Motorists called to update insurance

Posted :08-03-2005

Drivers in the UK are being urged to make sure that their insurance is up-to-date following the results of a new survey were revealed.

According to figures from Nationwide one in five cars is under-insured, as drivers are failing to inform their insurer of modifications made on their cars.

However, the survey also discovered that many motorists were unaware that they are obliged to notify their insurers of changes made.

Almost 20 per cent of drivers admit to changing the look or performance of their vehicle, and building society added that in some cases a failure to register changes could render a car insurance policy invalid.

Nearly half of those asked did not think they would have to inform their insurer if they added alloy wheels or tinted windows, while around a third of those asked admitted they would not notify their insurer if they fitted a sports exhaust or a spoiler.

Stuart Bernau, Nationwide's executive director, commented: "For many, a car is more than just a vehicle, it's an expression of personality and individuality."

He explained: "Many people spend a considerable amount of time, hard work and money modifying theirs to make it more unique. If any damage is caused to it, they are likely to want it dealt with quickly and efficiently, to restore it back to its best. It makes sense, therefore, to make sure ... any changes you have made are fully covered."

© DeHavilland Information Services plc

The views expressed within the article are entirely those of Adfero Ltd and are not those of BDML Connect Ltd