Waking up on a freezing cold morning, it can be tempting to save a few extra minutes by starting the engine and warming the vehicle up while you nip back inside to finish getting ready. 

But according to the British Insurance Brokers Association (BIBA), many drivers put their vehicles at risk by leaving the keys in the ignition while the vehicle is unattended.

BIBA says motorists may not be able to claim on their insurance if the vehicle is stolen because:

• Most motor insurance policies now have a specific “keys in car ” or “vehicle left unattended” clause and exclude claims in these circumstances.

• In addition, there will be a ‘reasonable care’ clause, whereby the insurer may reject a claim on the grounds of the policyholder being ‘reckless’ in not safeguarding the vehicle.

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The following situations could leave motorists’ cars at risk:

• Leaving the keys in/on the vehicle or in the ignition.

• Leaving an unlocked vehicle unattended.

• Vehicles are most vulnerable when people are paying for petrol or are outside the family home.

Instead, drivers should aim to leave enough time each morning to defrost their cars properly without leaving their cars unattended.