Millions of drivers risk having car insurance claims denied due to a common car feature
Experts are urging drivers to remember certain common habits that could unintentionally make their car insurance invalid. Millions of motorists may unknowingly put themselves at risk of having their claims denied due to these overlooked behaviours.
The risk
This marked an increase from the 1,599 ofRecent research reveals that 42 percent of drivers in the UK commonly use hanging air fresheners in their cars.
While these fresheners are intended to improve the vehicle’s scent, insurers may consider them a potential hazard, potentially causing complications for motorists.
When assessing a car insurance claim, insurers may consider various factors, including whether any distractions affected the driver and contributed to the accident.
Why is it a problem?
Hanging air fresheners can obstruct a portion of a driver’s view through the windscreen, ranging from small to significant areas. Larger items, such as novelty dice, may further impair a driver’s ability to clearly see the road ahead.
Other potential distractions for drivers include eating or drinking, changing a CD, or even applying makeup—all of which could influence the outcome of an insurance claim.
Tom Banks, a car insurance expert at Go.Compare, encouraged drivers to minimize distractions wherever possible.
He explained: “Many of us don’t think twice about hanging an air freshener in the car or snacking on a packet of crisps, but these activities can sometimes affect our driving and even impact our insurance.”
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The end goals
Another important recommendation for safe driving is to refrain from eating and drinking while traveling, as these activities can be distracting and reduce reaction times. Additionally, it is advised to position air fresheners away from the center of the windscreen, as they can obstruct visibility or divert attention, which might compromise road safety.
To address this, many drivers are opting for air fresheners designed to attach to air vents. These not only keep the car smelling fresh and pleasant but also ensure that the driver’s line of sight remains clear, helping them stay focused and attentive during their journey.
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