True cost of car ‘withdrawal’ revealed

Just one week without a car can cost drivers £135 and increase the chances of depression, anger and even panic.

A quarter of motorists have admitted their anxiety levels would rise if they had no access to their car, as part of a survey by Direct Line Car Insurance.

And almost one in four would rather go without seeing their family than go without their motor.

Some 15% would feel depressed, 10% would be angrier than usual and 10% would expect to feel panic.

More than a quarter say they would prefer to go without their mobile phone than their car, while a surprising 47% of people say they would rather be deprived of their social life altogether than lose their car.

A determined 9%, who may have been playing light-hearted games with the survey, claim to be happier to go without food for longer than they'd be willing to part with their car.

Expenses typically incurred in an unexpected week without a car would cover commuting, loss of earnings, getting children to school and cancelling social plans, totalling £135 according to Direct Line's calculations.

Direct Line is introducing a guaranteed hire car scheme to all its comprehensive insurance policies.

Gus Park, director of motor at Direct Line said: 'A car is an integral part of many people's work and social lives, which is why being without it can be so costly. From a financial perspective, the costs can really mount up over time, but it also leaves many people feeling stranded hence the feelings of such anxiety.'