West Midlands Police support national campaign to crack down on uninsured drivers
More than 130 people are killed on UK roads by uninsured drivers every year.
West Midlands Police say they're supporting a national campaign to crack down on uninsured drivers.
During Road Safety Week, the NPCC Roads Policing campaign - known as Op Drive Insured - is in partnership with the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB) and will run from November 20 to 26.
During the week, officers from the force will be carrying out enhanced enforcement activity to stop and check vehicles for insurance. They will also be informing drivers of the consequences of uninsured driving and encouraging them to check that their insurance is valid.
Every year, more than 130 people are killed on Britain’s roads by uninsured drivers.
Figures have shown that those who drive uninsured are ten times more likely to be convicted of drink driving, six times more likely to be driving a defective vehicle and 4 to 5 times more likely to be involved in a fatal accident.
The West Midlands region has some of the highest levels of uninsured vehicles in the country, with 6,444 vehicles seized for no insurance so far this year – that’s one vehicle seized every 70 minutes.
Chief Inspector Rebecca Barnsley said: "Uninsured drivers are a menace to our roads and communities, and we will not tolerate their reckless behaviour. Their actions endanger lives and cost the economy billions annually.
“They cause more collisions, inflict immense physical, emotional, and financial damage, and are often linked to serious crimes. We are committed to removing them from our roads and making our streets safer for everyone.
“This campaign is crucial to eradicating these dangerous motorists and making our roads safer. We urge all motorists to check their insurance is valid and their vehicles are roadworthy to protect lives and prevent accidents."