Cash strapped drivers refuse to cut corners on cover

New research reveals that cash strapped drivers are doing everything they can to maintain their insurance perks. In fact, most would rather change the way they drive than compromise on their cover.

The survey by leading comparison site Gocompare.com found that close to 70 per cent of consumers have compared prices on car insurance products over the last year.  But while drivers were looking for savings, most want the same level of cover - for a cheaper price

The majority of those surveyed are looking to maintain valuable extras such as breakdown cover and a courtesy car:

97 per cent would not switch from fully comprehensive cover to third party cover in order to reduce their premium.

Only 6 per cent of drivers say they would consider not renewing their breakdown cover to save money.

90 per cent would not choose a higher policy excess in order to reduce their premium.

Only one in ten drivers would consider doing without a free courtesy car if it reduced their car insurance premium. 

Only 2 per cent of drivers say they have considered driving without insurance. 

The survey also revealed that over 43 per cent of Brits say they are trying to use their car less as a way of saving money, while more still are trying to change their driving style to reduce petrol consumption.

More than four in ten say they now change gear more frequently to try and avoid revving the engine, while over half of drivers say they are consciously slowing down more gradually as they approach roundabouts and junctions.  Thirty six per cent of drivers say they try to drive at the most fuel efficient speed for their car.

Lee Griffin of Gocompare.com, said: "Car insurance premiums are at an all time high, but that doesn't mean drivers have to give up valuable cover to keep costs down. By shopping around it is often possible to get the cover you want for a lower premium because each insurer will take a different view of you as a risk so, you may well be able to buy a cheaper policy without compromising the level of cover.