M&S Money Urges Drivers to Make Car Security a Priority This Summer
M&S Money is urging drivers to make car security a priority this summer following the results of a new survey that revealed more than half of UK motorists have been the victim of car crime.

LONDON, ENGLAND, August 14, 2010 /24-7PressRelease/ -- M&S Money has revealed a new survey that reveals thousands of drivers are risking invalidating car insurance claims by failing to make vehicle security a priority.

The poll* found that more than half (56%) of UK motorists have been victims of car crime - 12% of car owners have experienced maliciously damaged paintwork, 8% have had a windscreen smashed and 8% of motorists have been victims of theft of personal belongings from their car.

While 60% of car owners have an alarm installed in their vehicle, many risk invalidating car insurance claims by failing to activate the alarm when the vehicle is unattended.

The survey found that 40% of Brits do not always use their car's security system. A further 12% of motorists never use their security facilities, while nearly half of people (43%) admitted to having left their cars unlocked.

The M&S Car Insurance policy states that when a vehicle is unattended drivers must ensure the car is locked, windows are closed, any security system activated and any keyless entry systems removed.

In July the 2010 British Car Crime Survey** announced that car crime had dropped by 17% in comparison to last year.

Andrew Ferguson, M&S Head of General Insurance, said: "It is good to hear that car crime is falling, however it is always important to make sure vehicles are locked and secure. During the summer months, many drivers unwind windows and leave roofs open - it's important to make sure the vehicle is secure when unattended, especially as failure to do so could invalidate any insurance claim.

"If the worst should happen and a car is broken into, M&S Car Insurance can help cover the cost of damage and loss of personal belongings. We insure up to GBP200 for theft of personal belongings and up to GBP500 if these are items are bought from M&S."

Press Release Contact Information:

Simon Coughlin
M&S Money
Media Relations Manager
8 Canada Square, Canary Wharf
London, England
United Kingdom E14 5HQ
Voice: 020 7992 1574
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