Insurer Calls Time on Mobile Users
by Alex Gregory
We've all heard the warnings about using our mobile phones behind the wheel - get caught and you'll be hit with three penalty points and a £60 fine. However, the number of people using handheld phones while driving still leapt by 42 per cent in 2007.
Now however, there's another incentive to stay off the phone - to keep your car insurance premiums down.
Car insurance provider Allianz has become the first in the UK to specifically raise premiums for motorists who are convicted of using their mobile phones while driving. Whereas the insurer previously treated the three points on the license as being the equivalent of a speeding conviction, it will now drive up premiums by 30 per cent - that's the same increase given to those with dangerous driving convictions.
According to research younger drivers are the most likely to commit the offense - those aged 18-34 are caught twice as much as those aged over 55. However, it is hoped this harsh penalty will get the message across that mobile phone use simply won't be tolerated.
It's with good reason too. Car insurance companies face added risks when drivers use mobile phones as they are four times as likely to be involved in an accident. The Department of Transport's Think! Campaign states that reaction times are 50 per cent slower while using a mobile phone.
So drivers who don't want to throw away their no-claims discount on an avoidable insurance claim, and who don't want to face increased premiums, should pack their phones into the glove box. If you can't cope without your mobile phone then use a handheld device or find a safe stopping place before answering calls.
Apr 16, 2008
Insurer Calls Time on Mobile Users
