Tag: driving

Eight things you should NEVER leave in the car

British drivers have been warned about the dangers of leaving eight common items in their cars.

As the winter weather creeps in, motoring experts from LeaseCar.uk have revealed eight items you should always take out of cars and vans as a matter of health and safety.

Most drivers will take their belongings out of their vehicles after every journey to prevent break-ins and theft, but even low-cost items like sun cream and water bottles should be removed as extreme temperatures can reduce their efficacy.

And although the research is still a bit unclear, studies have linked chemicals found in plastic water bottles with health conditions like cancer and heart disease, and leaving them in the sun could cause these chemicals to leach into the water.

A spokesperson for LeaseCar.uk said: “In normal times, commuters will spend quite a few hours in their cars each week or even each day, and as a result, our vehicles can become homes for a variety of essential items like medication, water bottles, and even some food and snacks.

“But as this list reveals, there are some risks involved in leaving certain items in our cars, particularly if they’re exposed to extreme temperatures.”

1.    Medication

Most medicine should be left at room temperature, but parked cars rarely remain at that point during summer and winter. Heat, cold and moisture inside your car probably won’t make your drugs directly harmful, but it could make them less effective.

2.    Sun cream

Ironically, the active ingredients in sun scream break down in high heat. So, while unlikely to happen in the winter, leaving it in the car on a hot day could reduce its efficacy. Plus, the heat could cause it to explode.

3.    Water bottles

Although the research is still a bit unclear, studies have linked chemicals found in plastic water bottles (BPA and phthalates) with health conditions like cancer and heart disease. Letting a bottle sit in the sun and heat up could cause these chemicals to leach into the water. Plus, if the bottle has been lying around for a while, it could start developing harmful bacteria.

4.    Aerosol cans

Cans of deodorant, hairspray, or spray paint can all expand in extreme temperatures, potentially creating a full-on explosion if they’re left in the hot or cold weather for too long.

5.    Important documents

Vehicle registration documents need to be kept in cars but storing other important papers such as tax forms or bank statements in your car can leave you vulnerable to identity theft. With enough information about you, thieves can assume your identity to make purchases in your name. 

6.    Canned foods

You should never leave canned or tinned food in the car during freezing weather. When canned food freezes, the liquid expands and can break the seal, spoiling the food.

7.    Mobile phones

Many phone manufacturers advise against storing their products at temperatures below zero degrees. Performance of the lithium-ion batteries that power many mobile phones withers in extreme cold. Plus, you don’t want to risk them getting stolen anyway.

8.    Glasses

Try not to leave your glasses in the car, as both heat and cold can affect the frames. Extreme heat could cause frames to warp and extreme cold could cause them to snap.

Britain’s most dangerous roads

Motorists have been warned about some of the most dangerous roads in the UK and urged to take caution when driving them, particularly in winter weather.

Motoring experts from LeaseCar.uk have revealed roads in Northumberland, Cheshire and the Scottish Highlands could cause the most danger to drivers and passengers alike.

Lindisfarne Causeway, which links the famous island of Lindisfarne to Northern England may look safe, but the quick rising tide catches many a motorist off guard.

Roads such as the A39 in Somerset can also cause problems, especially when it reaches the 25% incline found at Porlock Hill.

A spokesperson for LeaseCar.uk said: “It’s easy to think that once you’ve passed your test or conquered a particularly long drive that you can cope with anything the roads throw at you.  

“However, some routes are significantly more dangerous than others.

“By ensuring you take time with your journey and pay even more attention to the road and other traffic, you can stay safe and navigate these risky roads.”

These is LeaseCar.uk’s list of most dangerous British roads:

1. Bealach-na-ba, Scottish Highlands

This is the third highest road in Scotland, reaching heights of 2,000 feet in some places. Learner drivers, large vehicles and caravans are advised to leave the road after the first mile. This leaves more experienced drivers to tackle the regular gradients of 20% that this road offers.

2. Lindisfarne Causeway, Northumberland

This road is open only twice a day, as the rising tide covers the causeway from mainland England to Lindisfarne at high tide. This perilous route can be picturesque and simple when the tide is out. However, the two-mile journey catches many drivers out due to the speed that the tide comes in. It’s not uncommon to see vehicles swept away and passengers stranded in huts situated on the side of the road in the middle of the sea.

