driving – Page 2 – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

Car insurance costs squeezing British motorists

British motorists are being given top tips on how to save money on their car insurance policy after concerns premiums are on the rise.

In a year many goods have increased in price, car insurance premiums are no exception.

Insurance price comparison specialists Quotezone.co.uk are urging drivers to take steps to lower their premiums.

One of the most important money-saving tips is to do your homework, compare different providers, and never let a policy automatically renew.

Drivers need to strike a good balance between cost and coverage, ensuring the policy has all the essentials they need at a competitive price.

Among the list of money saving hacks is shopping early, improving vehicle security, building up the no claims bonus and being mindful of where the car is kept overnight.

These simple tips can come in very handy for those looking to make cutbacks on their insurance expenses without making any major changes.

Quotezone.co.uk Founder and CEO Greg Wilson said: “It’s concerning to see car insurance prices on the rise. The soaring cost of repairs, materials and even paint, has all had a knock-on effect on premium price. The volume of claims is also increasing, partly due to the extreme weather we’ve witnessed recently.

“However, we can help, there are ways to save and using our comparison site is an ideal platform to compare products, to make sure you’re getting the cover you need, at a price you can afford.

“While aiming to secure cost-effective coverage, it’s crucial for drivers to ensure they’re not compromising on protection in case of accidents or unforeseen circumstances. Often there’s very little difference in price between third party cover and fully comprehensive, so if you can, it’s best to safeguard your finances and go fully comprehensive.

“It’s also important to always give accurate information when getting a quote, as any incorrect information can invalidate your policy and leave you unprotected.”

Here are Quotezone.co.uk’s top 10 tips to help get a cheaper insurance premium:

Shop early

It’s better to plan ahead and buy your policy early to lock in the price, as premium prices tend to increase the closer you get to your renewal date. The optimal time for bagging the cheapest deal is three weeks before the new policy is due to start.

Pay annually

If possible, it’s best to pay the entire annual premium upfront to save hundreds in the long term. Insurance providers look at monthly instalments as loans and can have high interest rates. Consider paying it all in one go to knock cash off your policy.

Improve vehicle security

Most vehicles should have an alarm and immobiliser as standard but it’s worth installing anti-theft devices such as a tracker and dashcam – it will upgrade the vehicle’s security and could get you cheaper premiums. Get the policy quotes first to consider whether the extra cost of fitting the devices will be worth it for the insurance savings.

Review your policy

Make sure to only pay for what you need and avoid driving up the premium by adding unnecessary add-ons – such as annual mileage, make sure your estimation is accurate. Also check your vehicle use, if you use it to drive to the train station for your commute to work it still needs to be noted as used for your daily commute. If you now work from home full-time, it might be worth switching the vehicle use to social only, it could result in big savings.

Add another driver

If you add another driver to the policy then you may be eligible for a multi-driver discount, plus you can split the cost of the premium. It can be particularly beneficial if the other person is an experienced driver with a clean record as they pose less risk to the insurance company, which could lead to lower premiums. Just make sure the person who uses the vehicle the most is noted as the main driver, incorrect use of this information is known as ‘fronting’ and is actually illegal, likely resulting in a criminal record and a void insurance policy.

Park in a safe place

Car owners that make use of their garages, driveways or carports for overnight parking can make big savings on their car insurance – parking on driveways rather than on the road can save you over £140 on average every year. Carport owners can do even better, with savings coming in at £230 on average.

Build up your no claims bonus

Avoid filing small claims to build up your no claims bonus. Opting to pay for minor damages out of your own pocket instead of filing a claim can prevent potential premium hikes.

Opt for a telematics product or black box

Getting a telematics device or black box fitted allows drivers to showcase their safe driving which can lead to cheaper premiums. This is a good option for young drivers and those with previous motoring convictions who are charged more as they are seen to be more at risk. By using the device it’s giving the insurance company data on which to base its risk analysis.

Avoid penalty points

Penalty points on your licence may not only result in a steep fine but will also bump up your insurance costs too. Drivers can expect premiums to rise by 5% for three points and 25% for six points if they’re starting from a clean licence.

Compare everything

Don’t allow your policy to renew automatically or settle for the first insurance quote you receive. Take the time to do your research and compare rates from multiple sources to get the cheapest price on your premium. You can save time and utilise price comparison websites to help you compare providers, compare products and of course compare prices.

To compare up to 110 UK car insurance providers visit:

https://www.quotezone.co.uk/car-insurance.

EV Adopters urge those considering making the switch to to their homework

MotorEasy survey finds the cost and practicalities of charging remain a significant challenge for EV owners

New figures reveal that sales of used battery electric cars almost doubled last year, with a record 119,000 of the vehicles changing hands^*.

