Over 11 million British motorists would make a fraudulent claim to avoid jeopardising their insurance claim, according to Moneysupermarket.

The survey asked motorists what they would do if they had failed to secure their car properly and it was stolen. Just over a third said they would tell their insurer the truth, but another 33% would keep it from their insurer. The remaining 31% of motorists sat on the fence, not knowing if they would come clean.

Richard Mason, director of insurance at Moneysupermarket, said: “It seems many British motorists are ready to cover up their own carelessness, which could have led to the claim for the stolen car in the first place.

“You may think telling a little white lie, or holding back the whole truth is no cause for concern, but if your claim is as a result of your own wrongdoing, then insurers are likely to see it as fraudulent. If claims are regularly being paid out to drivers who don’t deserve it, the honest motorist loses out and could see future premiums increase.

“I urge all drivers to tell the full truth, but even more importantly, secure their cars. Providers may well refuse to cover you in the future, if you are found out, scuppering your chances of driving altogether.”

The research found men are more likely to cover up, with 39% reluctant to own up to their carelessness compared to 26% of women. The Scots are the most honest with 42% saying they would tell all, compared with 33% of those from the North of England.

Mason added: “It appears men are more concerned about retaining their status symbol, and ensuring a payout for their motor, as they are more likely to be economical with the truth compared with women. Insurers are often seen as the bad guys, but there are two sides to any relationship and drivers need to come clean about their mistakes.”

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