3. Cat and Fiddle Road, Cheshire

This 7.5-mile route between Buxton and Macclesfield is lined with traditional dry-stone walls. Popular with tourists and lorries alike, the route has sheer drops at the side of the road and severe bends throughout. Although picturesque, it is important for drivers to keep their eyes firmly on the road.

4. Porlock Hill, Somerset

Known locally as the Atlantic Highway, the A39 near the village of Porlock is the one of the steepest A roads in England. When the road reaches Porlock Hill there is a gradient of 25%, climbing approximately 400m in less than two miles. The twists and turns of this road will keep you guessing, but the stunning scenery will keep passengers entertained.

5. Ffordd Pen Llech, North Wales

The steepest road in Britain, found in the Snowdonia National Park. Vehicles have been banned from driving parts of this road, which reaches inclines of 37.45%, meaning you may need to travel by foot on some parts of this brutal route.

6. Skyfall Road, Scottish Highlands

Famous for being featured in the James Bond film aptly named Skyfall, this road starts at the A82. Common characteristics of this dangerous road include tight hairpin bends wide enough for just one vehicle. Black ice can also be extremely common on this route, meaning care and caution must be taken.

Consultation to boost road safety and close mobile phone loophole

  • consultation launched to update law on using a hand-held device while driving
  • changes will help bolster enforcement and improve safe driving behaviour
  • further measures – including a review into roads policing – to tackle phone use at the wheel and improve road safety

People using a hand-held mobile phone in all circumstances while driving will be breaking the law, under new government plans unveiled by Roads Minister Baroness Vere today (17 October 2020) to close a legislation loophole and improve road safety.

It’s already a criminal offence to use a hand-held mobile phone to call or text while driving, but not for other actions such as taking photos. While still distracting, drivers have escaped punishment due to a legal loophole where such actions aren’t seen as ‘interactive communication’, and therefore do not fit the current definition of the offence.

Now, following a review of the offence, a consultation has been launched on bringing the law into line with modern technology – meaning drivers caught taking photos, playing games or scrolling through a playlist behind the wheel will be clearly breaking the law on mobile phone use.

Recognising that mobile phones are commonly used as a method of payment – such as at drive-thrus – an exemption will apply under the new proposals set out by government today to contactless payments, if a vehicle is stationary, and if goods or services – such as a takeaway meal – are delivered immediately.

Roads Minister Baroness Vere said: “Our roads are some of the safest in the world, but we want to make sure they’re safer still by bringing the law into the 21st century.

“That’s why we’re looking to strengthen the law to make using a hand-held phone while driving illegal in a wider range of circumstances – it’s distracting and dangerous and for too long risky drivers have been able to escape punishment but this update will mean those doing the wrong thing will face the full force of the law.”

Ministers have rejected calls to go further by banning the use of hands-free functions – drivers will still be able to continue safely using devices ‘hands-free’ while driving, such as a sat-nav secured in a cradle.

The proposals come as new research published today gives a further snapshot into driver behaviour in the UK.

The project, commissioned by the Department for Transport and carried out by the University of Leeds, looked at footage of 51 drivers and found over 765 trips, 662 mobile phone interactions were observed with only 38 completely hands-free. At 30mph, a car travels 100 feet in 2.3 seconds – meaning even a split-second lapse from changing a song on a playlist or checking an app could result in a crash.

By updating the law, police powers will be bolstered to tackle this behaviour even further – ensuring they can take immediate action if they see a driver holding and using their phone at the wheel. The penalties in place for using a hand-held mobile phone while driving are 6 penalty points and a £200 fine.

National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Roads Policing, Chief Constable Anthony Bangham, said: “Using a mobile phone while driving is incredibly dangerous and being distracted at the wheel can change lives forever.

“Police will take robust action against those using a hand-held mobile phone illegally and proposals to make the law clearer are welcome.”

AA president Edmund King OBE said: “There’s no excuse for picking up a mobile phone when driving so we’re pleased this loophole will be closed. Phones do so much more than calls and texts, so it’s only right that the law is changed to keep pace with technology. Tweets, TikTok and Instagram snaps can all wait until you park up.

“These new rules will clarify the law and help drivers realise that this dangerous act can have the same consequences and be as socially unacceptable as drink driving. If you cannot resist the temptation to pick up your phone, then you should convert your glovebox into a phone box.”

