Research among motorists by price comparison site
moneysupermarket.com found millions of drivers would flout the law to
ensure their payout1.
The survey asked motorists what they would do if they had failed to secure their car properly and it was stolen. Just over a third (36 per cent) said they would tell their insurer the truth, but another one in three (33 per cent) would keep it from their insurer. Thirty one per cent of motorists however would be found sitting on the fence, not knowing if they would come clean.
Richard Mason, director of insurance at moneysupermarket.com, said: "It seems many British motorists are ready to cover up their own carelessness, which could have led to the claim for the stolen car in the first place.
"You may think telling a little white lie, or holding back the whole truth is no cause for concern, but if your claim is as a result of your own wrong-doing, then insurers are likely to see it as fraudulent. If claims are regularly being paid out to drivers who don't deserve it, the honest motorist loses out and could see future premiums increase.
"I urge all drivers to tell the full truth, but even more importantly, secure their cars. Providers may well refuse to cover you in the future, if you are found out, scuppering your chances of driving altogether."
The research found men are more likely to cover up, with 39 per cent reluctant to own up to their carelessness compared to 26 per cent of women. The Scots are the most honest with 42 per cent saying they would tell all, compared with 33 per cent of those from the North of England.
Richard Mason added: "It appears men are more concerned about retaining their status symbol, and ensuring a payout for their motor, as they are more likely to be economical with the truth compared with women. Insurers are often seen as the bad guys, but there are two sides to any relationship and drivers need to come clean about their mistakes."
1 Opinium Research LLP surveyed 1404 adult drivers online in February 2008. Data is weighted to be representative of UK Adults. Further statistics are available on request.
Based on the latest DVLA figures of 34.7 million motorists.