Being a ‘SADDO' could drive a huge hole in your pocket

Speeding or drink-driving motorists will face hefty penalties on their motor insurance premiums. According to moneysupermarket.com, being a ‘SADDO' - a ‘Speeding and Drink-Drive Offender' could mean drivers risk being blacklisted by certain insurers all together.

DRINK-DRIVING - THE INSURANCE PRICE HIKE

Motorists found driving, or attempting to drive, whilst under the influence of alcohol (penalty code DR10) can expect their annual premiums to rise by over 91 per cent on average. Some insurers will not even return a quote to insure a previously convicted drink-driver.

Not only could ‘boozy' motorists face a year long ban from the roads, but the DR10 conviction will remain on their licence for 11 years, and could therefore add £5,200 on average to the cost of their premium over this period.

Andy Leadbetter managing director of insurance at moneysupermarket.com said: "The rules of the road are there for a reason, especially when it comes to drink-driving. Motorists who get in a car having consumed alcohol will find that their reaction times, co-ordination and judgement will be impaired - making them a danger not only to themselves but also to other motorists and pedestrians too. It's therefore no wonder insurers take such a harsh view of those caught behind the wheel under the influence.

"Of course, the price you pay will be dependent on the severity of your conviction but finding yourself uninsurable or facing unmanageable insurance premiums as a result is surely something most motorists could do without; especially alongside a £1000 fine, 12 month ban and a possible prison sentence. Surely getting in the driving seat after drinking just isn't worth it. "

SPEEDING AND MOBILE USE - THE PRICE HIKES

Insurers will also frown heavily upon motorists caught speeding. One conviction will typically raise premiums by almost ten per cent, and by almost 30 per cent the second time round. Three strikes though and motorists could see an increase of 83 per cent - or over £350 a year.

The story is similar for ‘mobile-mad' Brits. Popular insurers such as Swiftcover will provide competitive cover for a motorist with a clean licence - £389 a year - but will not provide a quote for the same person caught using a mobile behind the wheel. For those drivers, the next most competitive option is from esure at £465 a year; an increase of 20 per cent.

Andy Leadbetter, continued: "Unfortunately we are a nation of mobile lovers but it is unsurprising insurers take a stern view - just as they do with those caught speeding. Exceeding the speed limit or diverting your attention from the road for a text or call can be catastrophic, and it is clear the ramifications for convicted motorists are intended to hit wallets hard. My advice is to take care on the roads at all times and think responsibly about the potential consequences of your actions."