Staysure advises against 2 year MOTs

New schedule may lead to higher premiums

20th July 2011

Staysure.co.uk, the UK’s fastest growing provider of insurance and financial services for over 50s, has joined the ranks of those advising the government against a change to the frequency of MOTs. Although reducing the frequency of testing will mean instant savings for motorists, Staysure warns that it may lead to higher insurance premiums before long.

Analysts have predicted that a change to bi-annual MOTs for cars older than 4 years could also result in a further 30 deaths on British roads annually.

Jon Kirk, general manager of Staysure’s Home & Motor division, said: “Put simply, MOTs ensure that cars are roadworthy; and safer cars make for fewer accidents and generally lower insurance premiums for us all. Many drivers follow conscientious maintenance programmes for their cars, but many of the issues detected in an MOT just can’t be spotted by non- mechanics.”

He continued: “Whilst it’s true that advances in engineering have made motoring much safer these days, there is still a strong argument for an annual MOT for cars 3 years old or more. At the very least, it encourages a mentality where drivers think about the road-worthiness of their vehicle.”

Staysure advises its clients to ensure the following five checks are performed on a regular basis, and particularly before any long trips:

1. Lights: check all your indicators and lights are in good working order (you can use shop windows and reflections to help)
2. Fluid levels: water, oil and windscreen washer (even in summer)
3. Full stop: try an emergency stop in an empty supermarket car park and seek immediate attention from your garage if there is a problem
4. Tyres: tyre pressure and tread need to meet minimum standards to be legal and safe - and don’t forget your spare
5. First Aid: it’s not legally required but a good idea to have a first aid kit as well as some drinking water, a torch and a blanket.

Ends

Notes to editors – www.staysure.co.uk

Staysure.co.uk Ltd is officially the UK’s fastest growing insurance and financial services provider offering a range of highly competitive products and services specifically for people aged over 50. Founded in 2004, the company was ranked 8th position in The Sunday Times Fast Track 100, published in December 2010.

The company’s travel insurance division offers a comprehensive range of policies at competitive prices and the company has insured over one million travellers. The quick and easy online buying process provides a quote after just one step and Staysure’s policies automatically include cover for 220 minor medical conditions; however, medical screening is available both online and over the phone to cover more serious conditions including cancer.

Staysure’s extensive range of insurance products includes health, life, home and car Insurance policies from some of the most trusted providers such as AVIVA, PruHealth, AXA BUPA, Legal and General and more. Staysure also offers funeral plans which can be standalone or combined with life insurance products.

In addition, Staysure’s expat service provides car, home, travel, private medical insurance, funeral plans and insurance for holiday homes in the UK and throughout Europe. The specialised range of products are tailored specifically for expats aged over 50, so they too can enjoy the same competitively priced comprehensive products abroad and discuss their requirement face to face in Staysure’s retail shop in San Pedro, Spain.

Staysure.co.uk Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA). Registered No. 436804