New research has found one-third of motorists in the UK are unaware of what the national speed limit is which could lead to accidents and as a result drive up the cost of car insurance.

According to a survey by uSwitch.com, over 58 per cent of drivers are unsure of who has priority when traffic lights fail, while 14 per cent rely on speed limit signs to guide them as to how fast they should be travelling.

The price comparison site added that consumers pay out up to £854 million extra for car insurance each year as a result of making just one claim while the average payout is around £1,908.

Figures from the site reveal over 7,000 accidents a year are caused by drivers exceeding the speed limit.

Ashton Berkhauer, insurance expert at uSwitch.com, claims stricter driving tests could reduce the number of accidents which in turn could lower the cost of premiums.

"[Tougher testing] could lead to fewer accidents, safer roads and lower insurance premiums for all, allowing consumers to save money at a time when it is hard to come by," he said.

Speed limits in the UK are in increments of ten ranging from 20mph to 70 mph.

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