As with many other areas of personal finance the cost of the average person's car insurance policy is likely to rise in 2008. This will affect young drivers, experienced drivers and everybody in between.

If you'd like to know how to beat car insurance cost hikes in 2008 then read on. The tips are not bind-blowing, amazing outside the box moments of genius but simply common sense tactics that when combined and applied can significantly reduce the cost of your car insurance policy.

The first step is to stop the rot. If you currently have car insurance from a UK insurer it is likely your renewal will include a price hike in 2008. Do not stand for this; if you feel the rise is unjustified then tell them. If you threaten to cancel your policy you'll be surprised how quickly that increase is replaced by a reduction in a desperate attempt to keep you on their books.

If you are unhappy with your current car insurance provider do not feel obliged to stay with them. There is an excellent chance you can find a better deal elsewhere if you only looked.

Price comparison websites are an excellent tool to use. These free services help you to compare UK car insurance quotes quickly and easily. In just a few minutes you can look at hundreds of quotes and pick which one is the best.

Before you switch your motor insurance to another provider look at other ways you can lower your quote. Limiting your mileage will help, after all the less you are on the roads the less you are likely to have an accident. Could you clear out that garage and park more securely inside? If so that should lead to another saving.

Finally make sure you protect your no claims bonus and see if increasing your voluntary excess can yield a worthwhile reduction in your car insurance quote.

On their own none of these ideas sound like much but combining them before shopping around with price comparison sites can lead to a huge overall saving on your policy.