Not cleaning out car 'makes driving costly'

Date: 16/3/2011

Britons have been advised to give the inside of their vehicles a spring clean.

According to Churchill Car Insurance, carrying unnecessary items inside a car simply adds to its weight, which, in turn, makes it more expensive to drive due to the additional fuel required to power it.

Tony Chilcott, Head of the cover provider, said: "Not only could it be an inconvenience if you were to breakdown or have an accident, the extra weight you are carrying around will [also] use more fuel. With petrol prices hitting an all-time high, this will make every journey more expensive."

And there are other reasons why Britons should clear out their cars, with the firm noting that any clutter may prove to be a hazard should a driver need to brake suddenly.

In addition, objects on the floor of the vehicle - such as bottles - may pose a risk if they roll under the pedals.

Britons who plan to take their car on the continent may wish to get rid of some of their clutter in order to make room for a few essentials, with Mondial Assistance noting that in some countries, it is illegal not to carry a warning sign.

Posted by Sarah Bailey