Drivers are being warned they could face fines and penalty points for making a mistake behind the wheel.
While some motorists may deliberately take the risk in an attempt to save money, others could fall foul of the rules through nothing more than a simple 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.”
It has been confirmed that police can issue a £300 fixed penalty and six points to anyone caught driving a vehicle without proper insurance. If the offence is taken to court, the consequences can be far more severe. According to GOV.UK, drivers could face an unlimited fine and even be disqualified from getting behind the wheel.
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.
- 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.