Drivers face car insurance being invalid over mistake 'one in four' make

Drivers face car insurance being invalid over mistake 'one in four' make
-Credit:Reach Publishing Services Limited


A quarter of drivers have left car running unattended to de-ice windscreen - putting them at risk of invalidated insurance. Most insurance policies do not cover thefts of vehicles which were unlocked or unattended with the engine running.

Insurer Aviva, which commissioned the poll, warned 19 per cent of those surveyed said they have left their car unlocked while popping into somewhere quickly. One in five of respondents admitted driving without their windscreen being fully clear of snow, ice or debris, while the same proportion said they have driven through floodwater or a ford.

Aviva motor claims manager Martin Smith said: “Never leave your car unattended with the engine on or keys in the ignition either. If you do, you might not be able to claim on your insurance in the unfortunate event your car is stolen.

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“All drivers are legally required to ensure their vehicle is roadworthy, which includes keeping windscreens, mirrors and numberplates free from snow, leaves, debris, ice and dirt. While we all want to reach our destinations quickly, safety should come first, especially as the risk of accidents tends to increase during periods of adverse weather.”

The survey of 1,520 UK drivers was carried out by research company Censuswide in October 2024. It comes as the Met Office issues three fresh weather warnings which take place in the UK on January 8 and January 9, lasting until 11.59pm.

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Stefan Laeger, Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, said: “The recent heavy rain combined with melting snow means it is probable significant river flooding will continue in Leicestershire today, with minor river flooding probable in some other parts of the country, continuing through to Thursday for some larger rivers.

“Environment Agency teams continue to be out on the ground, operating flood defences, taking action to reduce the impact of flooding, issuing flood warnings and supporting those communities affected. We urge people to remain vigilant over the next few days and advise anyone travelling to be especially careful and urge people to stay away from swollen rivers and not to drive through flood water as just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car."