Direct Line's new no discount protection

Commenting on the launch of Direct Line's no claims discount protection for vandalism victims, Richard Mason, director of insurance at price comparison site moneysupermarket.com, said: "Direct Line is playing a sneaky game by promising there will be no impact on your no claims discount if you make a claim against an act of vandalism.

"When renewing your car insurance and getting quotes from other insurers though, you will need to declare any claims you have made in the past three years."This protection effectively encourages customers to claim for minor damage, however when renewing, this will bring your premium up by 15 to 20 per cent with other insurers. The alternative is to remain a Direct Line customer for another three years, and with the possibility of it increasing its premiums, you could be locked into a lose-lose situation."