Policy Expert vs RIAS
Comprehensive comparison of Policy Expert and RIAS car insurance. Our expert analysis examines pricing, coverage, customer service, and claims handling to help you choose the right provider for your needs.
Key Comparison Insights
Overall Recommendation
Choose Policy Expert for budget-friendly first policies. Go with RIAS for feature-rich, senior-optimized cover and trusted claims service.
Pricing Analysis
Policy Expert often undercuts RIAS by 10–15% for drivers under 50. However, RIAS is highly competitive for over-50s and retirees, offering senior-frie...
UK Market Context
UK average car insurance premium is £694(Association of British Insurers). See how Policy Expert and RIAScompare to this benchmark in our detailed analysis below.
Company Information Comparison
| Feature | Policy Expert | RIAS |
|---|---|---|
| Established | 2001 | 1988 |
| Underwriter | U K Insurance Limited | U K Insurance Limited |
| Market Position | Mid-range | Mid-range |
| Customer Service Hours | Mon–Fri: 9am–5pm | Mon–Fri: 9am–5pm |
| Claims Satisfaction | 3.9 | 3.8 |
| Financial Strength | A | A– |
| Mobile App Rating | 3.7 | 3.7 |
Policy Features Comparison
| Feature | Policy Expert | RIAS |
|---|---|---|
No Claims Discount Years protected | Up to 2 years | Up to 3 years |
Telematics Option | ||
| Multi-Car Discount | ||
New for Old Replacement Vehicle age limit | Up to 1 year | Up to 1 year |
Uninsured Driver Promise | ||
| Paperless Discount |
Starting Premium
£250.00
Policy Expert
£200.00
RIAS
Maximum Cover
£5,000,000
Policy Expert
£5,000,000
RIAS
Total Policies
3
Policy Expert
3
RIAS
Comprehensive Cover
Full Coverage
Policy Expert
Full Coverage
RIAS
Premium Analysis
Features Comparison
Policy Type Distribution
Policy Expert
Comprehensive
1
Third Party Fire & Theft
1
RIAS
Comprehensive
1
Third Party Fire & Theft
1
In-Depth Comparison Analysis
Expert Comparison Analysis: Policy Expert vs RIAS
Our comprehensive analysis compares Policy Expert and RIASacross multiple dimensions including pricing, coverage options, customer service quality, and claims handling. This detailed comparison is based on real policy data, customer feedback, and market research to help you make an informed decision about your car insurance.
Overall Verdict
Choose Policy Expert for budget-friendly first policies. Go with RIAS for feature-rich, senior-optimized cover and trusted claims service.
Detailed Head-to-Head Analysis
Pricing & Value Analysis
Policy Expert often undercuts RIAS by 10–15% for drivers under 50. However, RIAS is highly competitive for over-50s and retirees, offering senior-friendly pricing models.
Policy Expert
Average: £350.00
RIAS
Average: £286.67
Coverage & Benefits Comparison
RIAS includes personal injury and key cover as standard in many plans, whereas Policy Expert offers these as paid extras. RIAS also includes protected no-claims bonuses in upper tiers.
Customer Service Comparison
RIAS has a strong UK-based call team and excellent reviews among older demographics. Policy Expert is more self-service oriented.
Claims Process Analysis
Both brands deliver reliable claims support, but RIAS scores slightly higher in customer surveys for claims clarity and ease.
Key Differentiators
RIAS tailors policies for drivers over 50
Policy Expert excels in entry-level affordability
RIAS includes more built-in features at mid-tier pricing
Policy Expert is great for confident, tech-savvy users
RIAS performs better in long-term loyalty programs
Which Should You Choose? Real-World Scenarios
New Driver (Age 18-25)
First-time driver looking for affordable coverage with good support
Based on pricing for young drivers, available discounts, and customer support quality
Family with Multiple Cars
Two adults with 2-3 vehicles needing comprehensive coverage
Considering multi-car discounts, family-friendly features, and overall value
Senior Driver (65+)
Experienced driver seeking reliable coverage with excellent customer service
Based on senior-specific benefits, claims handling, and service quality
Business Vehicle
Commercial use requiring business insurance coverage
Evaluating business coverage options, commercial claims handling, and fleet discounts
UK Car Insurance Market Context
Understanding how Policy Expert and RIAS fit within the broader UK car insurance market helps contextualize this comparison. The following statistics provide insight into current market conditions.
Average Claim Settlement Time
15 days
Source: Financial Conduct Authority
Black Box Policy Uptake Among Drivers Under 25
51%
Source: Compare the Market, 2024 Telematics Report
Young Driver Premium Increase
+127%
Source: Confused.com Price Index
Percentage of Drivers Switching Insurers in 2024
39%
Source: GoCompare Switching Trends Survey
UK Car Insurance Market Size
31 million policies
Source: Statista UK Insurance Report
Average UK Car Insurance Premium 2024
£694
Source: Association of British Insurers
Average Cost of Car Insurance Fraud Per Case
£1,150
Source: Insurance Fraud Bureau, 2024
Customer Satisfaction Average
72%
Source: Consumer Intelligence
Detailed Real-World Analysis
A 65-year-old with a 2016 Honda Jazz in Exeter would likely save with RIAS and get broader cover. A 30-year-old in Sheffield might prefer Policy Expert’s simplicity.
Our Final Recommendation
After analyzing pricing, coverage, customer service, and claims handling, here's our recommendation for different customer profiles:
Choose Policy Expert if:
- You prioritize comprehensive service and support
- You value additional benefits and coverage options
- You don't mind paying extra for premium service
Choose RIAS if:
- You're focused on getting the best value for money
- You're comfortable with essential coverage levels
- You prefer straightforward, no-frills insurance
Important: The best choice depends on your individual circumstances, driving history, vehicle type, and personal preferences. We recommend getting quotes from both providers to compare actual prices for your specific situation.
Comparison Methodology
This comparison is based on comprehensive analysis of policy documents, customer reviews, claims data, pricing information, and independent research. We maintain editorial independence and regularly update our analysis to reflect market changes. Last updated: 7/15/2025
Making Your Decision
When comparing Policy Expert and RIAS, consider how each provider's strengths align with your specific vehicle and driving needs. Policy Expert's average premium of £350.00compared to RIAS's £286.67 should be weighed against the coverage and benefits each provider offers.
Key Differences:
- Premium range and pricing structure
- Coverage limits and exclusions
- Available policy types
- Claims process and service features
Next Steps:
- Review detailed policy documents
- Check for vehicle-specific coverage
- Consider your no claims bonus
- Compare excess options and limits
Remember that the best choice depends on your individual circumstances, including your vehicle's age, make, model, your driving history, and your budget. Consider getting quotes from both providers to make a fully informed decision.