Motoring convictions could drive holes in your pockets

Motorists convicted of alcohol, speeding or mobile phone-related driving offences will feel the heat on their motor insurance premiums - and that's if an insurer will cover them at all, says moneysupermarket.com.

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 48 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 add £2,300 on average to the cost of their premium over this period.

Steve Sweeney, head of motor insurance at moneysupermarket.com, said: "The rules of the road are there for a reason, especially when it comes to drink-driving. Motorists who consume alcohol before getting behind the wheel 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. It's not surprising that insurers take such a harsh view of those caught driving under the influence.

"Any increase in the price of your premium will be dependent on the severity of your conviction but finding yourself uninsurable or facing unaffordable insurance prices as a result must be 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 really 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 around five per cent, and by almost 20 per cent the second time round. Three strikes though and motorists could see an increase of 33 per cent - or nearly £150 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 - £383 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 Privilege at £473 a year; an increase of 24 per cent.

Steve Sweeney 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 and act as a deterrent for this behaviour. My advice is to take care on the roads at all times and think responsibly about the potential consequences of your actions."