British motorists should check that their vehicles are covered for flood damage in the wake the recent flooding that has hit the UK, a new report states.

A study from insurance comparison site Gocompare.co.uk claims that up to 30 per cent of UK drivers would not be covered if their car was damaged by flood water.

"Third party or third party, fire and theft policies are low cost and straightforward contracts, but they 'do what they say on the tin'," Hayley Parsons, managing director at Gocompare.com, commented.

"Drivers with these policies will not be covered for flood damage, and our figures show that almost 30 per cent (28.1 per cent) of UK drivers opt for either one of these policies; however, only those with a comprehensive motor insurance policy will be able to claim for flood damage on their car insurance.

"Generally, drivers will opt for either a third party only, or third party fire and theft policy as these will cost less than comprehensive cover.

"There is nothing wrong with purchasing these policies, but it is essential in times such as these that drivers know exactly what is and isn't included in their policy cover."

Comprehensive insurance covers everything that third-party fire and theft does, although the car will additionally be insured for flood damage.