A car insurance firm has revealed a report which indicated that British motorists face lower accident risks than many of their European counterparts.

The group looked at drivers in 10 nations for safe driver behaviour, with the UK coming second only to Ireland.

The study found that Brits are less likely than residents of other European nations to drive without a seatbelt or to use a mobile phone while on the road.

In addition, less than one in 20 (4%) UK motorists said they had driven while under the influence of alcohol, compared with a European average of 21%.

Chris Voller, head of motor claims at the company, said: “These findings [go] against the image of the binge drinking Brit and we are delighted to see that, at least when it comes to driving, we show some abstinence.

“For the small percentage of people who do drink and drive, they should be aware that once they start driving again, having a conviction will seriously affect their chances of getting cover.”