BMW drivers are the most likely to have motoring convictions and make claims on their insurance, according to a new study.

Research by GoCompare Car Insurance claims BMW420D drivers are the most likely to speed, run a red light or make an at-fault claim.

The study of quote inquiries by the insurance provider claims more than one in six BMW 4 Series drivers have at least one conviction.

The research also found Mercedes and Audi drivers weren't far behind.

At the other end of the scale, Vauxhall, Ford and Fiat drivers were named among the safest.

Matt Oliver, spokesperson for GoCompare Car Insurance said: "While it may be no surprise that higher-powered, luxury cars are the marques of choice for some of the more dangerous drivers on the road, it's not true of all owners of these makes.

"What is more worrying is the large number of these cars on the road right now. According to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), BMW, Mercedes and Audi all feature among the top ten most popular cars of 2018**.

"Typically, many of the cars listed in our top ten lists will be driven by those commuting or driving for longer periods on the motorway, at peak times in highly built up areas, increasing the risk of an accident or motoring conviction.

"Claiming on insurance when you're at fault is likely to result in the cost of your car insurance rocketing, more than other claims, as you will be deemed a higher-risk driver."