NFU highlights cost of test drive accidents for dealerships

New research has revealed that dealerships pay an average of £8,185 every year for repairs to cars damaged during test drives.

According to a study carried out by NFU Mutual, 30% of those surveyed said vehicles had been damaged during test drives in the last 12 months.

It found that average repairs costs ranged between £5,000 and £10,000. Meanwhile, nine per cent put the cost of repairs sustained during test drives at £50,000.

Zoe Knight, head of commercial at NFU Mutual, said: “Our research has found a large number of motor trade businesses are having to spend or claim for thousands of pounds arising from incidents happening during those test drives.

“Our figures show how expensive test drives can prove to be – with an average cost of £8,000 per incident. We’ve heard examples of some vehicles being written off and instances where businesses have suffered 10 crashes a year, so it is vital businesses check their cover to feel safe and secure.”

But while vehicle damage during test drives is costing dealerships, it is not the most common cause of damage.

Criminals attempting break-ins was identified as the number one factor by 44% of respondents, with 42% citing vandalism.