Rising car insurance premiums are pushing some UK drivers to misrepresent information on their applications, with three in 10 admitting to “stretching the truth” to secure lower premiums, according to recent research by The Green Insurer. The study also highlighted common misrepresentations, especially around annual mileage, as drivers feel the financial burden of increased insurance costs.
The data shows that reducing annual mileage figures is the most frequent misrepresentation, with 63% of those who admitted to inaccuracies saying they understated their mileage. Other commonly misstated facts include claiming a vehicle is parked in a secure garage (16%), denying the vehicle is used for work (10%), and listing a lower-risk occupation (8%).
|
Misstatement |
Percentage of respondents |
|---|---|
|
Slightly reduced annual mileage |
43% |
|
Significantly reduced annual mileage |
20% |
|
Claimed car was parked in a garage |
16% |
|
Car not used for work |
10% |
|
Lied about occupation |
8% |
|
Omitted a previous claim |
7% |
|
Registered insurance under a cheaper driver |
6% |
|
Claimed car has immobiliser |
5% |
|
Claimed advanced driver training |
4% |
The study highlighted the impact of rising insurance premiums, with two-thirds of motorists reporting that they felt the effects of premium hikes. Of those affected, 79% have actively searched for the lowest rates. Others have adjusted their coverage, including increasing deductibles or removing add-ons such as no-claims protection.
In a statement, Paul Baxter, CEO of The Green Insurer, emphasised the importance of providing accurate information when applying for car insurance. “We would always advise motorists to be truthful,” he said. “Misrepresentation of the facts, however minor they may seem, is never a good idea as it can result in policies being invalidated or claims being denied in the event of an accident occurring.”
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