10 July 2007
British motorists are taking huge risks by not being properly insured behind the wheel, lying to their car insurance providers and not taking enough time to understand insurance application procedures, a new survey has uncovered.
According to a uSwitch poll of nearly 2,500 motorists, 6% of vehicles currently being driven on UK roads and motorways do not have any form of insurance at all.
What's more, a further 10% of drivers lie to their car insurance providers about their circumstances, with 750,000 drivers failing to declare speeding and drink driving convictions as well as driving bans.
It seems Britons don't mind telling lies when it comes to their car insurance providers, with over 1.5 million drivers intentionally lying about details such as their age and address in order to save on policies.
Aron Thompson, Head of Insurance at the independent online price comparison and switching service, uSwitch.com, said he wasn't surprised to learn the results of the survey, describing car insurance as a "grudge purchase" for many people.
"It's no great surprise to see people either withhold or knowingly provide inaccurate, crucial information in order to get cheaper cover.
"To the consumer, this may seem like a little white lie to save money. In reality, it could end up teaching the driver a costly lesson, on average 1,636, as the provider is under no obligation to settle a claim based on a policy which is inaccurate," he said.
He added: "If you are looking for car insurance, check, check and double check that you are submitting the correct details to your insurance provider. Regardless of the saving, it isn't worth the risk.
"Remember, if you already have a car insurance policy and your details change you are obligated to inform your insurer of any changes (such as a change in address). Driving without a valid insurance policy is a hazard to both the driver and everyone else on the road."
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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