The government is also tackling phone use behind the wheel through a review of road traffic policing and wider traffic enforcement – to look at how roads policing currently works, its effectiveness, and where improvements could be made.

As well as this, the department runs dedicated THINK! campaigns to show drivers the risk they’re taking and the potentially devastating impact of using a hand-held mobile phone while driving.

In addition, the road safety action plan sets out over 70 measures to reduce the number of people killed or injured on roads around the country.

How to avoid autumnal road hazards

As temperatures start to drop and the days get shorter, drivers have been offered advice on how to avoid the dangers autumn can bring to UK roads.

The motoring experts at  LeaseVan.co.uk  have revealed their best advice for coping with autumnal hazards on the roads.

From replacing wiper blades to checking and replacing fog lights, drivers have been offered tips for preparing to drive in the low sun, rain, chilly mornings and sudden fog that autumn can bring.

The LeaseCar team have also looked at other potential hazards, like driving in the dark and avoiding animals which are more active in autumn.

Tim Alcock from  LeaseVan.co.uk  said: “Since we’ve been able to get out of our homes and back onto the roads, drivers will have gotten used to the warm dry weather, but with autumn just around the corner we wanted to make sure motorists were prepared for the potential dangers the change in weather can bring.

“We’ve compiled some advice for the different hazards, but the most important thing drivers need to remember is to slow down and leave plenty of room between them and the car in front.

“It’s also important to make sure your vehicle is in top condition too. Checking the wiper blades, bulbs and anti-freeze regularly is a must.”

1. Wet weather

Quick showers and heavy downpours can be dangerous to drive through. Rainwater mixing with the oil, dirt and grime on the roads can make then slick and slippery. Slow down and make sure you have enough stopping distance should you need to break suddenly.

2. Dazzle

Low sun can cause a problem at this time of year making it difficult to see. Make sure you carry a pair of sunglasses in the car, use the sun visors and keep the windscreen clean. A grimy windscreen can make the glare worse. If you are being dazzled, slow down.

3. Wet leaves

A patch of wet leaves can be just as dangerous as a big puddle. Reduce your speed before driving onto them, and remember, they may be hiding a pothole or other road hazard.

4. Driving in the dark

Being ready for night-time driving is essential. Check the bulbs in your headlights and taillights and when you’re on the road, slow down and keep an eye out for pedestrians.

5. Chilly mornings

The onset of autumn and winter means a dip in temperatures. Make sure your anti-freeze has been checked and you have everything you need to scrape the windscreen.

6. Icy roads

More of a problem during winter months, but some autumnal mornings can be icy. Try not to break suddenly or take corners too quickly. Be gentle with your acceleration and manoeuvres.

7. Fog

Fog can be a sudden hazard and it’s best to avoid driving if it’s too heavy. If you are caught out by quick falling fog, keep your speed low, use dipped lights and fog lights rather than full beamed lights and allow plenty of room for the car in front.

8. Animals

Deer are most active during the autumn months, October in particular, and are known to dart out into the road. If you see a deer, slow down and continue as usual.

9. Wiper blades

After a summer of sunshine, it’s time to check your wiper blades. If they squeak as they wipe, it’s time to replace them.

Watch your speed!

Speeding is as much of a threat to road safety as drink and drug driving

  • 89 per cent of people believe speeding in a residential area is as much of a threat to their safety as driving under the influence of illegal drugs
  • More than one-in-10 motorists (14 per cent) admit to having driven at more than 10 per cent over the speed limit in residential areas
  • Nearly half of motorists believe it is acceptable to speed on motorways with a quarter admitting to driving at over 80mph
  • IAM RoadSmart is calling once again for speeding to become as socially unacceptable as drink and drug driving

The UK’s largest independent road safety charity, IAM RoadSmart, has renewed its call for speeding to become as socially unacceptable as drink and drug driving, after publishing worrying new analysis that indicates excessive speed is considered acceptable on the motorway and on residential roads by many drivers.

The survey found that despite more than one-in-10 drivers admitting to exceeding the speed limit of 30mph in residential areas, for almost nine out of every 10 motorists surveyed, speeding in a residential area was perceived as almost as big a threat to their personal safety as motorists driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol or when distracted by social media.

