MANCHESTER, UNITED KINGDOM--(Marketwire - April 25, 2011) - Swinton is warning motorists about the dangers of coasting as an increase of drivers are travelling in neutral in attempt to conserve fuel and save on soaring petrol prices.
Swinton, the UK's leading high street retailer of car insurance surveyed 1,200 motorists and found that 27% of motorists are coasting in a conscious attempt to preserve fuel and that 19% of motorists do not consider coasting to be potentially hazardous.
Swinton motor insurance is reminding drivers of how coasting- travelling in neutral or with the clutch pressed down -reduces driver safety control for numerous reasons
Steering response will be affected particularly on bends and corners
Vehicle speed downhill will increase rapidly
Increased use of the footbrake can reduce its effectiveness
It may be more difficult to select the appropriate gear when needed
There has also been a rise in motorists not using air conditioning and electrics i.e. car lights in an attempt to save on fuel. The survey revealed that 17% of motorists will open a window instead of using air conditioning, while 8% have stopped listening to the radio in the car.
Steve Chelton, Insurance Development Manager at Swinton Car Insurance said: "We're concerned that motorists are sacrificing safety in an attempt to save on fuel costs. The cost of getting into an accident, which could then lead to a car Insurance claim, is definitely greater than whatever marginal savings in fuel costs you will get from coasting or not using your car lights."
About Swinton
With 603 branches nationwide Swinton is the UK's largest high street insurance retailer
Unlike many other companies in the financial services industry, Swinton is committed to keeping its branches open for business, and part of the community
Swinton provides a one-stop-shop for the insurance and related needs of its clients, offering home, car, caravan, business, holiday, motorbike and even classic car insurance
With a dedicated team of advisors on hand at every branch to search a panel of insurers to offer quality cover at competitive rates