Sainsbury's issues winter car insurance warning

Posted :30-01-2006

With freezing weather expected to hit many parts of Britain over coming weeks, Sainsbury's Car Insurance is warning motorists not only of the dangers associated with driving in winter, but the risk of theft.

According to research by Sainsbury's Car Insurance, up to 24,300 households will fall victim to 'frosting' this winter. 'Frosting' is where thieves take advantage of people leaving their keys in the ignition while defrosting their car.

Sainsbury's concluded that over the past five years, around 121,730 households may have become a victim of 'frosting'. This is particularly concerning, as many car insurance policies are invalidated if the driver leaves the keys in the ignition.

Richard Clark, Sainsbury's car insurance manager said: "More advanced security systems, locks and immobilisers have meant that it has become more difficult to steal cars. However, many thieves are opportunists and could strike if you leave your car running unattended.

"We are concerned that the predicted extreme cold weather will result in more people taking the risk and becoming victims of frosting."

Sainsbury's is also cautioning British motorists on the hazardous conditions frequently encountered during the winter.

The insurer has warned drivers to ensure cars have a winter service, to run the engine for at least five minutes before embarking on a journey, although customers are urged not to leave the car unattended whilst the keys are in the ignition and to make sure they have adequate car insurance to cover all eventualities.


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