Comparison Site Satisfaction under 50% and Women want their own garages

NCD News: Comparison Site Satisfaction under 50% and Women want their own garages - 20.11.09

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Go Compare Comparison Site Satisfaction under 50% and Women want their own garages: >>>> Which? Money have completed the first ever survey of comparison sites and found that these sites have the lowest average customer satisfaction score of any financial service. None reached higher than 50%. 21% of people expressed a lack of trust in the sites and many believed that commission was a factor in the options presented to them. 25% said they had found cheaper quotes elsewhere and more than half still bought direct from the provider even after searching on a comparison site. The most popular sites were Moneysupermarket.com, Confused.com and Gocompare.com.

>>>> Women's car insurance provider Diamond, has released research which has shown that female drivers would like to be able to take their car to a woman only garage, due to the patronising and intimidating attitude of the usual male dominated garage. According to their research, 70% of women know how to carry out basic checks on their cars, but those aged between 19 and 25 felt unsure about taking their car to a mechanic. Those over 55 felt the most confident. Diamond do offer women a Best Friend Garage Network with all of their policies, which looks after all the dealings with garages on their behalf.

>>>> A survey of 1280 commercial customers by Swinton has found that 74% still have fully comprehensive motor insurance despite the recession. Just 20% have downgraded to third party. Swinton is warning van drivers that downgrading to third party may seem like an attractive option, however in the long run it can cost significantly more should they be involved in an accident. They suggest talking to an insurance broker regarding the effects of downgrading a policy.

>>>> The Queen's Speech on Wednesday announced legislation to license wheel clamping businesses. There will also be a limit to the amount of penalties which can be charged, more regulation on towing away and an appeals process will be put in place. The RAC have said they are pleased the Government has stood by it's word to change the law in this area. The AA have pointed out that more detail is needed on the appeals process and the level of fines.

The Queen's Speech has also included a new Financial Services Bill which will supposedly offer better consumer protection, plus the promise of better flood defences. The ABI has expressed concerns that the changes to the FSA's powers are being rushed through without proper consultation. The ABI do welcome the new flood management overhaul and believe it is crucial to ensure that everyone has access to flood insurance. Direct Line's managing director has expressed caution, as there are only 33 legislative days left before the election. He has said that the insurance industry is happy to play it's part when it comes to flood management.

>>>> With this week being Anti-bullying Week (?), drivers are being warned not to bully. Lancashire Country Council's Road Safety Group Manager, Neil Cunliffe has said that the way we react to other drivers is the key to safe roads for everyone. They give the advice to keep to a safe distance, smile and thank drivers who are considerate and try not to react to inconsiderate drivers. Research from the RAC has shown that one third of drivers get angry behind the wheel at least three times a week.

>>>> Legal & General have improved their Mortgage Decreasing Term Assurance product to offer a range of interest rates. The product assures mortgage debt, decreasing as the mortgage is repaid. Customers and brokers can now decide on the interest rates which suits their needs, depending on the level of cover and the risk they are willing to take.

>>>> A motion in Parliament to give compensation to hundreds of Tyneside workers affected by pleural plaques has now run out of time. A private members bill which was put before parliament failed to make it through the Lords before the end of the Parliamentary session last week. Campaigners are hopeful a scheme for compensation can be worked out before the next election, as they fear a new Government may not make it a priority. The current Government have said they are focusing on giving compensation to those affected by asbestos related cancer. Pleural plaques may turn into lung disease, but are otherwise without symptoms.

>>>> A poll by The Cooperative Insurance with Brake, has shown that new drivers often drive in a reckless and illegal manner. The AA have commented on the research saying that new drivers will often drive in a "ridiculous fashion" regardless of their age due to the novelty of having a car. They felt that adjusting the age of those new to driving up from 17 would have little impact on the overall style of driving. †