Experts are warning drivers about the severe consequences of breaking car insurance laws. Those caught participating in “fronting,” a fraudulent practice, could face an unlimited fine and even have their vehicle seized.
Fronting, as explained by experts, involves an experienced driver falsely declaring themselves as the primary driver for a vehicle that is mainly used by a less experienced driver, often a younger person. This deceptive move is aimed at reducing insurance premiums, as younger drivers typically face higher costs. A recent survey revealed that over a third of parents have admitted to using fronting to get cheaper insurance deals.
Tom Banks, a motoring expert at Go.Compare, highlighted that with the rising costs of getting on the road, it’s understandable that families look for ways to save money. However, he emphasized that deliberately misrepresenting the main driver on an insurance policy constitutes fronting, which is an illegal offense that can void the policy and result in severe penalties, including hefty fines or a criminal record.
According to the Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB), motorists found guilty of such practices may have their vehicles seized and could face a court appearance, leading to driving bans and unlimited fines. Additionally, in more serious cases, drivers may receive a criminal conviction and be held liable for all costs associated with a road collision. The IFB further revealed that, each week, around 50 drivers are added to the Insurance Fraud Register, a database shared with the insurance industry, thereby making it difficult for them to secure insurance policies in the future.
Shelley Comb, intelligence and investigations manager at the IFB, noted that fronting is “surprisingly common,” with thousands of young people and their parents “implicating themselves in insurance fraud and uninsured driving, which has devastating consequences.” Comb advises anyone unsure about the policyholder’s identity to consult their insurer.
The IFB estimates that fronting on insurance applications costs the industry over £1 billion annually, and tackling this issue is a “key priority.”
Go.Compare suggests potential ways to save money on car insurance, such as focusing on core coverage rather than adding extra features that increase costs and purchasing insurance on the renewal date to potentially avoid higher charges.
