Huge premium hikes for drivers caught on phones

 

April 26, 2008

According to a recent report there is to be a huge rise in insurance premiums for drivers that are convicted of using their mobile phone whilst driving, with many set to see their premiums hiked up by a third if found guilty of this offence. The first company to increase the impact of this offence is Allianz Insurance, which will be treated the offence in the same way as careless driving.

Drivers already face three points and a £60 fine if caught on the mobile phone, and with many now facing hikes in insurance premiums that phone call could prove to be an extremely expensive one. Officials from Allianz have said that the move to increase premiums for those found guilty of being on a handheld mobile whilst driving was one that would encourage safer driving.

An official from the company stated: ‘By increasing the premiums for drivers with mobile phone convictions we are reinforcing the fact that this is a dangerous and needless act. If you are convicted of using a mobile phone while driving not only do you face a fine and points on your licence, you will also suffer the added financial burden of increased car insurance.’

In a recent study it was found that drivers that were on mobile phones whilst driving were more likely to be unable to control their speed and also had slower response times, making them more likely to cause an accident. The research was carried out by the Transport Research Laboratory. An official from the Association of British Insurers stated: ‘There is very clear evidence that suggests you are more likely to have an accident if you use your mobile while driving. The law on this issue is very clear and drivers should not do it.’

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Written by admin · Filed Under Mobile Phones, Utilities 

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