30 December 2008
Motorists who received satellite navigation systems for Christmas are being warned that their devices could cause them to suffer travel sickness while driving.
According to esure, satnav gadgets and other in-car devices can create a conflicting sense of balance if drivers keep looking at them while the vehicle is moving.
The car insurance provider points out that feeling unwell behind the wheel could increase the risk of accidents, which could result in costly car insurance claims.
Mike Pickard, esure's Head of Risk and Underwriting, said: "Drivers and passengers need to understand what steps to take to prevent carsickness in order to make their journeys more pleasant and the roads safer."
The insurer adds that children could suffer motion sickness if they use handheld games consoles and other electronic devices in the car.
This could also distract a driver's attention from the road ahead and cause potentially serious accidents.
Last month, the Institute of Advanced Motorists warned satnav owners not to leave tell-tale suction marks on their windscreens as this could attract opportunistic thieves.