Motorists to save on insurance

Britain’s motorists are being told that they can make big savings by shopping around for their car insurance.

Recent figures show that the cost of owning a car is growing all the time, with Zurich recently putting the figure at an average of £1,766.62 per car, per year.

The increased price of petrol and road taxes during the latest Budget have added to these costs and many drivers are being forced to change their habits.

American Express carried out a survey of British motorists and found that 15 per cent have started driving less as a result of increased fuel prices.

In addition, ten per cent have bought a more economical car, while one per cent uses public transport more often.

However, American Express says that many drivers could save themselves a packet by shopping around for their car insurance.

“The cost of motoring seems to rise year on year and whilst there is little motorists can do to cut the cost of fuel or road tax, insurance is one area where real savings can be made,” commented Joanne Field, marketing manager for the firm.

Those looking for car insurance are advised to shop around for the deal that best suits their needs, compare similar policies and protect their no claims bonus once a deal is agreed.

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Travellers told to pack sensibly

We are being warned not to take too many valuables with us as we set off on our holidays.

The warning comes from American Express Travel Insurance which claims many of us run the risk of losing a host of valuable items every time we go abroad.

The firm is urging holidaymakers to think before they pack and make sure that they are not taking items which have a combined total higher than that which their travel insurance covers.

“It is… important to consider the accumulative value of items. Our recent survey results4 reveal nearly half [43 per cent] of respondents had packed clothing, jewellery and watches worth more than £250,” said Joanne Field from American Express.

“Many travellers do not read their policy terms and conditions before travelling and are unaware that insurers impose a single item limit and a valuables total limit.”

American Express’ words of warning come as new excess baggage policies are due to be introduced at airports around the UK.

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