Uninsured drivers up 33%

by David Masters

Story link: Uninsured drivers up 33%

The number of motorists driving without insurance has increased by a third in the past 12 months, research by moneysupermarket.com revealed this week.

One in five drivers are now getting behind the wheel without insurance cover, a poll by the price comparison site discovered.

This is compared to the 15% of drivers who took to the roads without insurance in 2008.

Male drivers are more likely to drive without protection, the study found, with 23% having done so, compared to 16% of female drivers.

Younger drivers were also exposed as being more likely to take the risk of driving uninsured.

Nearly two in five drivers in their 20s have driven without cover, compared to 7% in their sixties.

“How disappointing to see so many Brits have taken to the roads uninsured – it’s a worrying thought every fifth car we see isn’t covered,” said Steve Sweeney, moneysupermarket.com’s head of motor insurance.

Sweeney warned motorists that driving without cover could cost them their license.

“Whatever the distance, driving without insurance is illegal,” he said.

“Anyone caught doing so could face hefty penalties which include a £200 on-the-spot fine and six points on their license.”