Motor insurers now operate in such a cut-throat market place that it can be very daunting trying to find that perfect combination of top class, no-quibble cover and competitive terms.

There are now three main ways to buy motor cover: through a broker, by telephone and online.

Which one is best depends on individual circumstances. For example, a direct telephone-based insurer will unashamedly go for lowest-risk business in order to be able to offer cutting-edge premium levels. This is known as "cherrypicking".

A broker, on the other hand, can often persuade an insurer to take a second look at a more unusual risk and perhaps even employ sufficient discretion to get an acceptance where it might otherwise be declined.

The internet-based services sit somewhere between the two. You might not get the truly personal service of a face-to-face meeting but your details will be passed before several insurers before you decide which one is the most attractive. You can compare prices from different motor insurers, and buy online if you wish, using our Compare and Buy service.