Almost half of motorists (46 per cent) surveyed believe it is acceptable to drive 10 miles per hour over the 70mph speed limit on motorways, with a quarter even willing to go even faster. More than one-in-five motorists (22 per cent) think it is acceptable to drive five miles per hour over the speed limit on a residential street.

An alarming one-in-10 of the 2,000 people surveyed thought it was even acceptable to go over the speed limit near a school.

Neil Greig, Policy and Research Director for IAM RoadSmart, said: “The results of this survey are deeply concerning. Speeding consistently causes more than 4,400 casualties on UK roads each year.  

“That’s an average of 12 people a day killed or injured in some form.  We need a fundamental shift in attitudes towards speeding so that it becomes as socially unacceptable as drink and drug driving – where public opinion has changed over previous decades.”

Further findings from the IAM RoadSmart survey also reveal the different attitudes towards speeding in the UK regions.

Motorists in Yorkshire and Humber (65 per cent), closely followed by motorists in the West Midlands (59 per cent) felt that the issue of speeding was more of a problem today than it was three years ago compared to a national average of 55 per cent.

More than a fifth of London drivers (21 per cent) think they drive faster than most others on the roads, compared to a national average of 13 per cent. Drivers in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales are more safety conscious while only eight per cent of Scottish and Northern Irish drivers and seven per cent of Welsh drivers rated their driving faster than others.

London was also the region with the highest number of drivers who felt it was acceptable to go five miles over the speed limit near a school, with 15 per cent of Londoners admitting to speeding near a school, compared to the national average of 10 per cent.  Drivers in the east of England are the most responsible motorists outside schools, with only five per cent rating it acceptable behaviour.

Motorists in the south-east of England are most likely (55 per cent) to find it acceptable to speed on the motorway by up to 10 miles per hour over the speed limit, while there was less acceptability among the drivers of the West Midlands and Wales (at 43 per cent and 41 per cent respectively).

Meanwhile, drivers in Wales, where plans have received initial backing to cut the speed limit to 20mph in residential areas, not surprisingly, think it is least acceptable to speed in a residential area. 

Neil added: “There is a slight glimmer of hope as, overall, acceptability of driving 10 miles per hour over the speed limit on a motorway has dropped by around 10 per cent since 2016, but there is still a long, long way to go. 

Attitudes towards tackling urban speeding are much more positive and support for measures such as speed cameras around schools was very high at 82 per cent.  Overall, however, opinions on 20mph as the new urban limit are still finely balanced with 53 per cent for and 47 per cent against, which shows much work is needed to change deeply entrenched behaviour.

“The findings of this survey also highlight that drivers who responded had a lower opinion of other people’s driving behaviour than they had of their own. There needs to be much greater acceptance of the fact we can all improve our standards of driving behaviour and take action whenever we are on the road to improve road safety.”

To find read the full report please visit: https://www.iamroadsmart.com/media-and-policy/research-and-policy/research-details/driving-safety-culture-survey-2019

September’s new reg plate heralds opportunity for in-car infotainment familiarisation

  • IAM RoadSmart calls for Government and vehicle manufacturers to enforce greater education and familiarisation of new in-car technology from car dealers
  • 1st September marks the arrival of the new 70 registration plate and new car owners should familiarise themselves with the infotainment system before they take delivery of their new vehicle
  • New car technology can help increase road safety but must be used correctly

Government and vehicle manufacturers should enforce greater education and familiarisation of new in-car technology before drivers leave the forecourts or take delivery of their new vehicle, claims IAM RoadSmart, the UK’s largest independent road-safety charity.

Its urgent call coincides with the arrival of the new 70 registration plate on 1st September which could give car dealers a welcome boost in sales as motorists search for the latest models with the new number plate.

And while most new in-car systems, including infotainment and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems – commonly known as ADAS – are designed to increase road safety, they need to be used correctly, reminds IAM RoadSmart.

Data from research commissioned by the road safety charity earlier this year revealed that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto significantly affect reaction times and increase stopping distances.

Disturbingly, the research shows that these systems can impair reaction times behind the wheel more than alcohol and cannabis use.

In fact, stopping distances, lane control and response to external stimuli were all negatively affected by the use of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Furthermore, the reaction times of drivers tested was significantly slower at motorway speeds than someone who had used cannabis and five times worse than someone driving at the legal limit of alcohol consumption.

