As a car insurance expert, Alicia Hempsted from MoneySuperMarket has sounded the alarm on a serious form of insurance fraud known as 'fronting.' This practice, which involves claiming to be the primary driver on an insurance policy when in reality it's not you behind the wheel, can have significant consequences for young drivers and their families.

For those who are new to driving in the UK, especially in the first year or two after passing their test, car insurance premiums can be a significant burden. Research from MoneySuperMarket has revealed that teenage drivers aged 17 to 19 face premiums of £2,218 for men and £1,965 for women. While there are ways to bring down these costs, such as exploring telematics policies or adding a named driver, 'fronting' is not one of them.

'Fronting' is when an experienced driver claims they are the primary driver of a car, but in reality, a younger and less experienced driver is behind the wheel more often. This practice is considered a serious form of insurance fraud that can have severe consequences for those involved.

According to MoneySuperMarket, insurers view 'fronting' as a deliberate attempt to mislead them on the risks involved when insuring the vehicle. If caught, your policy would be invalid, and you risk facing a criminal record and even prison time depending on the severity of the case. Furthermore, you may also face being unable to get any form of insurance in the future.

"With insurance costs for young drivers reaching astronomical levels, it's understandable that parents are looking for ways to cut costs and help their children get on the road," said Alicia Hempsted. "Unfortunately, what might seem like a harmless loophole can have serious long-term consequences."

Ms. Hempsted advises those searching for car insurance for young drivers to shop around to find the best deals and consider telematics policies to bring down costs. She also emphasizes the importance of honesty when dealing with insurance companies.

In conclusion, 'fronting' is a serious form of insurance fraud that can have significant consequences for young drivers and their families. While it may seem like an easy way to cut costs, the risks involved far outweigh any potential benefits. By being honest and exploring legitimate ways to reduce premiums, young drivers can ensure they have affordable car insurance without putting themselves or others at risk.