Motorists have been cautioned that they risk facing a substantial fine and penalty points for making one mistake. Some motorists may deliberately do this to cut costs.
Yet others might find themselves in this position through an innocent oversight. According to GOV.UK, "it’s illegal to drive a vehicle on a road or in a public place without at least 3rd party insurance.
"Even if the vehicle itself is insured, if you’re not correctly insured to drive it you could get penalised." Breaking this simple rule can have serious consequences.
Penalty for uninsured drivers in the UK
Police are authorised to impose a fixed penalty of £300 and 6 penalty points on anyone caught driving a vehicle without proper insurance.
Should the matter go to court, the consequences become far more severe. GOV.UK states motorists could face an unlimited fine and potential driving ban.
It adds: "The police also have the power to seize, and in some cases, destroy the vehicle that’s being driven uninsured."
Legal obligations of drivers and riders
Before you drive or ride, drivers must follow certain rules.
Drivers must:
- have the correct driving licence
- be the minimum driving or riding age
- meet the minimum eyesight rules
Learner drivers must:
- be supervised by a qualified driver (except if riding a motorcycle)
- display L plates (L plates or D plates in Wales)
When it comes to vehicle requirements, it is warned that a driver's vehicle must:
- be registered with DVLA
- have up-to-date vehicle tax (check if your vehicle is taxed online)
- have a current MOT certificate (if your vehicle needs one)
- be roadworthy
It adds: "You must also have a minimum of third party insurance that covers your use of the vehicle."
If there are any changes to personal or vehicle details, you must tell DVLA if you:
- Change your name or gender
- Change your address
- Make any alterations to your vehicle
- Sell your vehicle
- Have or develop a medical condition
"If you do not meet your obligations, you may be taken to court or have to pay a fine", GOV.UK warns.