However, despite increasing numbers of motorists making the switch, a new survey of MotorEasy members has revealed that continuing challenges with the cost of charging, access to public charging and the apps used to facilitate charging are damaging the ownership electric vehicle (EV) experience.

Over half of survey respondents expressed frustrations with battery range and one in four said energy costs for recharging are a worry. However, the biggest ownership hurdles for owners are access to public charging (73%) and the practicalities of using these chargers (71%), including the multitude of apps supposedly designed to ease charging (65%). The rapid and much-publicised depreciation of used EVs has also left 65% of owners worried about the loss of value in their EV.

“Although the number of EVs on UK roads is accelerating, our membership survey strongly confirms that the accessibility of EV charging still has a long way to go,” commented Duncan McClure Fisher, CEO of Intelligent Motoring, the parent company of MotorEasy.

“Almost three-quarters of the EV drivers we surveyed have experienced difficulties with accessing and using the infrastructure.

“As a result, EV owners advised those considering the switch to prioritise the installation of a home charger to save both time and money. Experienced owners also suggest new buyers research energy providers and take advantage of nighttime charging tariffs wherever possible, to make powering up even more cost-effective.”

Over 22% also said that service, maintenance and repair costs are putting a strain on finances, with 25% of drivers claiming to have faced challenges finding a qualified garage or technician to conduct service, maintenance or repair work.

Duncan McClure Fisher continued: “With high voltage systems and advanced technology onboard, technicians working on EVs need to have the right training, which can mean EV owners may not be able to use their usual garage.

“However, a little research should identify a qualified EV technician locally or check out the Institute of the Motor Industry’s Professional Register which lists TechSafe-accredited technicians.

“It is vital that owners have the assurance that their vehicle is suitably maintained by a qualified professional and safe to drive.”

EV adopters – two essential points of advice

Choose carefully – do your research on different makes and models, take a test drive, do not be swayed by an enthusiastic salesperson, and prioritise range by opting for the vehicle with the longest range you can afford.
Get a home charger – it’s a more cost and time-efficient way of charging. Consider your expected usage and charging requirements, and don’t leap into having an expensive fast charger installed – you may not need it if you can charge slowly overnight using a three-pin plug and relevant adapter and cable provided with the car.

*Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT)

Cost of car insurance in Scotland accelerates by £309 as drivers face record-breaking premiums

The average price of car insurance in Scotland is now £806, following a 62% increase in the past 12 months

Significant increases across the 4 main Scottish regions put prices at the highest on record, with some drivers paying £897 for their car insurance.
In particular, motorists in Central Scotland are seeing the steepest changes to their premiums, with year-on-year prices increasing the most of all UK regions (64% / £350).
It’s a similar picture across the rest of the UK, where drivers are now paying £995, on average. That’s a £366 (58%) increase compared to 12 months ago.
But further research(1) suggests that those opting to renew could be paying even more. Three in 4 (75%) UK drivers who received their renewal last quarter saw their price increase by £93, on average.
Why are car insurance prices so high? Louise Thomas, car insurance expert at Confused.com, explains why drivers are seeing such a significant shift in their costs.

New data has revealed that drivers in Scotland face record high car insurance costs, as the average price in Scotland reaches £806.

That’s following a £309 (62%) increase in prices in the past 12 months, according to the latest car insurance price index by Confused.com, powered by WTW. Based on more than 6 million quotes per quarter, it’s the most comprehensive car insurance price index for new business premiums in the UK.

Significant increases across the region means that some drivers are paying out as much as £897 for their car insurance. This is the case for those living in Central Scotland, where prices have accelerated at a staggering pace over the past 12 months. According to the data, prices in this Scottish region rose by 64%, equivalent to £350, in the past 12 months. This is the steepest increase seen across all UK regions when it comes to the percentage of their premium. This makes it the most expensive Scottish region for car insurance.

Those in East and North East Scotland have seen a similar change to their car insurance costs. Prices in this region increased by 61%, or £279, in the past 12 months. This puts the average cost of insurance here at £735.

Meanwhile, those in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, and Scottish Borders pay slightly less, despite premiums also increasing significantly in the past year. The average cost of car insurance in these regions is now £712 and £657, respectively.

On a more granular level, some drivers in Central Scotland have seen even bigger shifts in their prices, compared to the regional average.

Those in Glasgow and Edinburgh have seen the steepest changes in their premiums in the past 12 months, compared to the rest of the UK areas. The average price of insurance in Glasgow, for example, increased by 65% (£394) over the last year.

While a 65% increase in Edinburgh meant prices rose by £318, on average. This means drivers in these 2 Scottish areas can now expect to pay £998 and £806 for their car insurance, respectively, on average.

