We all know that where there's blame, there's a claim. But while a mild whiplash injury might be a shortcut to a personal injury payout bonanza, in the long term it's probably better to look after your neck than to have a nice holiday paid for.

So, here are some tips from the good people at the Institute of Advanced Motorists on how to avoid any driving-related neck issues, part of its Drive & Survive series.

"The rise in whiplash compensation claims is driving up car insurance," said the IAM's driving expert Simon Elstow. "Avoid injury and a hit to your insurance premium by following our advice"

So here's the advice:

Keep a good distance in front of you so that you can slow down gently when you need to.

Except in an emergency, always look in the mirror before braking. Knowing what the car behind is doing is the best way to avoid getting hit from behind.

Make sure you have a properly adjusted head restraint. The top of the head restraint should be level with the top of your head for maximum safety.

Anticipate the traffic ahead and drive to avoid stopping as often – slowing down earlier gives the driver behind more time to react.

Try and signal early for junctions to give time for the traffic behind you to react.

Keep your foot lightly on the foot brake as traffic approaches from behind to show brake lights as a warning, until you are sure it is stopping.

For more advice on safe and efficient driving, head to IAM's Drive & Survive website, at www.drivingadvice.org.uk