Although it may save them money in the short term, those drivers which look to cut corners on car costs could be placing themselves under even greater financial pressure.

Such is the assertion of comparethemarket, which reports that although the current economic decline is seeing many people looking to reduce their savings wherever possible, attempting to claw back expenditure on certain areas, in particular related to their car, may not only leave people with a bigger financial headache but could also be dangerous and against the law. One area this was revealed to be done was through fronting.

This, the price comparison website, indicates, is when a person listed as the main motorist on an insurance premium for a car is in fact only a secondary driver. As an example, it was claimed that by listing a parent as the major motorist on a policy can result in lower costs if in fact the cover has been taken out on a car of which someone under the age of 25 is the main driver.

And pointing towards a recent study the firm commissioned YouGov to carry out, it was shown that about a quarter of Britons claim that they have fronted as a means of lowering the amount of money they pay on their car insurance.

However, it was reported that it is important for those policyholders who claim to be the main driver when in actuality they are not “to understand the dangers of what they are doing”. Although comparethemarket reported that fronting in itself is not a criminal offence, it can result in a policy being voided. As such, if they need to make a claim such motorists were reminded that their insurance provider would not make a payout and in turn may lead them to face thousands of pounds in potential costs. In addition, a driver will be classed as being insured, something which is illegal.

Following on from increased insurance costs, those consumers found guilty of fronting could find that they struggle to manage other expenses related to motoring. This may mean that making payments for repairs, servicing and MOT becomes a more arduous task. Furthermore, such problems with money management could extend to personal loans, mortgages, utility bills and credit cards.

The study also revealed that although 31 per cent of Britons state to be aware that they run the risk of their claim being rejected if caught fronting, about one in six 18 to 24-year-olds claim to be undeterred from making such a fraudulent move.

Commenting on the figures, Jeremy Moll, insurance expert at comparethemarket, said: “Culprits of fronting mainly include young drivers or those who have just passed their driving test as they can save themselves a bit of money. However, this has the risk of your claims being refused and you being prosecuted for driving without insurance which could lead to a fine and penalty points and in some cases being disqualified from driving. It also prevents you from building up your own no claims bonus and prevents you from lowering your own insurance premium, which can cost you more in the long run.”

Those on the search for a new set of wheels – whether it is a Lamborghini, Lexus or Lada – might want to consider applying for a car loan. In taking out such a loan, motoring enthusiasts may find that they can get their dream vehicle quickly, leaving them with an affordable rate of monthly repayments. The financial assistance on hand with such a loan could also see them be able to pay for other motoring-related expenses – such as comprehensive insurance, MOT and repairs – with relative ease and without having to resort to illegal or unscrupulous tactics. Meanwhile, research carried out by Tesco Personal Finance indicated that the end of last month may have seen some 400,000 drivers hit with more expensive repair bills following the expiration of their car warranty policy. It was also revealed that an estimated 45 million pounds is set to be spent on everyday vehicle repair costs during the coming 12 months.

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