Experts are warning drivers to be aware of common habits which could see them invalidate their insurance, with millions potentially at risk.
New research has found that 42 per cent of drivers across the UK use hanging air fresheners in their vehicles as standard.
While the air fresheners are there to make the vehicle smell nice, insurers can view the products as a risk and lead to issues for motorists.
In the event of a car insurance claim, insurers can take several factors into account, including whether anything was distracting the driver and whether this had an impact on the accident.
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Experts have urged drivers to ensure they are being safe when behind the wheel
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Hanging air fresheners can block a small or large part of a driver’s view out of the windscreen. Larger products, like novelty dice, could lead to motorists having a poor view of the road ahead.
Other potentially distracting objects for motorists include food and drink, changing a CD or even someone doing their makeup, all of which can affect the outcome of their claim.
Tom Banks, car insurance expert at Go.Compare, urged drivers to do all they can to avoid distractions where possible.
He added: “Many of us won’t think twice about hanging up an air freshener in the car, or tucking into a packet of crisps – but these kinds of activities can sometimes have an impact on our driving, and even our insurance.
“If you are involved in a road collision and it’s proven that you were distracted, your insurer could potentially refuse to pay out for your claim.
“So in the interests of road safety – and your wallet as well – stay focused on the road.”
Data from the comparison website also found that almost four in 10 people drink or snack while driving, while 13 per cent have admitted to changing a CD and a further seven per cent applying makeup.
Shockingly, 15 per cent of Britons admitted to using their mobile phones while driving, despite it being illegal and coming with a hefty found if found to be breaking road rules.
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In March 2022, the Government unveiled new rules to ensure that harsher punishments were introduced to deter people from using their phones behind the wheel.
Anyone caught using their handheld device while driving could face a staggering fine of up to £1,000, in addition to six points on their licence or a full driving ban.
This was paired with an £800,000 campaign for radios and social media to warn drivers of the new changes and the consequences they could face if they fall foul of the rules.
Banks called on motorists to put their phones in a place where they cannot easily retrieve them when they are driving to make sure they are not tempted or distracted.
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Drivers are advised to avoid having a hanging air freshener to prevent from being distracted
GO.COMPARE
He also suggested avoiding eating and drinking during the journey, as well as placing air fresheners away from the centre of the windscreen to avoid distractions.
Many drivers are now opting for air fresheners which can attach to their air vents to keep the car smelling good and to prevent from losing focus on the road.
Based in New York, Stephen Freeman is a Senior Editor at Trending Insurance News. Previously he has worked for Forbes and The Huffington Post. Steven is a graduate of Risk Management at the University of New York.