Record number of vehicles seized for no insurance

We have seized a record number of vehicles for no insurance in one day across the West Midlands.

As part of a national operation to tackle no insurance we seized 71 vehicles yesterday (Tuesday) for no insurance.

We work closely with the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB) to target drivers who fail to insure their vehicles.

Uninsured drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in collisions and are often linked to wider criminal activity. In fact, recent operations have uncovered serious crimes, including violent offences, drug supply, and knife crime.

In the UK, every driver must have at least third-party insurance before getting behind the wheel. Yet thousands still take the risk, putting themselves and others in harm’s way.

The consequences are severe – a £300 fine, six penalty points, and in serious cases, an unlimited fine, a driving ban, and having your vehicle seized and destroyed.

Losing your car also means losing your freedom - no way to get to work, take the kids to school, or travel where you need to go.

Supt Jack Hadley, Head of Roads Policing Unit, said: "Our role is to prevent people being killed or being seriously injured on our roads. “Driving without insurance is a serious risk to everyone on the road. If you choose to break the law, you’re not only endangering lives but also jeopardising your own future.

"People may think that we are just picking on innocent motorists but driving without insurance is dangerous, costly, and can have life-changing consequences. While most people pay to have insurance, we will not allow those who choose not to, to get away with it.

"We are running operations across our force area to tackle uninsured drivers. Our officers are working around the clock, every single day, to identify uninsured drivers and take action. We will find you, we will seize your vehicle, and we will prosecute. The message is simple: stay insured, drive responsibly, and help us keep our roads safe."

Not sure if you’re insured to drive? Here’s how to check:

• Check your vehicle is shown as insured on Check Your Vehicle, run by MIB but remember, this doesn’t prove you’re covered to drive it or you have the right class-of-use.
• Learn about the top insurance mistakes you may be making that leave you uninsured or inadequately insured at www.mib.org.uk/DriveInsured
• Contact your insurance provider directly, review your policy documents, or log in to your insurer’s online portal.