Neil Greig, IAM RoadSmart’s Director of Policy and Research, said: “Now is the perfect opportunity to highlight the importance of correctly using the latest in-car technology with the arrival of the new registration plate on 1st September.

“Swiping a screen is replacing the turn of a button or dial so it is vital that car dealers educate motorists on how to correctly use these new systems, so that they are a safety benefit and not a potentially dangerous distraction.”

Other findings from the IAM RoadSmart commissioned research found that using in-car touch screens resulted in reaction times that were even worse than texting while driving.

Neil said: “Driver distraction is estimated to be a factor in around a third of all road collisions in Europe each year.

“As the amount of in-car infotainment and ADAS features continues to increase, we believe car dealers have a responsibility to correctly educate their customers and ensure they are familiar with all the high-tech systems in their shiny new purchase before they leave the forecourt. It is also imperative that the Government and the vehicle manufacturers enforce and support this.

“We’re calling on industry and Government to openly test and approve such systems and develop consistent standards that genuinely help minimise driver distraction.

“Whether you’re buying a new car now or already own a vehicle with technology that is new to you, it is vital that you use it safely. Anything that distracts a driver’s eye or mind from the road is bad news for road safety.”

To find out more about the study commissioned earlier this year click here.

Vehicle registrations plummet 94% as pandemic takes hold

Vehicle registrations fell by an estimated 94% in April, and 85% in May, compared to the same months last year, according to figures released today by the Department for Transport.

The quarterly Vehicle Licensing Statistics reported 599,000 vehicles were registered in the first quarter of this year, a 30% fall from the first quarter of 2019, resulting in a drop in the total number of licenced vehicles on Britain’s roads – only the second decline in the total number of vehicles on the road since the end of the Second World War.

The figures revealed an 82% decrease in registrations in the last week of March, coinciding with the UK lockdown coming into force and vehicle dealerships and showrooms being required to close, which removed the main method by which new vehicles are sold.

This was followed by 12,340 vehicle registrations in April and 37,100 in May, representing annual drops of 94% and 85% respectively.

However, the number of newly registered ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs) shot up to 33,700, an increase of 113% on last year. In contrast, new diesel cars fell by 45% and petrol cars sales were down by 34%.

Responding to the government’s newly published data Greg Wilson, founder of leading car insurance comparison website, Quotezone.co.uk, says: “It’s not a surprise to learn that the lockdown has had a significant impact on vehicles sales, but the scale of that impact is truly staggering, particularly at the height of the lockdown in April and May.

“It’s also significant that the total number of vehicles on the road fell in the first quarter – the first time that number has fallen since 1991, and only the second time since the end of the Second World War. This is likely to be due to a combination of fewer new vehicles being registered as the lockdown was introduced, and some motorists deciding to SORN their vehicles if they weren’t likely to need them during lockdown.

“It’s also interesting to note the sharp rise in ULEV registrations – given that many electric cars are able to be delivered directly to the buyer, it’s possible this trend was partly driven by the lockdown as well.”

www.quotezone.co.uk

Car use is rising despite the lockdown

  • Figures show a steady increase breakdowns and average miles driven per day
  • More than a third of drivers say they are using their vehicles more for food shopping as well as trips to DIY stores

Ahead of this weekend’s announcement on how the UK might begin to ease the current lockdown restrictions, an RAC study confirms drivers are already using their cars more than they were earlier in the coronavirus lockdown.

The study analysed RAC ‘black box’ driving data, breakdown numbers and route planning figures since the lockdown began. Comparing the second week of lockdown with last week, 11% more cars were on the road and 23% more daily miles were driven, based on analysis of hundreds of thousands of trips taken by RAC Black Box Insurance customers with telematics units fitted.

Vehicle breakdowns are also up, with those attended by RAC patrols up by nearly a fifth (18%) across the same period.

The number of routes planned via the RAC Routeplanner is also increasing, suggesting a rise in trips being taken by drivers. More routes were planned on Monday 5 May 2020 than on any other day during the lockdown, with 16% more planned on this day than just a week earlier.

Comparing lockdown week two (w/c 30/3/20) with lockdown week six (w/c 27/4/20), there were:

11% more cars on the road

23% more daily miles driven

18% more RAC breakdowns

The data is supported by the findings of a new survey by the RAC which suggests that four-in-10 drivers (41%) admit they are now using their vehicles more frequently than earlier in the nationwide coronavirus lockdown.

