INACCURATE INSURANCE
More than half of price comparison quotes contain errors that leave drivers at risk
More than half of car insurance quotes from price comparison sites contain errors, according to consumer body Which?
Sixty per cent of policies examined by which? contained inconsistencies that could leave drivers without the cover they need or think they’re buying.
With the Competition and Markets Authority finding that 85 per cent of internet users have used price comparison sites, Which? said it was concerned that millions of consumers were not getting a clear picture from the websites they visit and at risk of buying policies that don’t meet their needs.
Which? cross-checked policy descriptions for 21 brands across four price comparison sites against the information provided on insurance brands’ own websites and in policy documents. It found for six in ten policies at least one detail published on the price comparison site was different to that posted in policy documents.
Among the errors were comparison sites that said a courtesy car was guaranteed during repairs whereas the policy document made no such guarantee.
Which? also found sites quoting personal injury cover at twice the level offered in the insurer’ s documents and incorrect information about cover for situations such as lost or stolen keys and sunroof cover.
Harry Rose, Which? Money Editor said :“We were staggered to see such a high amount of errors across the policies listed on price comparison sites. Millions of consumers visit these websites, hoping to find all the information they need to make an informed decision in one place – yet our findings cast real doubt on their ability to do so.
“These sites should up their game to ensure customers know exactly what they’re purchasing and from whom, otherwise they might well end up with policies and contracts that simply don’t meet their needs.”
Responding to the study, severalprice comparison sites said that they relied on the insurers to provide up-to-date accurate information.
Compare The Market said: “We work with our providers and check that the information provided is accurate. If we discover any discrepancies, this is promptly addressed.”
Gocompare explained that it carries out: “We rely on partners to keep us updated with any changes. We’ll be reviewing our processes to ensure the highest levels of accuracy.
Moneysupermarket told Which ?:“all the insurance providerswe work with have to provide Money supermarket with information on any changes to their level of cover. In addition, every car insurance brand that can quote on our site is audited on a regular basis. ”
And Confused.com said: “Insurance policy documents can be incredibly complex. We’re constantly reviewing how policy information is displayed to our customers and value the feedback provided.”