Prices in Central Scotland

Region	Average £	Annual £ change	Annual % change	Quarterly £ change	Quarterly % change
Central Scotland	£897	£350	64%	£77	9%
East & North East	£735	£279	61%	£60	9%
Highlands & Islands	£712	£264	59%	£58	9%
Scottish Borders	£657	£239	57%	£55	9%

Significant annual increases in premiums can be seen across the rest of the UK. The average driver is now paying £995 for their car insurance, on average – the highest price on record in the UK.

According to the data, prices have increased by an average of £366 (58%) in the past 12 months. However, in the past 3 months, prices only increased by 8%, or £71, on average. While this is a significant change over a short time, it’s still considerably lower than the changes over the last 6 months. Between March and September last year, prices increased by 41%, or £267, on average. This worked out at increases of 18% and 19% for each 3 month period

However, as it stands, prices are still rising, and some drivers could be paying significantly more for their premiums if they choose to renew. That’s as further research suggests renewing customers are now even more likely to see significant annual price increases.

In a survey of 2,000 UK drivers(1), around 3 in 4 (75%) of those who renewed their policy in the last 3 months saw their premium increase. This is around 10% more than those who renewed at any other point last year, on average. And those who received a higher renewal price were quoted £98 more than the previous year, on average.

In comparison with Confused.com’s data, this is more expensive than the price they could be paying if they took out a new policy. Of these, 37% went on to shop around and took out a new policy with a different insurer, saving £96, on average. Meanwhile, only 7% received a cheaper renewal price, on average.

So while prices are up across the board, it’s clear from the data that those who choose to shop around rather than renewing their policy could be better off. And this could be a key consideration for some drivers, who are paying significantly more than the UK average.

Motorists aged between 17 and 20 have seen their premiums rise by more than £1,000, on average, compared to 12 months ago. For 17 year olds, this is a 98% increase year-on-year, equivalent to £1,423, on average. This brings the average price of a policy to £2,877.

Meanwhile, a £1,447 (84%) increase in prices for 18-year-olds means they’re paying more than £3,000 for the first time. Their premiums reached £3,162 on average. Hefty increases also means that drivers up to the age of 43 can expect to pay £1,000 or more for their car insurance, on average.

It’s a similar picture for different regions across the UK too, with some paying significantly more than others. In particular, prices in Northern Ireland have tipped over the £1,000 mark for the first time on record. This is after prices increased by £383 (57%) in the past 12 months. This brings the average premium in the region to £1,051. Meanwhile, a 64% (£350) increase in prices in Central Scotland means premiums have doubled in 2 years, with the average driver now paying £897.

However, London remains the most expensive region in the UK for car insurance. Drivers in Inner and Outer London pay £1,607 and £1,291 respectively, on average.

With prices increasing significantly, it’s a bleak time for drivers and their car insurance. That’s even if they’re able to save compared to the year before. But experts at Confused.com urge drivers to review their policies to see if there are other ways they can save. Especially as the cost of living crisis continues to impact many.

There are some tips drivers can try to keep costs down when it comes to renewal:

Use a price comparison site – When it comes to keeping costs down, the best thing you can do is compare prices. That way you can ensure you’re getting the best deal to suit your needs and not paying more than you need to. And it’s likely that you can make a saving.
Pay for your car insurance annually – If you can afford it, pay for your insurance in one go rather than monthly. That’s because insurance companies often charge interest for spreading the cost of your cover over the year.
Increase your voluntary excess – Increasing your voluntary excess can help you get cheaper car insurance. But you need to make sure you can afford to pay it, if you need to claim.
Be accurate with mileage – Generally, the more miles you drive, the more likely you are to have an accident and make a claim. This means the higher your mileage, the more you pay for your car insurance. So, driving fewer miles can be a great way to save money on your car insurance policy. But don’t assume that a low mileage always means low prices. If you barely drive at all, your insurance company could see that as a risk as well.

Enhance your car security – The harder it is to steal your car, the less of a risk it is. This usually means cheaper car insurance. There are several ways to improve your car security including:

= Installing a Thatcham-approved car alarm or immobiliser, if it doesn’t already have one

= Adding secondary levels of security like a steering lock

= Parking overnight in a secure, well-lit car park, or at home in a garage or driveway, if possible

For more advice on how to reduce costs, visit Confused.com’s guide on how to get cheaper car insurance.

But why are prices so high at the moment?

Inflation has played a key role in the rise of car insurance costs, due to the impact on the cost of repairs and claims. Since the end of the pandemic, the number of cars on the road has increased to a normal, if not inflated level. This means the risk of accidents and claims is a lot higher than before.

And the amount insurers are having to pay for these claims has increased too, as parts and labour costs are all impacted by inflation. Similarly, cars are holding their value for longer, or are generally equipped with more technology or expensive equipment. This means the cost to replace a car is more than before too.

