Cracking down on uninsured drivers
Officers from North Wales Police are getting behind a national campaign which aims to reduce the number of uninsured drivers on the UK’s roads.
The Roads Crime Unit, supported by colleagues from other policing teams, are backing the week-long initiative as part of the Force’s commitment to reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on our roads.
Inspector Leigh Evans of the Force’s Roads Crime Unit said: “Reducing the number of people killed or seriously injured on our roads remains our priority and removing uninsured drivers from our roads helps to do just that.
“Using ANPR (Automated Number Plate Recognition) technology available, we will be carrying out a combination of mobile and static road checks, throughout Operation Drive Insured.
“Many people will see uninsured driving as a victimless crime at best, or as only impacting on the profits of large insurance companies at worst, but this is not the case.
“Uninsured drivers are significantly more likely to cause a death or injury on the road and are also often involved in wider road crime.
“We witness far too often the devastation a road collision has on those involved, their families and the wider community. When this also involves an uninsured driver, there is also the financial cost associated with it.
“This campaign is important to protect the majority of law abiding drivers using our roads in north Wales.
“We are urging all drivers to respect other road users and drive insured. Protecting the public and keeping our roads safe for everyone is our priority and removing uninsured drivers from our roads helps to do that.”
Drivers without insurance face their vehicle being seized and potentially crushed, along with a £300 fixed penalty notice and six licence points. They can also be referred to court and face an unlimited fine and a driving ban.
Uninsured convictions also show on basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks which can impact employment prospects.
Members of the public are encouraged to check that their vehicle is appearing as insured on the MID for free at www.askmid.com or to contact their insurer for support.
If you know someone who is driving uninsured, please report them to the police on 101 the non-emergency number or report anonymously via independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.