DRIVERS face higher car insurance costs if they are divorced, if they smoke - or even if they are too fat.
Insurers who want to take "lifestyle factors" into account are buying the information from marketing and credit agencies to add to the details given by customers.
Some firms see an overweight motorist or a smoker as a higher risk because their habits suggest a "lack of discipline" that could creep into their driving. And married people are seen as more settled and less of a risk than divorced drivers.
Drivers' groups are appalled by the move and are urging the Government to intervene.
Mark McArthur-Christie of the Association of British Drivers said: "Car insurance is the last rip-off financial service.
"Is it right that because I'm a divorced smoker with a few extra pounds my advanced driving qualifications count for nothing? Are insurance companies our moral guardians now?"
Premiums can also rocket if a driver has children - they can be a distraction on a journey.
Mechanical engineer Yvonne Cox was horrified when her premium increased from £343 to £356 after she told her insurer Liverpool Victoria she had divorced. Ms Cox, 52, from Woking, Surrey, said: "When I asked why, I was told my mind might be unbalanced and affect my driving. I was aghast."
Liverpool Victoria have vowed to look at staff training, but denies using the word "unbalanced".
A spokesman said the firm were reviewing their criteria but admitted they charged divorcees more.
A spokesman for the AA - also a major insurer - admitted: "Being married is proven to reduce the likelihood of accidents as people, particularly men, then drive more carefully."
7 REASONS WHY YOUR COSTS ARE HIGHER
Marital status: People considered "unsettled" may drive poorly.
Children: Distraction to the driver.
Smoking/obesity: Indicates a lack of discipline which could creep into driving.
Income: Well-off less likely to claim.
Credit history: People with poor credit ratings are seen as reckless.
Occupation: Certain jobs are associated with "safer" drivers, such as solicitors and factory workers. Actors' premiums are high.
Car colour: Some colours, such as black, have higher accident rates, so cost more to insure.
http://www.sundaymirror.co.uk/news/p...%20CAR%20COVER
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