Lower taxes for safer drivers?

Monday, October 10, 2005

Almost 30 per cent of drivers support the idea that the safest road users should pay limited tax.

The findings are part of research by Privilege Insurance of over 2,500 people into motor insurance related matters.

The idea would see road tax all but ruled out for the safest drivers, with drivers who have had an accident in the last four years those likely to foot the bill.

"Safe drivers, who have had four or more years of claim free motoring, clearly feel penalised by the current road tax system which sees them contribute to covering the cost of accidents which they have neither caused or been involved in," said Ian Parker, managing director.

"While the practical implications of drivers' views will need to be examined in more detail by the government and a tax reduction is just one possible approach, it does seem that more could be done to reward safe drivers."

This latest comment from Privelege follows recent suggestions from Saga that insurance premiums should be adjusted to benefit the over 50s.

Road safety minister Stephen Ladyman announced amendments to the Road Safety Bill, which have sparked much recent debate, at the end of last month.