Operation Drive Insured aims to catch uninsured drivers

Operation Drive Insured, running from 12-18 November 2018, is a campaign run by the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) using enhanced operations to protect road users from uninsured drivers.

35 police forces in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are using ANPR cameras to identify and stop motorists that may be uninsured according to the Motor Insurance Database (MID).

The MIB’s police helpline works with roadside officers to check with insurers and confirm if the driver has valid insurance in place or not. Police will also be carrying out checks for other road traffic offences.

Uninsured drivers found during Operation Drive Insured could face the following action:

• Their vehicle seized
• Six points on their licence
• £300 fine
• Possible court prosecution

Each year, the MIB police helpline records numerous incidents involving uninsured drivers, who are often involved in other illegal activities too. These might include:

• Driving without a valid licence
• Driving a stolen or untaxed vehicle
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Uninsured drivers cause high numbers of accidents, and in 2017 the MIB had 11,000 claims from people involved in accidents with uninsured drivers. It believes insured drivers are generally safer than uninsured because they’re more likely to take care and drive legally to keep insurance costs down.

Neil Drane, Head of Enforcement at MIB, said: “A driver with no valid insurance has no legal right to be on the road and removing them undoubtedly makes roads safer. The increased activity during Operation Drive Insured will play a significant support.”

If you think someone is driving without valid insurance, you can report it to your local police force or CrimeStoppers.