A report released by RIAS states that drivers in particular "are feeling the pinch" in terms of managing money, with the cost of fuel continuing to rise. Meanwhile, the specialist insurance provider pointed out that the recent announcement of new vehicle excise duty bands - which are set to come into effect next year - could also place drivers spending under greater strain. It was stated that for those driving a family saloon car, vehicle tax may rise by some 200 pounds. And although it might prove a tempting option for some, the firm urged those looking to cut costs not to avoid getting cover, as this is not only illegal but can also result in a deepening financial burden for law-abiding drivers.

The firm reported that overall, motorists with cover are paying more than 500 million pounds each year to subsidize those drivers who purposefully flout the law. This is the equivalent of a 30 pound increase per policy, it was stated.

When combined with other motoring expenses, such as rising petrol and tax prices, those finding that their cover costs are also increasing as a result of insurance dodgers might discover owning a vehicle is an evermore heavy financial burden. This might mean other areas of monetary constraint - such as loans, credit and store cards, utility bills and mortgage repayments - become more difficult to manage.

The case against avoiding paying for car insurance was again signified as it was reported motorists flouting the law are likely to be caught. It was indicated more than 150,000 vehicles were seized by the police over the course of last year as a result of not having cover. Such a figure is the equivalent of one automobile being apprehended every three minutes.

Commenting on the research, Janet Connor, managing director of RIAS, said: "There is no question that driving without insurance is both unlawful and ill-advised. 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."

Ms Connor went on to report that it may be possible for consumers who keep their vehicle in a garage or parked off-road will benefit from lower car insurance costs. Discounts might also be available, the RIAS director stated, for those motorists with a low mileage.

People on the lookout for a car, whether it is a top of the range Mercedes-Benz or a second-hand Ford Fiesta, might wish to get a low cost loan. In doing this, consumers may well find that they are able to purchase a vehicle quickly and be left with an affordable rate of repayment to make each month. The financial assistance such a loan offers could also help borrowers to take out comprehensive cover. Getting insurance could be particularly recommended for those going on a foreign road trip, after a study by Sainsburys Car Insurance showed that without first getting adequate insurance people may find that they are left with an expensive repair bill in the event of an accident.