Rusty Drivers Causing Car Insurance Rises

Published Date: 30th Mar 2006

Car insurance firm Zurich has conducted research that suggests up to 335,000 road accidents in the UK could be down to motorists who take extended breaks from driving.

The study shows 32 per cent of drivers in the UK have gone long periods without getting behind the wheel, which causes a loss of confidence and can lead to trouble.

Female motorists admitted to suffering most from a lack of confidence. Forty-four per cent said they felt more intimidated after a break compared to 19 per cent of men, and almost a third of all drivers said they became more hesitant.

Zurich spokesperson Maria Wyatt said: "This research indicates that accidents caused by drivers that have had long breaks from the road are costing a huge sum in repairs and are consequently pushing up premiums."

"It also seems that the British public would like to see a new law enforced- one that re-tests motorists whose driving skills may have deteriorated due to their absence from the roads," she added.

According to the survey 62 per cent of UK driving license holders would welcome the introduction of such a change in the law and nearly nine in ten think that refresher lessons should be obligatory for those who have not driven for over a year.

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