Black Box Technology vs Traditional Car Insurance
A comparison for learner, new and inexperienced drivers
Key points:
- Black box insurance also known as telematics monitors your driving habits like speed and braking
- Traditional insurance relies on general risk factors and is based on things like age and claims history
- Black box insurance is ideal for new / learner drivers and can help you build a good driving record
- Aviva telematics makes it easy to get started with black box insurance
Car insurance has come a long way in Ireland and so have the options available to drivers; especially those just starting out. One of the biggest changes? The rise of smart tech. Black box insurance, also known as telematics insurance, is becoming more popular as a way to personalise premiums based on how you drive. So, how does black box car insurance compare to traditional car insurance - and which one’s right for you? Let's explore.
What is black box insurance?
Black box insurance works using telematics technology. A clever system that records how you drive in real time. A small device, often called a "black box", is professionally fitted inside your car, simply plugged into a port, or even run through an app on your phone.
Once it’s up and running, the telematics device collects lots of useful information every time you get behind the wheel including:
- What roads you are traveling on and how fast you’re going
- How smoothly you brake and take corners
- What time of day you drive
- How far you travel.
This data is securely sent to your insurer to create a personalised picture of your driving habits. The better you drive, the better your driving score.
Main data collected:
- Speed and acceleration
- Braking and cornering
- Time of day you drive
- Mileage and journey length
How traditional car insurance works
Traditional insurance doesn’t use live driving data, instead it relies on a range of factors that insurers consider important when assessing risk. These can include:
- Age
- Driving experience
- Vehicle type
- Claims history
- Where you live
- Vehicle usage
This method has been the standard for many years and provides a broad overview of risk, but it doesn’t reflect the unique way you drive on the road every day. That’s where black box insurance offers a more personalised approach.
What are the key differences between black box and Traditional Car Insurance?
| Feature | Black Box Insurance | Traditional Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Driver Suitability | Ideal for new, young, first-time, inexperienced and learner drivers | Suitable for more experienced drivers |
| Rewards | Safe driving can reduce premiums (over time) | Penalty points and No claims discounts |
| Privacy Concerns | Tracks the cars location and monitors driving behaviours | No tracking involved |
What are the main types of black box car technology in Ireland?
When it comes to black box insurance in Ireland, there are different ways the technology can be set up to monitor your driving. Each type has its own features and benefits, designed to suit different drivers and preferences. Whether you prefer something professionally installed or an easy-to-use app, there’s an option that fits your needs. Here’s a quick overview of the main types you’ll find in Ireland:
Hardwired black box
- Installed directly into your car by a professional
- Often hidden out of sight
- Tracks driving (and location) while the car is in use, no matter who Is driving the car
- Most accurate data collection
Plug-in device
- Plugs into a port inside your car (usually the on-board diagnostics OBD port)
- Easy to install yourself
- Can be unplugged, so may not collect full data
Smartphone app-based telematics
- Uses your mobile phone’s GPS and motion sensors
- No device installation needed
- Easy to start using immediately
- May rely on you remembering to open the app
Is black box insurance right for you?
If you’re weighing up your options as a new or inexperienced driver, black box insurance could be worth a closer look. It’s especially useful if you’re just starting out and want to prove you’re a safe driver.
Black box insurance is particularly beneficial if you:
- Are a learner or newly qualified driver
- Want to build up a good driving record
- Are keen to save money on your premium over time
What is Aviva’s approach to black box car insurance / telematics?
Aviva’s black box insurance uses a discreet device that fits to your car’s battery and monitors your driving behaviours. It looks at how you accelerate, brake, and handle corners to build your personal driving score.
After you’ve bought your policy, we’ll email you to arrange installation at a time and place that suits you. Once it’s in, the device starts tracking your journeys, and you can view your driving information / data at any time in your MyAviva account. A driving score is awarded based on how safely you drive.
FAQs
Is black box insurance only for inexperienced or learner drivers in Ireland?
No. While it is popular with first-time drivers, black box insurance may also suit new full licence holders looking to prove they are a safe driver and start their driving journey by taking out an insurance in their own name.
Does choosing black box insurance limit which cars I can drive?
There may be restrictions based on engine size or car type especially for provisional licence holders. It is best to check eligibility when getting a quote.
I don't drive much, is it still worth getting black box insurance?
It can be, because it is based on how and when you drive not just how often. Occasional but safe driving could still help you build a strong driving score.
Can I switch from black box car insurance to standard insurance later on?
Yes. When your renewal comes around you can choose the policy type that suits you best - whether that is sticking with black box or moving to a more standard car insurance option.
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