Car insurance has become surplus to requirements for some people during the current credit crunch. With the cost of fuel constantly rising and the new Vehicle Excise Duty levels rising over the next twelve months, a rising number of people are despite the legal requirements are avoiding taking out car insurance.

Driving without insurance is against the law and those who are found guilty can face penalties that far outweigh the cost of insuring your car. Other drivers also have to foot the bill for uninsured drivers costing insured drivers around half a billion, meaning on average uninsured drivers add around £30 per insurance policy.

"There is no question that driving without insurance is both unlawful and ill-advised," according to RIAS Managing Director Janet Connor. She continues to advise those worried about the cost of car insurance "if you are worried about the cost of insurance, it is worth talking to your insurance provider to check whether there are any savings to be made. We advise customers to ensure they ask about discounts and flexible payment plans when they call for a quote."

The important thing to remember is that whatever the cost of your car insurance may be, it will be a lot cheaper than the fines given for driving uninsured.