So while inflation remains high, insurers are paying more to cover the cost of claims. This is reflected in the prices they’re offering drivers for their car insurance.

While it seems from Confused.com’s data that there’s some respite from steep increases, the car insurance market remains incredibly volatile. This is why it’s so important that drivers are shopping around and comparing policies. By doing this, they can make sure they’re getting the best price, as prices are probably going to be high for some time.

Louise Thomas, motoring expert at Confused.com car insurance comments, “Like a lot of our expenses, car insurance is getting more costly. And this is to be the case for some time.

“Claiming is one of the biggest factors when it comes to insurers pricing up policies. And with the cost of paying out for claims being considerably high, insurance prices are going to be too.

“While it looks like increases could be slowing down for now, we still need to be doing what we can to keep these costs as low as possible. Things like increasing security, reviewing how many miles you drive or adjusting your excess could bring your overall cost down. But it’s important to remember that the information you’re providing should be accurate otherwise you risk invalidating your policy if you need to make a claim.

“Ultimately, shopping around is the only way to know you’re paying the cheapest price available to you. With prices so high, it’s a very competitive market. So if you look around, there’s likely to be an insurer out there willing to offer a cheaper price.

“We’re so certain that we offer a guarantee to beat your renewal, or pay you the difference, plus £20(2). In this scenario, you not only get the best price, but you also get more cash. So there’s nothing to lose and lots to be gained.”

How young drivers can save in 2024

2023 was particularly harsh on young drivers, with premiums soaring by over 50% as the cost-of-living pressures took effect.

The sky-high cost of learning to drive combined with these higher insurance premiums and new emissions costs for older cars, are all making it a struggle for young drivers to get on the roads.

Data shows the average car insurance premium for young 18-year-old drivers increased to £1207 in 2023.

The experts at Quotezone.co.uk have revealed ten savings hacks to help young drivers give their finances a fresh start for the new year.

One of the most important things for young drivers is to be safe and avoid penalty points, a fifth of convicted drivers in the UK have been driving for a year or less – according to a sample of over 15,000 convicted drivers, analysed by Quotezone.co.uk.

Penalty points on a licence may not only result in a steep fine but will also bump up the insurance costs. Drivers can expect premiums to rise by 5% for three points and 25% for six points if they’re starting from a clean licence.

Young drivers or those with penalty points may be able to get cheaper insurance by opting for a telematics policy, or black box insurance.

Black box insurance starts collecting data on their driving immediately, if they’re a safe driver, this can help the insurer see them as less of a risk and may result in a more competitive price. Although, like all premiums this year, prices are on the rise, in 2023 telematics was still able to save young drivers an average of £75 annually.

Age group 18-24	NO telematics	YES telematics
2021	£1199	£938
2022	£1047	£1050
2023	£1230	£1155

Quotezone.co.uk CEO Greg Wilson said: “Young drivers had a tough 2023 with delays to driving tests and backlogs for lessons plus the rising cost of everything associated with motoring – insurance, repairs, fuel – we’re hoping 2024 is a much better and cheaper year for those new to the road.

“There are lots of things young drivers can do to help bring the cost of driving down, from knowing how to avoid even the most unusual fines and penalty points to installing a black box and keeping modifications and mileage to a minimum.

“We’re researched the top 10 ways we think will help young drivers save in 2024 along with the essentials such as shopping around and comparing product details, annual payments if possible and reviewing when exactly is the best time to buy, normally three weeks before the policy is due for renewal is the most competitive.

“Passing your test and taking to the road for the first time is a rite of passage and it would be worrying if new drivers started to struggle to make driving a reality due to cost, hopefully our money saving tips go some way to making a more affordable 2024.”

Quotezone.co.uk’s Top ten hacks that could help young drivers save:

1. Do check your mileage

When taking out insurance, you will be asked to estimate your annual mileage. The costs will rise in incremental bands so the more miles you drive, the more you pay so try to be accurate and realistic with your prediction.

2. Do park in a safe place

Car owners that make use of their garages, driveways or carports for overnight parking could make big savings on their car insurance – parking on driveways rather than on the road can save you over £140 on average every year and carports could save you even more, with £230 savings on average.

3. Do consider switching to a smaller engine

Be sure to check your vehicle’s engine size and horsepower, both can impact the cost of your premium. Also, some small engines are turbocharged and that can give them more power than might be expected, which will likely cause the premium to increase.

4. Do keep modifications to a minimum

It comes as no surprise that adding a custom exhaust or putting in lowered suspension might cause insurance premiums to rise, but even seemingly innocuous changes such as adding branding to a vehicle can affect the cost.

5. Do consider a black box

A telematics policy, or black box insurance – starts collecting driving data immediately, this can help the insurer with their risk analysis, safer driving increases the chances of a competitive price for young drivers.

