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Speeding by young drivers on Britain’s empty roads has soared during lockdown – and they could face losing their insurance as a result.
The number of drivers aged under 25 caught going over the speed limit increased by a sixth since lockdown started, compared to normal levels, according to Co-Op Insurance.
It also revealed there has been a spike in the number of "red alerts", which indicate that a driver was going so far over the speed limit that they would have been given an automatic driving ban if spotted by police.
The research came from the insurer’s telematics data, which are taken using black boxes and apps that monitor driving behaviour as part of the cover. These allow insurers to track driving habits, such as how fast they take corners, how they brake and whether they are observing the speed limit.
Those who do not drive safely and who consistently speed may see their insurance premiums increase and could even have their policies cancelled as a result. Those who stick to the rules, meanwhile, are rewarded with a reduction in their premiums.
Co-op, alongside road safety charity Brake, is contacting more than 20,000 young policyholders to warn them of the dangers of speeding.
Joshua Harris of the charity said: “Speeding at any time is selfish and dangerous. It increases the risk of a serious crash and blights communities, and so these findings are deeply concerning.
“Lockdown has made roads much quieter, but this does not mean speeding is acceptable – far from it. With families using roads for daily exercise, and some stepping off pavements to adhere to social distancing, drivers need to be extra vigilant.”
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