The survey of 1,500 drivers found that the top reason for using a car more was for food and grocery shopping (almost a quarter, 23% of drivers), while 9% said that they were doing so to pick up essential supplies or for trips to a pharmacy.

But worryingly, a small but appreciable 5% said they were using their vehicle more now to specifically purchase alcohol, while the same proportion (5%) said they were going out in the car specifically to visit DIY stores as Britons look to make home improvements while spending more time at home.

A slightly smaller proportion of drivers (4%) said they were using their car more to drive somewhere to do exercise, and the same percentage said they were using their vehicle more for work purposes.

A fraction of drivers (1%) said they were taking their car solely to give it a run, with the same proportion citing the reason as driving to a beauty spot. The same percentage (1%) said they driving to see relatives or friends though it is unclear whether these relatives are vulnerable and require assistance.

RAC head of roads policy Nicholas Lyes said: “There is now mounting evidence that people are venturing back out in their vehicles for more essential, as well as arguably non-essential journeys.

“This perhaps is being driven by lockdown fatigue and boredom while the sunny spring weather might also be enticing drivers back into their vehicles. Additionally, some who are indoors might have chosen to carry out home maintenance and DIY, so have taken an opportunity to visit DIY stores that are now open.

“Our own data clearly shows a slight, but nonetheless steady, rise in the number of drivers using their vehicles, and the distances they are travelling in them on a daily basis, compared with earlier in the lockdown. As we near the end of the seventh week of the lockdown, all eyes are on what the Government announces this weekend in terms of how and when movement restrictions might be lifted.

“Until anything concrete is confirmed, the current advice remains to only go out when necessary for essential purposes, or where you cannot work from home. Even where drivers need to head out to pick up food shopping, this should be done as infrequently as possible to help stop the spread of the virus. The question drivers should ask themselves before venturing out is ‘do I really need to?’

“By only using the car for essential journeys at this time, we’re not only helping prevent the virus spreading, but are also reducing the risk of being involved in a road collision and avoiding putting any further pressure on the NHS.”

Car insurance: It pays to shop around

The cost of car insurance across Scotland has increased in the past 12 months, new data reveals, proving it’s more important than ever for drivers to shop around for the best deal. The average price of car insurance in the region has accelerated by £47 (8%) in the past year to now stand at £674.

That’s according to the latest Confused.com car insurance price index, powered by Willis Towers Watson. Based on more than six million quotes every quarter, it’s the most comprehensive car insurance price index in the UK.

While this may not be the news that drivers want to hear at this time, further research offers some relief, revealing the potential savings to be made from shopping around and avoiding automatic renewals.

The research, conducted by Confused.com, found that nearly half (46%) of UK motorists saw their car insurance price increase. Of those who saw their insurance price increase, more than a third (37%) opted to shop around using a price comparison website and switch to a better deal, saving £59, on average.

Some drivers saw even bigger savings, with one in six (17%) finding a policy that was more than £100 cheaper than their original price.

Following the report of these increases, Louise O’Shea, CEO at Confused.com, highlights the importance of shopping around.

It’s important, now more so than ever, for drivers to take a closer look at the price they’re paying for insurance and see if there’s a better deal out there for them. And while automatically renewing may seem like the stress-free thing to do in the short-term, it could end up costing drivers more in the long run.

Those taking this option could be signing up to an annual policy that is potentially hundreds of pounds more expensive than other options out there.

Therefore, it’s crucial for drivers to be taking the time to check their renewal document and compare with the previous year’s price.

And even if prices are similar, or have dropped slightly, then there is still the opportunity to save money. To further incentivise drivers to seek out a better deal, Confused.com is giving them the chance to save even more by guaranteeing to beat their car insurance renewal price, or give them the difference plus £20.

Over the past 12 months, the cost of car insurance has increased across Scotland. However, some drivers have seen more significant changes in the price than others. According to Confused.com’s price index, motorists in Central Scotland have been hit hardest by the increases, with prices in the region accelerating by £53 (8%) in 12 months.

This is one of the steepest increases across the UK, in terms of percentages, bringing the average premium just £1 below the most expensive on record for the region. Drivers in Central Scotland can now expect to pay £716 for their car insurance, on average.