6. Don’t over pack the vehicle

Packing items above the seat line will impair vision, while heavy loads are likely to affect a car’s handling and stopping distances. Overloading a car past its capacity is a punishable offence, with a fine of up to £300 and 3 points. Driving without full visibility out all windows is also punishable and could result in a £50 fixed penalty.

7. Don’t forget your sunglasses

Sunglasses are labelled with a ranking from zero to four in order to determine their strength and the time of day they can be worn. The average pair of sunglasses is categorised as a number two – these are recommended for daytime driving. Driving with inappropriate eyewear could be detrimental to other road users, leaving drivers unable to detect dangers. Motorists could be hit with a £100 on-the-spot fine and up to three penalty points for driving without due care or attention.

8. Don’t use the wrong fuel

Misfuelling is one of the most expensive mistakes motorists make. Pumping diesel fuel into a petrol car can lead to engine failure, leaving motorists to pick up the maintenance costs. Rule 97 of the Highway Code states before drivers set off, they should ensure they have ‘sufficient fuel or charge for your journey, especially if it includes motorway driving’. Careless or dangerous driving caused by low fuel will see motorists face fines of up to £100 and three points on their license.

9. Don’t leave the car switched on while waiting for friends

‘Idling’ or leaving the engine running unnecessarily while stationary on a public road goes against Section 42 of the Road Traffic Act. Drivers risk a £20 penalty notice that will double if not paid in full within 28 days. According to research conducted by Quotezone.co.uk, almost 11% of drivers fail to turn off their engines while waiting.**

10. Don’t splash pedestrians

Splashing pedestrians is actually illegal under section three of the Road Traffic Act, 1988 – and is considered to be driving ‘without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road’ – resulting in a fine of £100 and three penalty points on the licence, in some cases, fines can reach as much as £5,000 for driving without reasonable consideration for others on the road.

Quotezone.co.uk can help if you’re looking for learner drivers or young drivers insurance. If you live in Northern Ireland, CompareNI.com can help.

RAC calls for government action on headlight glare

Eight-in-10 drivers affected say problem is getting worse

A glaring problem: RAC calls for government action on headlight glare as eight-in-10 drivers affected say the problem is getting worse …

The RAC is calling on the Government to commission an independent study into the issue of headlight glare after new research found 85% of those affected believe the problem is getting worse.*

An RAC survey of 2,000 drivers found a huge nine-in-10 (89%) think at least some headlights on cars on the road today are too bright, of which three-in-10 (28%) – a higher proportion than ever – think most are. Of the all these drivers who complain about the brightness of car headlights, some 91% say they get dazzled when driving with three-quarters (74%) saying this happens regularly.

When it comes to the effects of glare on drivers, two-in-three (67%) who suffer say they have to slow down considerably until they can see clearly again, while a similar proportion (64%) believe some headlights are so bright they risk causing accidents. In fact, five per cent of these drivers state they have nearly been involved in a collision themselves.

Alarmingly, nearly one-in-10 (7%) say they find headlight glare so bad that they avoid driving at night altogether, a figure that rises to 14% for drivers aged 65 and over.

While the RAC has been surveying drivers on dazzling headlights since 2018, these new findings show more drivers than ever appear to be suffering from them, with 85% of those affected stating they believe the problem is getting worse.

As part of its study, the RAC asked drivers to estimate how long it takes them to see clearly again after getting dazzled by other drivers’ lights. While 68% say it takes between one and five seconds, one-in-10 (11%) say it takes six or more – which, staggeringly, is enough for a driver travelling at 60mph to cover 160 metres, the equivalent of 40 car lengths.

The reasons drivers perceive headlight glare to be such an issue are less clear, although an overwhelming 87% of dazzled drivers think it is mainly due to the fact some lights just appear much brighter.

This could be as a result of the increasing prevalence of cars fitted with LED headlights, leading to a much more intense and focused beam that the human eye reacts differently to, compared to a conventional ‘yellower’ halogen bulb. While LED headlights are great for improving a driver’s view of the road ahead, this can be to the detriment of other road users who encounter them.

However, more than four-in-10 (44%) think the dazzling is caused by badly aligned headlights. A Freedom of Information request submitted to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) in November 2023 shows that since 2019, an average of 1.6m, or 5%, of Class 4 vehicles – which includes passenger cars – failed their MOTs as a result of poor headlight aim.**

What’s more, with the DVSA stating in 2016 that ‘headlamp aim consistently tops the MOT compliance survey as one of the most likely items to be assessed incorrectly by testers’, the actual figure could be much higher.***

The increasing popularity of cars that sit higher on the road, especially SUVs, may also be a factor with those in conventional cars such as hatchbacks, saloons or estates suffering the most. Six-in-10 drivers (62%) of conventional cars blame the dazzling on higher vehicles, whereas only 35% of those in higher vehicles point the finger similarly sized vehicles.

