Breaking road rules 'could increase insurance by 50%'
Car fleet operators which have drivers who are caught speeding, using a mobile phone or having had a drink before driving could face severe hikes to their insurance bill, it has been noted.
Research from consumer website moneysupermarket.com has found that the average driver will see a 48 per cent increase in the cost of insuring a vehicle if they are convicted of driving, or attempting to drive, while over the limit.
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. It's not surprising that insurers take such a harsh view of those caught driving under the influence."
Car fleet operators already in need of cost cutting measures in the light of the recession may need to take steps to enforce rules to car fleet drivers to ensure they do not end up raising the cost of insurance for the company.
