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New Research Reveals 1 in 5 are Victims of 'Bump and Runs'

New research reveals that one in five motorists have had their cars damaged by someone who drove off without admitting liability.
Finance - 26 March 2010   Download IconContent available for download:  
Audio | Interview with Chris Weeks, Head of Accident Repairs at Direct Line| Login to Download

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  News Hooks:

New research reveals that one fifth (20%) of motorists have had their car hit by someone who left the scene without leaving their insurance details over the past five years. The average cost of a ‘bump and run’ is £540 but a tenth of victims are left with damages costing in excess of £1000.

Only 54% of drivers would definitely take responsibility if they hit an unattended car, despite it being illegal to drive away. 4% of people admit to having hit a car and driving off, 39% look to shift the blame to the victim on the basis of bad parking.

Of those responsible for a ‘bump and run’ who left the scene, 33% did not inform the victim because there were no witnesses whilst 7% admitted being drunk at the time and 2% were under the influence of drugs.

. Introduction:

New research reveals that one in five motorists have had their cars damaged by someone who drove off without admitting liability for the accident or leaving their details. Most frequently this occurs in supermarket and shopping centre car parks, making a day out expensive. The average cost of repairs is £540 and despite it being illegal to drive away, only 54% of us would definitely take responsibility if we hit an unattended car. Believing the owner has parked badly or there being no witnesses rank highly in the reasons for our unwillingness to take responsibility for our actions. Worryingly, being drunk is another key reason for not stopping.

So, why are motorists breaking the law instead of providing their insurance details?

Joining us in the studio is Chris Weeks Head of Accident Repairs at Direct Line.

. Suggested Questions:

What does the research show about the level of car damage in our area?

Where do ‘bump and run’ accidents most commonly happen in our region?

Why are people reluctant to take responsibility for damaging other people’s vehicles?

What are the implications for the victims of ‘bump and run’ accidents?

What type of damage is most commonly caused by these kinds of accidents?

Where can we find out more information?