Insurance companies 'charging more for winter tyres'

[dutchman]

Some motorists who fit winter tyres to their car to cope with snow are being charged higher insurance premiums, it has been claimed.



AA Insurance Services says some people have been told to pay up to 20% more.

Winter tyres should be much safer in the snow, but some insurers have been counting them as a modification to the manufacturer's specifications.

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) says that is a mistake and premiums should not be higher.

The AA's Ian Crowder said in some cases insurers were even refusing to offer cover if winter tyres were fitted.

The mistake is being blamed on insurance company call centres, where not all staff may be aware of the safety implications.