Similarly, prices have increased in the Scottish Borders, with the average cost of car insurance rising by £46 (8%) year-on-year. This is also among the highest percentage increases for all UK regions. This means drivers in the region are now paying £625 for their car insurance.

Meanwhile other regions in Scotland saw increases, with prices in the East and North East and the Highlands and Islands climbing by £42 (7%) and £38 (6%) respectively. Drivers in the East and North East now pay £628, while the average price in the Highlands and Islands reached £640 this past quarter.

It’s a similar picture across the rest of UK, with all regions facing increases year-on-year. Overall, the average premium for UK drivers increased by £47 (6%) to now sit at £809. Although, in the past three months alone, prices dipped by £6 (1%), on average.

However, despite a slight drop in price, the cost of car insurance is still at one of the highest points in more than two years. But what can drivers do to bring their price down? It can be easy for drivers to feel overwhelmed by the news of increasing car insurance costs and thinking there isn’t anything they can do to help bring them down.

However, this isn’t the case. According to Confused.com’s expert guide, there are several things drivers can do to reduce the price they pay for car insurance.

For example, drivers can cut back on their cost by paying annually where they can. While paying monthly is more convenient, it’s like taking out a small loan, which will usually carry interest on top of the initial price. And according to Confused.com data this can cost as much as 16% more than the annual price.

Another way for drivers to cut back on their car insurance costs is to more accurately estimate their mileage. While some may believe that opting for a lower annual mileage could offer a lower price, data suggests this isn’t always the case.

According the car insurance price index data from Confsued.com, motorists who drive between 10,000 and 11,000 miles per year pay £678 for their car insurance, on average. Meanwhile, those who drive between 8,00 and 9,000 pay £748, in comparison.

And the price increases as the mileage gets smaller. For example, motorist who claim to drive between 4,000 and 5,000 miles per year pay £860, on average. This is because, in the eyes of insurers, drivers who spend less time on the road could be considered as less experienced, and therefore a higher risk.

However, the key to benefitting from these savings is to make sure the information is accurate and correct, or drivers risk voiding their policy.

Confused.com’s expert advice also suggests that adding extra security devices or opting for black box insurance could also result in saving some money on car insurance policies.

And choosing the right type of cover could be key to cutting costs. While many drivers might be drawn to take out third party, fire and theft cover, believing it may be the cheapest option, this may not always be the case. In fact, the average price of these policies tends to be pushed up. This is because higher risk drivers are more likely to opt for this type of cover.

Some drivers across Scotland may feel more inclined to find ways to cut their costs, as some bear the brunt of the recent price increases more so than others.

Annual increases in prices in Edinburgh, Dumfries, and Kirkcaldy means drivers in these areas are now paying the most expensive on record.

A steep £75 (13%) rise in prices for drivers in Dumfries brings the average price of car insurance in the area to £650. Meanwhile, prices Kirkcaldy climbed by £50 (9%) to £614 in Kirkcaldy, and £48 (8%) to £655 in Edinburgh, on average.

However, drivers in Glasgow face the most expensive car insurance costs, with prices now £784, following a £60 (8%) increase year-on-year. While motorists in the Hebrides saw the steepest annual increases, with prices accelerating by £85 (13%) in 12 months to now stand at £732, on average.

Meanwhile, female drivers across all Scottish regions saw the biggest changes to their car insurance costs. In particular, prices for female drivers in Central Scotland increased by £59 (9%) to £684, while men saw a £48 (7%) increase, in comparison. This means they’re now paying £741, on average, bringing the gap between the two to £57.

Younger, female drivers across all regions saw the biggest increases in particular, with prices for 17-20-year olds increasing as much as £101 (7%) year-on-year.

Female drivers of this age pay as much as £1,576 for their car insurance, while male drivers of the same age pay as much as £2,043 in comparison, on average. However, the only winners this quarter is 17-20-year-old male drivers in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, who are the only age group to see their price drop year-on-year.

Prices for these drivers are now -£2 (0%) cheaper than one year ago, standing at £1,980, on average.

Meanwhile, older drivers saw less dramatic increase in prices. Male motorists aged 71 and over in the Scottish Highlands and Islands saw their cost of car insurance increase just £15 (4%) over the past year to £370, on average.

However, the cheapest car insurance cost is rewarded to 66 to 70-year-old female drivers in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, who pay just £278, on average. Meanwhile, the cheapest price paid for men across Scotland is £312 for 66 to 70-year olds in East and North East Scotland.

