Britons' car neglect 'highlights need for auto insurance'
Car owners who have avoided spending money on their vehicles in recent months must have auto insurance to prepare for the worst this winter, the Post Office claims.
Auto insurance should be at the forefront of Britons' minds as the winter weather draws in, according to a new report released today (December 17th).The Post Office conducted a study which found that 48 per cent of car owners have neglected their vehicles to an extent this year in an attempt to tighten their purse strings.
Almost a third of respondents (30 per cent) admitted that they have not had a minor scratch, dent or other cosmetic fault repaired, with 13 per cent letting tyres wear down more than normal.
In addition, 12 per cent said they have turned a blind eye to squeaking and rattling noises, while eight per cent have not replaced poor windscreen wipers and seven per cent have ignored dashboard warning lights.
The report even suggested that six per cent of Britons have opted against forking out to fix an 'advisory' problem flagged up in an MOT test.
However, Richard Pennant-Jones, head of car insurance at the Post Office, explained that plummeting temperatures will make driving conditions awkward and could see owners ultimately falling victim to their thriftiness.
"With heavy snow forecast in parts of the UK, car owners who have tried to save a few pounds in recent months by ignoring warning lights or failing to get their car serviced are putting themselves and others at risk," he said.
"Failing to maintain your car could even result in it being deemed un-roadworthy and therefore invalidate your insurance."
Mr Pennant-Jones also advised motorists to ensure that they have breakdown cover as an additional element to their auto insurance in light of the upcoming winter months.
Last week, a study by moneysupermarket.com suggested that Scottish drivers receive the most affordable car insurance deals.
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