Motorists in certain parts of Northern Ireland are facing significant increases in car repair costs, according to new data from CompareNI.com. The survey of 1,000 drivers also found that over 60% felt they had been overcharged for repairs.
The analysis looked at accident data and repair costs across each district council area. Mid Ulster was identified as the worst affected, with average repair costs rising by 78% in the past year. Mid and East Antrim and Lisburn & Castlereagh also saw significant increases.
This rise in repair costs has a knock-on effect on car insurance premiums. Drivers involved in accidents across Northern Ireland have seen their insurance costs jump by 29% on average over the past year.
To avoid higher insurance premiums, nearly a quarter of drivers (23%) reported paying for repairs themselves after an accident, choosing to protect their no-claims bonus.
The data shows Belfast has the highest number of accident claims and the highest average repair cost at £7,387. This translates to an average car insurance cost of £1,068 for Belfast drivers involved in accidents – a 23% rise compared to last year.
Fermanagh & Omagh had the lowest number of accident claims and the lowest average insurance cost of £863.
Source: Northern Ireland World