But whatever the cause or causes of headlight glare, it is clear how strongly drivers feel about the issue with 81% saying more should be done to tackle it – a figure that rises to 87% among drivers aged 45 to 54.

Government collision statistics shows that since 2013, there has been an average of 280 collisions a year where dazzling headlights were a contributory factor. Of these, six a year involved someone losing their life. The actual number may be higher if an investigation was unable to determine whether or not a collision was directly or indirectly caused by the glare from another vehicle’s headlights.

As a result of the sentiment among drivers, the RAC has raised the issue of headlight glare with the Department for Transport and has been working with a member of the House of Lords, Baroness Hayter, to make drivers’ concerns known among Government officials.

The RAC provided details of its research to go into a report published last week and will be meeting with the Government this month to discuss it.

RAC spokesman Rod Dennis said: “Our figures suggest drivers are more concerned than ever about headlight glare, with a huge proportion wanting to see something done about it.

“We urgently need the Government to take a closer look at the issue, ideally by commissioning an independent study to understand what’s causing an increase in reports of dazzling and, most importantly, what can do be done to keep drivers safe.

“With spring still a long way off, there’s a good chance many people will do most of their driving in darkness over the next few months and, according to our research, that means an awful lot of drivers will experience the discomfort and even danger that comes from being dazzled by headlights.

“On the one hand, brighter headlights can be a good thing as they give drivers a clearer and safer view of the road view of the road, but that appears to come at a cost for those on the receiving end of excessively bright lights.

“The numbers of reported road casualties where headlight glare was listed as a contributing factor might be small when compared to something like speeding, but that only tells part of the story. Is it right we have such a high proportion of drivers who feel unsafe when they’re driving at night, with some having even given up night-time trips altogether?”

Mike Bowen, Director of Knowledge and Research at the College of Optometrists, said: “The results from this research by the RAC are helpful to inform our understanding of how changes in vehicle headlight technologies may be affecting both the functional vision of young and older drivers, and their visual comfort, when driving at night.

“Older drivers are likely to be disproportionately affected by headlight glare, so may be more likely to experience difficulties or to decide not to drive at night at all.

“We urge the Government to commission more technical and clinical research to have a better understanding of this issue and what should be done to ease the effects of dazzling headlights.”

Baroness Hayter said: “The RAC has demonstrated that some car headlights can dazzle, causing a danger for oncoming drivers. We know drivers in other countries share this concern.

“So, government should take action now to be on the side of road safety and ensure everyone keeps to the Highway Code, which states drivers ‘must not use any lights in a way which would dazzle other road users’.”

IAM RoadSmart Director of Policy and Standards Nicholas Lyes said: “Drivers are increasingly telling us they are concerned by modern headlights and some are now even limiting the amount of time they spend driving during darkness to avoid glare.

“Being dazzled by a headlight has a worrying impact on road safety and we need policymakers to take this matter seriously.”

Dealing with glare – what to do if you find you’re getting dazzled

Always use your rear-view mirror properly at night. Some newer cars have self-dimming rear-view mirrors that can reduce dazzle from vehicles behind – if you’re changing your car soon, look for one that has such a mirror fitted. But most drivers still need to manually adjust their mirrors in the dark to reduce glare. About half the drivers surveyed by the RAC who reported getting dazzled said they do so at night (54%).
Speak to your optometrist. Just 6% of drivers told the RAC they’d talked to their optician about glare. For those who wear glasses, a glare-minimising coating can help – something a quarter (25%) of affected drivers said they are benefitting from.

New campaign encourages drivers over 60 to get their eyes examined

The Scottish Government and Road Safety Scotland have launched a new campaign encouraging older drivers to consider their driving habits and have a free regular NHS eye examination so they can continue driving safely. 

With recent stats showing 29 per cent of car driver casualties killed or seriously injured in road collisions were over 60¹, the Fitness to Drive campaign highlights that eyesight can affect the way we drive as we get older and calls for anyone over 60 to have their eyes examined regularly, or as soon as they notice a change.

It’s common for drivers to adapt their driving behaviour as they get older, for example, by not driving at night or on busier roads to avoid the glare from oncoming traffic, or by driving shorter distances. These adaptations often happen gradually and can be a sign of deteriorating vision.

Janet Pooley, Chief Optometric Adviser, said: “As we get older, we can experience changes to our eyesight, including blurred vision, a reduced visual field and less accuracy when it comes to judging distances, which impact our ability to drive safely.

“The best way to make sure your eyes are healthy is to have them examined regularly and to visit your local optometrist if you notice any problems with your eyesight.

