Women in their fifties are more likely to face higher car insurance premiums than men, research has shown.

A study carried out by price comparison site, Confused.com, revealed that women aged 50 and over with penalty points on their licences can face higher car insurance premiums than men.

The study revealed that the car insurance premium of a 55 year old woman from Bristol driving a 3.0 BMW X5, would be nearly 50 per cent more than the cover of a man with the same credentials.

While the cost cover for females would rise by 82 per cent, the males premiums would rise by only 49 per cent.

Chief executive officer of the price comparison site, Carlton Hood said, “Saving two minutes on your journey time by skipping a red light or driving over a speed limit not only endangers yourself and others around you, but you are risking a large fine, a tarnished licence and potentially higher insurance premiums.”

In addition, research by uSwitch.com revealed that young drivers are also paying more for their car insurance as some drivers pay 115 per cent more cover than other motorists.

The government is to pass a new Equalities Bill to rule out age discrimination.

Insurance expert at uSwitch.com, Ashton Berkhauer stated, “Whether the Equalities Bill impacts young driver premiums or not, the most important thing is to research the cost of insurance before you buy a car. Young buyers must do their homework first to suit their needs and budget.”