After analysing quote data from a number of van drivers, Swinton Vans has found that, a drivers’ insurance quote can double as a result of using their mobile behind the wheel.

In one such instance, one motorist found that their quote shot up by nearly £1,500 from an initial quote of £1,147.60 – a 128% increase as a result of their dial and drive conviction.

Swinton Vans has put together the following table taken from this quote data, to outline the stark difference between insurance quotes before and after a conviction. 

In light of this research, Swinton Vans is warning van drivers –@PREVIEWEND@ in particular those small business owners who use their van as part of their day-to-day trade, such as plumbers, gardeners and electricians – to take care when using a mobile phone on the road, making sure they pull over at a safe and appropriate time in order to take calls or send text messages or emails.

By doing so, drivers will significantly decrease their chances of being hit by heightened insurance premiums.

It has also been reported that some insurers can now refuse cover for drivers with just a single conviction for using their mobile while driving, despite the fact that the penalty is similar to that of a speeding conviction.

Phil Moss, Commercial Vehicle manager at Swinton Van Insurance, said: 'For many van owners, their van is their livelihood, so it is especially important that they consider the risks associated with driving while using a mobile phone.

'We would like to advise all van drivers to consider safety first – namely making sure that should they need to take a call, they find a safe place to stop and pull over before doing so. As we can see from this new research, the impact on your van insurance can be drastic, so it is vital that drivers consider this when taking calls on the road,' he added.