“As well as detecting changes in your eyesight, an NHS eye examination can pick up age-related eye conditions like cataracts and glaucoma, and it can identify and help prevent other health conditions like blood issues and diabetes, which can also affect driving.”

The campaign reminds drivers that changes in your eyesight don’t have to mean giving up driving and that your local optometrist can often correct your vision with new glasses.

Janet Pooley, Chief Optometric Adviser, continued: “In some cases your optometrist might advise that you require surgery to improve your vision if you have a condition like cataracts. Outstanding surgical results often enable people to continue to drive safely for many years.”

In addition to eyesight, other age-related factors can also affect our fitness to drive, such as high blood pressure, medication, and slower reaction times.

Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead for when they do choose to give up driving and consider alternatives for getting around without a car, including public transport and getting help from family members and friends.

Minister for Transport Fiona Hyslop said: “Changes in our eyesight is something we’re all affected by as we get older, and with Scotland’s population continuing to age, it’s particularly important to ensure we all stay safe on the road.

“We’re encouraging everyone in this age group to get their eyes checked regularly to make sure they are fit to drive.”

Age Scotland’s Big Survey 2023² shows driving is the most common way to get around among over 60s, with 72% of respondents saying this is the mode of transportation they use most.

Katherine Crawford, CEO of Age Scotland, said: “We know driving is hugely important to older people and plays a big part in their ability to stay active, mobile and independent.

“This campaign is a good reminder for older drivers to get their eyes examined regularly or, if they notice a change in their eyesight, to make sure they have the best vision for driving safely.”

Betty Gilchrist said: “I’m not as confident at driving as I once was, particularly at junctions where I take a bit more time now.

“Driving in the dark has also become more challenging. The glare from headlights can be dazzling, so I’m reluctant to drive in the evenings and I stick to short journeys on local roads.

“It’s important to have regular eye exams as we get older and our vision changes. Many of us also develop conditions like cataracts which can be picked up at an eye exam and treated to keep us driving for longer.”

Derek MacPherson said: “As I’ve aged, I’ve become more aware of my eyesight changing and how that affects my driving. I’m now less likely to drive long journeys or drive at night, when the glare from other cars and streetlights can make it harder to see.

“Getting my eyes checked by the optometrist is quick and easy, and knowing my eyesight is up to scratch helps me stay confident on the road so I can keep enjoying the freedom of driving.”

The campaign will also address family and friends who may be initiating discussions about driving with their loved ones, which can be a sensitive subject. 

For more information about the campaign or how to book a free NHS eye examination, go to roadsafety.scot.

Follow Road Safety Scotland Facebook and X (formerly known as Twitter) (@roadsafetyscot) pages for more details.

Money-Saving Pre-MOT Checks

A Guide to Avoiding Unnecessary Expenses

An MOT test doesn’t just assess the roadworthiness of your vehicle; it can also be an unexpected source of expenses if you’re not prepared.

With guidance from seasoned mechanic Dom Shaw from First Vehicle Leasing, we’ve put together 5 crucial checks you can perform before your MOT test. These tips are designed not only to increase the likelihood of passing but also to save you money by avoiding common and often costly pitfalls.

1. DIY Light and Indicator Checks

Start with a simple but effective check of all your vehicle’s lights and indicators. This is one of the easiest DIY fixes that can prevent an MOT failure. Replacing a bulb is significantly cheaper than failing and retaking the MOT, or worse, being charged an inflated price for a bulb replacement at the garage.

2. Tyre Condition and Tread Depth

Tyres are a major focus in an MOT. Check the tread depth to ensure it meets the 1.6mm legal minimum. Additionally, look for any damage or wear. Knowing the condition of your tires can prevent a garage from convincing you to buy new ones prematurely, saving you a significant amount of money.

3. Brake Performance Self-Check

Listen to your brakes; any unusual noise can indicate wear. Replacing brake pads or discs before your MOT can be more cost-effective than dealing with it as part of a failure. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to shop around for the best deal on parts and service, rather than being at the mercy of the MOT testing garage’s pricing.

4. Windscreen and Wiper Inspection

Ensure your windscreen is free of significant damage, and that your wipers are functioning well. Replacing wiper blades yourself is generally cheaper than having them replaced during an MOT test. Also, a windscreen clean and clear of damage will not only help pass the MOT but also prevent costly windscreen replacements.

5. Emissions and Exhaust System Check

A pre-MOT emissions check, particularly for older cars, can save you from failing due to high emissions. Addressing issues with your exhaust system beforehand can be more economical than having the work done during or after an MOT, where urgent repair costs can escalate.

Dom Shaw from First Vehicle Leasing says: An MOT test can be an opportunity to ensure your vehicle is in top condition, but it shouldn’t become a source of unexpected expenses.

