Insurers crack down on mobile abuse

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Convicted motorists will pay more insurance
Mobile phone use now same as careless driving
Average premium would rise £208 a year

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Motorists caught using mobile phones while driving could have their insurance premiums increased by up to one-third.

Allianz Insurance now treats it the same as a careless driving offence, and other insurers are expected to follow.

Previously, Allianz dealt with hand-held mobile phone convictions as if they were a routine speeding conviction, which incurred three penalty points.

According to the AA, the average motor insurance policy is £629, so if premiums do go up by a third, those convicted of driving while using a mobile phone face an average rise of £208 a year for their policy.

It has been illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving since December 2003.

The charge is now a £60 fine and three penalty points. However, it is not illegal to use a hands-free phone when driving.