proper shoes. Flip-flops will not do and may result in failure. We recommend driving around the area before your test to eliminate any nerves. If you can do a pre-test before, do so, and you’ll be fully prepared for the driving test. 

7. Be Observant

Driving inspectors will want you to be observant, so constantly looking around you and using your three mirrors.

Be prepared for sudden movements from other drivers, and be aware of your surroundings.

Ensure you don’t miss a stop sign, red light, etc. Match your driving to suit the conditions such as weather, road and traffic. 

 

 

8. Keep Your Distance 

It is recommended to keep your distance from the car in front of you. You should leave at least 2 seconds between you. Keep up with traffic and don’t leave too big a gap. You must be seen to make progress on the road, so do not hold cars up by leaving too much space. 

9. Be Careful with Your Driving Style

Be extra careful with your driving style during the driving test. Do not coast on the clutch inspectors do not like seeing it. Excessive coasting can cause you to fail the test as it can be hazardous. Do not rest your hand on the gear stick. It’s a bad habit that your inspector will mark you on. 

10. Don’t Worry if You Make a Mistake

Mistakes are normal during a driving test. Nobody is perfect, and with nerves may come small mistakes. Don’t be hard on yourself. They are typically not as bad as you think. You should keep driving with confidence for the rest of the driving test. 

If you fail the driving test, it’s not the end of the world. You may re-sit in a few weeks, and you will know what to expect the next time. You may not have as many nerves the second time too. Just take the mistakes you made on board and see how you can rectify them for your next test. 

If you pass your test, switch to KennCo Insurance for a great car quote. Get an online quote in a matter of minutes.