“By performing these pre-MOT checks, you can identify and address issues more economically, and enter your MOT test with confidence.”

Volkswagen tops UK sales for third year running

162,087 new Volkswagen cars registered in the UK in 2023
8.52-per-cent market share makes Volkswagen the UK’s best-selling new-car brand
Brand preparing to enter additional market segments with new models in 2024

Volkswagen is the UK’s best-selling new-car brand for the third year running, as confirmed by figures released today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

A total of 162,087 new Volkswagen passenger vehicles were registered in the UK in 2023 – over 30,000 more than in 2022. This equated to a leading market share of 8.52 per cent – an increase of 0.35 per cent compared with the previous year.

Volkswagen was again one of the most popular electric brands in the UK, with two of its ID. models among the top-10 best-selling EVs in 2023: the ID.3 with 10,295 registrations (sixth place) and the ID.4 with 8,495 registrations (ninth place).

Model highlights from 2023 that contributed to these impressive results included the revised all-electric ID.3, ID.4 and ID.5 models, as well as the refreshed flagship Touareg. Special- and limited-edition models were also introduced, including the Polo GTI Edition 25 and Golf Black Edition, while the expanded Volkswagen Live Tour continued to take the showroom experience to people’s living rooms, offering real-time online vehicle presentations with product experts.

The brand will bolster its EV offering in 2024 with the introduction of the ID.7 and ID.7 Tourer, while other highlights on the horizon include celebrations to mark the iconic Golf’s 50th anniversary, and the introduction of the new Tiguan and Passat.

Rod McLeod, Director of Volkswagen UK, said: “I am once again pleased that Volkswagen has secured top spot in the UK for new-car sales. This tremendous result speaks volumes for the quality and attractiveness of our cars, and for the fantastic work of our network partners, who continue to give customers outstanding service before, during and after delivering their new cars.

“This year we will continue to expand our award-winning ID. range of electric cars, and of course we have the 50th anniversary of the Golf as well as many more exciting new products to look forward to.”

Water safety charity issues warning as floods continue to pose a risk to life

The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) is issuing safety advice as people take risks as severe floods continue to cause disruption

As Storm Henk continues to affect large parts of the UK and causes ongoing severe weather conditions, there have been an increasing number of incidents reported involving driving through and entering flood water.

The media has also reported incidents of people falling on slippery banks into open water, with these events sadly resulting in the loss of lives; including three male victims named in North Yorkshire and one woman in Scotland.

With the increase in number of weather-related accidents, there have also been hundreds of rescues as emergency services have been enlisted to help navigate the stormy conditions.

And with harsh weather set to continue and more serious flood warnings expected, safety around floodwater could mean the difference between life and death.

Due to the hazardous weather conditions, RLSS UK is urging people to use its water safety advice in a flood:

RLSS UK’s quick advice tips for staying safe during times of flooding:

Never try to walk or drive through floodwater – six inches of fast flowing water can knock an adult over and two feet of water will float a car.
Never try to swim through fast flowing water or flood water – you may get swept away or be struck or caught up in an object in the water. If stuck, call 999 and wait for help.
If you see someone in trouble in the water – do not go in yourself to attempt to rescue them – shout for help, call 999, and find a nearby rescue device such as a life buoy. If there is no water rescue equipment nearby – try and find something that floats and throw it to them if possible.
Get to the highest level if trapped in a building – only get on the roof if necessary and signal for help. Do not climb into a closed attic to avoid getting trapped by rising floodwater.
Keep an eye on weather reports for flooding in your area. Do not travel in heavy rainstorms unless necessary.
Once flood water has rescinded stay well clear of the water’s edge as it is likely to be extremely slippery and prone to erosion in places.

Drivers: Prepare well for New Year journeys

With New Year celebrations taking place over the next few days and many travelling across the country for festivities it’s important drivers feel prepared for their journey.

Richard Evans, head of technical services at webuyanycar comments: “As the year draws to a close, many may be driving to celebrate the new year with friends and family across the country.

“The roads are likely to be very busy and many will be doing all they can to make sure they arrive safely to their festivities. Our research shows that 38% of drivers travel by car during bank holidays, and with the new year the last one of the year many are likely to be getting ready to celebrate.

“For those that have plans to travel throughout the holidays, there are some important things to stay aware of to make the journey as easy as possible.

“Forward planning can help drivers to avoid congested roads or peak travel times, which can in turn help with reducing their fuel consumption.

“Drivers should also check their tyre pressure and oil levels to avoid any unnecessary stops or breakdowns along their way.

“It’s important to stay mindful of driving by taking breaks when needed and making sure to be well rested. Our tips for travelling will ensure drivers are ready to get around to New Year celebrations safely.”