Over 1,300 uninsured vehicles seized in Norfolk last year
Norfolk Police seized an average of 3.6 vehicles every day in 2023.
Last updated 16th Feb 2024
Police in Norfolk seized 1,304 uninsured vehicles across the county between January and December last year, which is an average of 3.6 vehicles every day.
Officers say uninsured vehicles pose a significant risk to other road users, as if you are involved in a collision with someone who is not appropriately insured, it could leave you significantly out of pocket should you require medical care, property repairs, or other support.
All police forces submit monthly vehicle seizure statistics to MIB (Motor Insurers’ Bureau), the UK entity responsible for compensating individuals involved in a collision with an uninsured driver, or a driver who fails to stop.
Officers out on patrol are able to use Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras built into police cars to detect vehicles that do not have insurance. If the driver is then unable to provide any proof of insurance, the vehicle is seized.
Other consequences could include: six penalty points on your licence; a fixed penalty of £300; and paying a fee to have your vehicle released. Vehicles will only be released back to the owner once they have bought valid insurance and failure to comply with these conditions could result in it being crushed.
Should the case go to court offenders face the prospect of an unlimited fine and being disqualified from driving.
Inspector Gary Miller, of the Joint Norfolk and Suffolk Roads and Armed Policing Team, said: “These statistics clearly demonstrate the proactive work our officers are undertaking every day to keep our roads safe.
“Anyone who thinks that driving a car without insurance is not that serious, should speak to people who have been involved in a collision where they have not been able to claim for the damage caused to their vehicle, or for any medical care they may have required as a consequence.
Giles Orpen-Smellie, Norfolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner said: “Residents across Norfolk tell me repeatedly that road safety is one of their greatest concerns. We all have a responsibility to drive with the relevant insurance.
Accidents happen, but the trauma of an accident can be compounded by the additional costs and administration involved in dealing with an uninsured driver.