Insurance Expert On Uninsured Drivers

Research by Moneysupermarket.com reveals that a fifth of motorists in Britain admit to driving without insurance - up by a third on 2008. The price comparison site also found that 62% of people feel that those who drive without insurance should be punished harder. Although 15% felt that the government or providers should subsidize young drivers, as a greater proportion of young people are likely to drive without insurance. Insurance expert and head of motor insurance at Moneysupermarket.com Steve Sweeney says:

Premiums can run into the thousands meaning they are out of reach for many drivers. However, I don't think harsher punishments are the right way to combat this. We need a solution, not more fines. Some car insurance providers had piloted a pay-as-you-drive insurance scheme which saw lower premiums for Britain's younger motorists. It also made them think twice about driving their cars unnecessarily. I would suggest it is time for the insurance industry to revisit these innovative models to help drive down the cost of insurance.

The Government could also take a look at driving tests and whether they should be changed to reflect actual driving habits. More lessons for younger drivers, the inclusion of motorway driving and lessons at night could reduce the underwriting risks associated with younger drivers.

Excerpted from www.which.co.uk.