Uninsured drivers targeted in police crackdown

Police forces across the UK have been raising awareness of the dangers of driving without insurance

Drivers without insurance are being targeted by police in efforts to crackdown on the "significant number" of uninsured vehicles on Britain's roads.

The week-long operation, running until 16 November, has seen officers across the country use centrally-held data to target and stop offending motorists.

Teams from Avon and Somerset Police are taking part after seizing almost 2,500 uninsured vehicles this year within the force's region.

Insp Matt Boiles, from the Roads Policing Unit, said for people involved in collisions with uninsured drivers "the recovery of costs can be difficult and lengthy".

"It adds money onto our insurance premiums, so it's an issue.

"It's one that we take seriously and we conduct a lot of activity around targeting this area of roads policing and road safety," he said.

It is hoped the nationwide campaign, called Operation Drive Insured, and in collaboration with the Motor Insurers Bureau (MIB), will raise awareness of the dangers of driving without insurance.

According to Avon and Somerset Police, uninsured drivers are frequently involved in wider road crime, including being up to 10 times more likely to be convicted of drink or drug-driving.

The consequences for offenders are the same whether intentional or not - a £300 fixed penalty notice, six points on your licence and potentially having your vehicle crushed.

If the case goes to court, motorists could receive an unlimited fine or even a driving ban.

Problem getting worse

Insp Boiles told BBC Somerset it was important motorists contact their insurance company if they are hit by an uninsured driver.

"But I would also encourage members of the community to tell the police if they're aware of anybody driving without insurance so that we can look to get to them before they even get involved in an incident themselves," he added.

James McNally, head of personal injury at Slee Blackwell Solicitors in Taunton, Somerset, said the problem of uninsured drivers was getting worse.

"It's becoming more and more common, people just deciding to take the risk and proceed without it."

He advises anyone who is involved in a crash with an uninsured driver to also contact the MIB.

"They'll act as the defendant, they'll act as the insurer, and they'll pay you out your compensation," added Mr McNally.

A driver's insurance status can be checked by entering the car registration online.