But, while car insurance prices are on the up, drivers are offered some respite in other motoring costs. The cost of fuel across the UK has dropped significantly over the past four months.

According to Confused.com’s fuel price index, the average price of petrol this month is 116p per litre, compared to 127p in January. Similarly, diesel costs have dropped, with prices now 119p per litre, compared to 132p four months ago.

Louise O’Shea, CEO at Confused.com comments: “The fact that car insurance costs have increased in Scotland is not the news we need especially right now.  Year on year prices are up, but over the past few months they haven’t changed that much.  

“However, as a result of the lockdown the majority of people are using their cars less, it is therefore likely that we will see some change to prices in the coming months as insurers adjust to reflect this.  We are constantly monitoring the situation so that we can update our customers on any changes that happen.

“Automatically renewing with your insurer might seem like the easiest, stress-free option, but it could be costly.

“Even if your renewal price is cheaper, or the same, it’s likely there will be another insurer out there willing to offer a better price.  At Confused.com we’re so certain drivers will be able to find a better price than their current insurer that we’re offering to beat their renewal quote or give them the difference, plus £20.

“Please don’t pay more than you have to – take a few minutes to check your renewal letter and get a cheaper price because now, more than ever, it’s so important to shop around.”

Tax It Or Lose It!

DVLA is back on the road targeting motorists across the UK with a communications campaign that has a clear message for those who take a chance on not taxing their vehicle – tax it or lose it.

The campaign is targeting the 20 regions of the UK where vehicle tax evasion is higher:

Area Total enforcement actions in 2019
Belfast 78,501
Birmingham 61,531
Bristol 24,747
Cardiff 28,857
Coventry 23,739
Doncaster 17,885
East London 26,005
Edinburgh 24,779
Glasgow 34,375
Leicester 23,174
Manchester 34,106
Newcastle 22,996
Northampton 18,729
North London 24,766
Nottingham 26,134
Peterborough 23,271
Romford 18,325
Sheffield 30,467
South London 29,336
Swansea 18,237

During 2019, DVLA took nearly 590,000 enforcement actions in these 20 regions against the keepers of untaxed vehicles.

The campaign will focus on showing the real consequences to those who don’t tax their vehicles – from penalties and fines to clamping, and ultimately losing their vehicle.

A giant clamp is at the centre of the campaign images, making it clear that DVLA takes action against untaxed vehicles on streets across the country every day, just like those in the image.

DVLA doesn’t need to spot an untaxed vehicle on the road to take action, but any vehicle spotted on the road that isn’t taxed, or is wrongly declared SORN, risks being clamped or impounded by one of DVLA’s enforcement teams. These teams travel in vehicles equipped with number plate recognition cameras, and are based around the UK to take action against untaxed vehicles.

DVLA’s Chief Executive, Julie Lennard, said: “The number of untaxed vehicles on the road is falling, but we are determined to reduce this even further. We operate a range of measures to make vehicle tax easy to pay and hard to avoid, so there really is no excuse if you fail to tax your vehicle.

“While the vast majority of motorists do the right thing and tax correctly, this campaign highlights the real consequences that motorists face if they don’t tax their vehicles.”

RAC spokesman Simon Williams said: “While the vast majority of motorists abide by the law and tax their vehicles correctly, high-profile enforcement campaigns like this are needed to make sure the consequences of not doing so are fully understood.

“This DVLA campaign gives a very clear warning of the action that will be taken on untaxed vehicles. Having your vehicle clamped is expensive and inconvenient so it’s far simpler to make sure you tax it.

You can easily check when your tax is due using DVLA’s vehicle enquiry service on GOV.UK: all you need is your vehicle registration. It’s also really important to tell DVLA straightaway if you move house, so you don’t risk missing the reminder letters that DVLA sends to all vehicle keepers.

When DVLA clamps an untaxed vehicle the motorist is charged a £100 release fee. If they cannot show that the vehicle has been taxed when it is released the motorist will have to pay a surety fee of £160. This is refunded if the motorists can show the vehicle has been taxed within 15 days.

If the release fee is not paid within 24 hours DVLA impounds the vehicle and the fee rises to £200. There is also a storage charge of £21 per day. Again, a surety fee of £160 must be paid if the motorist cannot show that the vehicle has been taxed.