Warning to drivers over ‘glove-box stashing'

Items most commonly left in the boot or glove-box include SatNavs (43 per cent), mobile phones (32 per cent) and wallets/purses (29 per cent).  But, the survey revealed that most drivers (72 per cent) don't know what cover they have for the things that they leave in their cars.

The research from comparison website, Gocompare.com found that glove-boxes contain on average £112 worth of goods and are a common hiding place for SatNavs (33 per cent), mobile phones (22 per cent) and wallets/purses (18 per cent) while the car is parked and unattended.

The findings also suggest that 18-24 year olds are 50 per cent more likely to leave valuables in their glove-box as those over the age of 45.

The average value of items left in car boots was £165, with contents ranging from SatNavs (10 per cent), mobile phones (9 per cent), wallets/purses (11 per cent) to lap tops (15 per cent), golf clubs/sporting equipment (20 per cent) and power tools (8 per cent).          

Lee Griffin from Gocompare.com commented, "Most of us own a range of highly portable and desirable gadgets which are small enough to stash in our glove-box or boot while we pop to the shops.  And it's all too easy to underestimate the value of the everyday items we carry around with us.  Our survey revealed that on average we store nearly £300 worth of belongings in our cars - but most drivers are unaware what cover, if any, they have if their possessions are damaged or stolen while left in their vehicle. 

"The purpose of car insurance is to give you financial protection for your vehicle, not the stuff you keep inside it.  As a consequence, cover for personal belongings is typically limited to fully comprehensive policies and restricted to around £100. Cover rarely extends to money or business goods or items not in a locked boot or other compartment.  Also, claims are usually paid on an indemnity basis - so if you do need to make a claim a deduction will be made for wear and tear."

Lee concluded, "We would suggest that drivers check the terms of their car insurance policy to make sure they understand what cover they have.  Finally, if you need to leave valuable items in your car, make sure they are out of sight and locked in the boot."