Research from whatcar.com shows that 7 out of 10 motorists don't trust black boxes to lower their insurance premiums by proving they are a safer driver, and fewer than 2 out of 5 people would choose an insurance policy which features the technology.
Black boxes or 'telematics' as it otherwise known, are used by insurance companies to record driving habits, often rewarding good habits with lower premiums. This is an attractive prospect for someone who wants to bring their insurance bill down, such as a young or new driver. Also if the car is stolen it can be tracked so it adds peace of mind.
The system is designed to encourage safer driving but the research shows that 89% of drivers would only opt to adopt the system purely to safe money rather than becoming a safer driver. However, only 39% of drivers would actually opt for a telematics insurance policy. 67% of drivers feel telematics would not be sufficient to prove they are a good driver. I would tend to agree with that because driving slower doesn't necessarily make you a better driver.
I would by no means say I am a boy racer but even so, I would not like the idea of knowing my driving is being monitored. I also attend track days now and then - in fact I'm doing one next week - so telematics would be inconvenient as I would need to get the system deactivated so the insurance firm don't think I'm having an extended joy drive.
Whatcar.com’s editorial director, Jim Holder, said: “Black boxes do encourage safer driving up to a point, but it is also fair to say that it’s often the safest young drivers who choose to have telematics in their car – they would be safe drivers anyway.
“And, while it works to save money for some drivers, it’s important to remember that premiums can go up as well as down based on feedback from the telematics.”
What are your views on telematics? Are they up your street or would they drive you crazy?