The RAC has begun offering discounts on its insurance premiums for motorists who use satellite navigation equipment. 

According to the breakdown recovery service, using sat-nav devices makes drivers less likely to crash.

"It means you don't have to constantly look at road names, warning signs and so on," said an RAC spokesman. "It makes you a lower risk."

Mark Peacey, a spokesman for sat-nav company Garmin, added: "Using sat-nav is considered a great way to make driving less stressful and more enjoyable. 

"With innovations like pre-loaded speed camera information, drivers are alerted to known black-spots and provided with an ongoing reminder to be aware of conditions and speed."