Car insurance customers in Northern Ireland have extra reason to be vigilant on the roads during the winter since just two accidents can double the cost of their premiums, the latest research affirms.

According to data uncovered by Confused.com's motoring experts, there were increases of over 200 per cent among hundreds of motor insurance quotes they analysed before any accidents were recorded and again after two accidents had been reported.

"When you consider the average premium in 2009 was £400 that's a lot of money to lose and let's face it, there are far better things you could be spending it on," remarked the comparison site's Will Thomas. "In a year when we expect premiums to rise anyway, ensuring you shop around and don't just accept your renewal will absolutely help."

In addition to the latter recommendation, Northern Ireland car insurance customers are urged not to drive in bad weather unless they "absolutely have to", to avoid braking sharply on icy roads, approach corners at lower speeds and apply their brake gently and for longer when decelerating.

In flood conditions, the advice is to take puddles slowly and avoid them altogether if you're unsure of the depth.