Car insurance policies are proving to be too complex for many drivers, according to a new study.

The research from Co-Operative found that 48 per cent of motorists find motor insurance confusing, while 51 per cent admitted that they do not understand how motor insurance is calculated.

As well as this, 43 per cent of drivers described policies as "grudge purchases" and 36 per cent do not understand how their price relates to their vehicle.

Another finding was that 42 per cent of drivers do not realise that their premium is for when another motorist claims for personal injury due to an accident that isn't their fault.

Some 36 per cent of respondents said that different add-ons are confusing, while insurance premium tax can be misleading for 23 per cent of drivers and 18 per cent were unsure on when they need to update their insurer on changes.

James Hillon, products and pricing director at Co-op Insurance, said: "Motor insurance can be complex and the research has found that drivers are often confused by it.

"[Our] new video, which is the first in a series, aims to answer the age old question drivers have about the cost of their premium, in relation to the value of their vehicle."

Mr Hillon went on to say that he wants to keep communities safe and hopes that the company's guidance will help drivers understand the value they receive from insurance and reduce the chances of them risking travelling without it.