Don't let tree stump you.

IT'S getting to that time of year again when it's not unusual to see a car loaded up with a Christmas tree.

Of course, most people buy the biggest tree they can find - and only then realise that they have to get it home somehow.

As a result trees perch precariously on the roof rack, dangle alongside the driver's head or stick out of the boot and windows into the traffic.

In the festive spirit this might be tolerated, but have you ever considered what would happen if you had an accident while ferrying your tree?

Leading insurance intermediary The Allen and Allen Group warn drivers that they could be in trouble if they're carrying anything that impairs their control of the vehicle.

And anything carried on the roof that slips off and causes injury or accident will also not be covered by a standard motor insurance policy, so if this happened the policyholder would be left liable for any third-party claim that resulted.

Ian Exworth, marketing manager, said: 'Buying a tree is part of the fun of Christmas, but maybe this year drivers should consider that it might be simpler to either buy something that fits neatly on the back seat or in the boot, or have it delivered.'