Press Release

Uninsured and carless - Introduction of new law is a major step towards improving road safety says the ABI

Britain’s roads will become safer places from today (6 July) says the ABI (Association of British Insurers). New laws will give the police powers, for the first time, to remove illegal and often dangerous vehicles from the roads.

The Serious Organised Crime Act (2005) gives the police the authority to confiscate the vehicles of uninsured motorists following roadside checks. The provisions of the Act are being introduced today through secondary legislation.

Around 1 in 20 motorists drive without insurance – more than 1 million in total. The new law provides the toughest penalty yet, and should lead to safer roads.

ABI research shows that uninsured drivers are among the most dangerous motorists. They are three times more likely to have been convicted of driving without due care and attention; six times more likely of being convicted for driving an unroadworthy vehicle, and ten times more likely to have been convicted for drink driving.

“The drive to reduce the menace of uninsured driving is accelerating”, said Justin Jacobs, the ABI’s Head of Motor Insurance.

“This new law further tightens the net on uninsured drivers. It signals that the Government means business. Working in partnership with the Government and the police, the insurance industry is developing a new regime, based on more targeted enforcement, that aims to drive the menace of uninsured driving from our roads.”

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