Number of drivers without insurance falling

The MIB (Motor Insurers’ Bureau) has reported a 20% drop in the number of people driving without valid car insurance over the past four years.

In 2005 the figure stood at 1.8 million, but in 2009 that figure was reduced to 1.5 million.

Although the drop is significant, the problem of uninsured drivers on our streets is still large. MIB warns that 4% of drivers in the UK don’t have cover, the highest rate in the whole of Western Europe.

Every year, 23,000 people are injured in accidents involving uninsured drivers, and a total of 160 people are killed. The resulting payouts from the insurance companies add up to a bill of £500 million every year. But it is the rest of the driving population that has to pay for this in the form of an extra £30 on top of every premium.

The chief executive of the MIB, Ashton West, said that the reduction is a “significant step” that shows that uninsured drivers are “consistently being caught and removed from the road”. He reminded drivers that, although times are tough, car insurance is not something you can choose to avoid paying as it is a legal requirement. He also highlighted the fact that the costs are too high for the rest of motorists who have to foot the bill.

The punishment for driving without insurance can be severe, constituting a £200 fine and six penalty points on the licence. The vehicle can also be seized, requiring a £150 recovery charge to collect it.