Experts are warning that drivers could face massive consequences if they break a crucial car insurance law, including an unlimited fine and even having their vehicle seized.
Drivers have been warned they risk serious punishment for participating in the car insurance fraud activity known as “fronting”.
The illegal practice sees a more experienced driver put themselves down as the main driver of a vehicle which will primarily be used by a new or younger driver.
The move would mean lower premium costs for younger drivers who are currently facing a plague of high fees for insurance.
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk
35 per cent of adults would use a fronting technique to lower insurance costsGETTYThe warning comes after more than a third of parents have admitted to fronting car insurance policies in a bid to get cheaper deals.
New research found that the highest number of fraud cases took place in the North West (36 per cent), followed by Yorkshire and the Humber (35 per cent) and London and South West, both coming in at 34 per cent.
Tom Banks, motoring expert at Go.Compare, said: “With the cost of getting on the road increasing again this year, it’s understandable that families are looking for ways to save money where they can.
“It might seem like a good idea to put a trusted parent or guardian as the main driver on your insurance policy, but if they aren’t the main driver this is fronting and is an illegal offence - it will likely void your policy and could result in a fine or criminal record.”
According to the Insurance Fraud Bureau, motorists caught fronting could have their vehicle seized, and potentially face a court appearance, where they could get a driving ban and an unlimited fine.
In more severe cases, drivers could be hit with a criminal conviction while also being liable to cover all costs if they cause a road collision.
Banks added: “It isn’t just the cost of insurance that is a major concern for parents either – 30 per cent said the cost of driving lessons is a big concern, while just over a quarter (26 per cent) said the cost of the car itself.”
He said the company “strongly discourages” the use of fronting with there being other legal ways to save money.
The IFB noted that fronting on insurance applications costs the sector over £1billion a year, with the bureau stating that tackling the issue is a “key priority” for the industry.
More drivers use fronting practices as insurance costs for young people reach soaring heights
PAOffering tips to young drivers, Go.Compare suggested only having add-ons available from key covers rather than paying for extras which can hike up the price. Another tip includes purchasing insurance on the same day it’s due for renewal rather than 26 days later which could result in a 55 per cent higher charge.
