Motorists looking to purchase a second-hand vehicle are being advised to “take their time,” it has been revealed.

According to research from the vehicle information firm, HPI, car insurance customers choosing to downsize must do their research if they want to reduce costs.

The firm stated that motorists rushing into making a decision could find themselves spending more than what they bargained for.

Director of HPI, Nick Lindsay, advised that buyers check out the vehicle’s history and ensure they get it inspected before making a purchase.

He said: "This will help identify whether the car is twice the car a buyer may think it is."

The firm also warned that motorists who rush into making a decision could end up missing out on a great deal elsewhere.

Meanwhile, the number car insurance claims made could be expected to fall after the Department for Transport announced a new legislation to allow the police and Vehicle Operator Services Agency officers, to act harder on road offenders.

Motorists found breeching the road safety laws could face on-the-spot fines, having their vehicles immobilised and could even permanently banned from driving.

Road safety minister Jim Fitzpatrick said: "We want to keep our roads as safe as possible and these tough new measures mean that any driver who breaks the rules of the road will have to face the consequences."

The new legislation will also apply to non UK residents who breach British road safety legislations.