Sorry comes too easy to motorists

Three quarters of motorists would apologise if they had an accident – yet that can be construed as admitting fault in the eyes of an insurance company.

November is the month when most vehicle insurance claims occur.

esure, the online insurance company, is urging vehicle owners to check that they are aware of their responsibilities to other road users in the event of an accident. They have found that seven per cent of claimants are so shaken up that they forget to exchange contact and insurance details, for example.

Mike Pickard, head of risk and underwriting at esure, says: "As more wintry weather affects driving conditions and daylight hours shrink this month, the likelihood of being involved in a car accident is at its peak.

"Being prepared for the unexpected is crucial. Knowing what to do and what not to do in the event of an accident will help making an insurance claim as hassle-free as possible."

esure suggests keeping a hand-held mobile charger in the vehicle to ensure that you have a working mobile phone. They point out that road users have a responsibility to get help for any accident casualties.

esure also suggests keeping a disposable camera in the car, or using a mobile phone camera, to take photographs at the scene of an accident.

Dealing with an accident properly is even more vital for caravan owners, who could sustain damage to not only their car, but also their mobile home and any possessions contained in it.

08/11/2007 13:49:51