Insurance News Car Insurance Could Be Cheaper For Joshuas Than Jameses

Written by Editorial Team

22 May 2008 / by Joy Tibbs

Names have always been considered important in terms of identifying people, but few people would have seen the significance of a person’s name when it comes to applying for car insurance.

However, according to Confused.com, some of the most popular names in the UK could be charged more for car insurance car insurance because they are more likely to have driving convictions. It claims that although James and William are among the top 10 most popular boy’s names for babies, these names could eventually work against them.

Nearly one in five Jameses and Williamses (17 per cent and 16 per cent, respectively) have driving convictions, while just nine per cent of Joshuas – ranked the fourth most popular name – and six per cent of Alfies – ranked tenth – had been convicted of a driving offence.

When it comes to girls, the majority proved more careful than their male counterparts. Despite this, Ellas – the ninth most popular girl’s name – were the most likely to have a driving conviction (11 per cent), while just six per cent of Chloes have been on the wrong side of the law when it comes to driving.

Managing director at Confused.com, Debra Williams, said: “Recent Confused.com research found that men are almost three times more likely to be convicted of driving offences than women – a fact reflected in our most up-to-date research which shows that Williams and James are the most reckless drivers.

“However, while dangerous and careless driving has safety implications, gaining points on your licence also has a detrimental effect on your insurance premiums. On average, a driver with three points will see premiums leap seven per cent, rising to 25 per cent for six points and 50 per cent for nine points; and the number of insurers willing to insure a driver with nine points can halve.”

©Fair Investment Company Ltd