Cost of car insurance for young women soars as EU rules come into force
Premiums have risen more than 16 per cent thanks to new EU rules

Premiums have risen more than 16 per cent thanks to new EU rules
Car insurance premiums for young women in the UK have risen by 16.4 per cent in the final quarter of 2012 after new EU rules on banning setting prices based on gender came into force.
On average, women aged between 17 and 20 paid £2,081 for their premiums if they insured themselves as the only driver.
Married females of the same age only saw a quarterly rise of 4.8 per cent, with an average premium of £2,089 for two insured drivers on a car.
Yet quoted prices for men aged between 17 and 20 saw an average fall of 10.7 per cent over the same period.
Gareth Kloet, head of car insurance at Confused.com, said: 'With the EU gender directive taking effect from December 21, 2012, it's clear to see that the insurance industry has both reacted and prepared for the well documented and anticipated change in legislation during the last quarter.
'As expected, our index shows that women have seen the greatest changes in their insurance premium as insurers prepared for the change in legislation with what is effectively a gender tax on their car insurance premiums.
Marie Claire Newsletter
Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!
'We encourage everyone to shop around in order to get the best deals and if you are married, consider car sharing with your partner to benefit from cheaper car insurance premiums.'
The new EU Gender Directive came into force on December 21 last year. The ruling by the European Court of Justice was passed following a 10-year legal battle against the proposals by insurance firms.
The leading destination for fashion, beauty, shopping and finger-on-the-pulse views on the latest issues. Marie Claire's travel content helps you delight in discovering new destinations around the globe, offering a unique – and sometimes unchartered – travel experience. From new hotel openings to the destinations tipped to take over our travel calendars, this iconic name has it covered.
-
Watercolour Blush Is The Dreamy Trend That Has Me Channelling My Inner Romantic This Summer
A wash of colour
-
This cult, royal-approved brand has been making the best body care for 100 years—now, their foray into skincare has my seal of approval
Perfect for a (speedy) self-care moment
-
Linen Co-Ords Are the Only Thing the Fashion Set Are Wearing This Summer—These Are the 14 Chicest Pairs
Warm weather dressing made simple