Uninsured drivers crackdown in Oldham

GMP are urging uninsured drivers to get cover

Greater Manchester Police is taking steps to crack down on uninsured drivers.

Over the past few weeks, hundreds of motorists in our region have been sent letters asking them to check the have valid insurance.

It's after their vehicles have been spotted on the road, despite being listed as uninsured on the Motor Insurance Database.

The move means drivers have the chance to correct any mistakes or late payments before action is taken by police.

If a vehicle is stopped by the police on a road or public place, without a valid policy of insurance, it can be seized under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. 

The vehicle will not be released until a valid policy of insurance and driving licence has been produced, proof of ownership and a release fee paid - including the recovery fee and storage charges. 

After 14 days the vehicle will be disposed of.

There are also a number of consequences of being caught driving an uninsured vehicle. 

The offence carries up to eight penalty points at a Magistrates' Court with the option of disqualification from driving and an unlimited fine. 

When the offence is dealt with at the roadside, it carries a fine of £300 and six penalty points. 

GMP's Roads Policing Unit is taking part in Operation Drive Insured during October in a bid to reduced the number of uninsured drivers on the roads.

The letters give drivers the opportunity to remedy any administrative errors, late payments, voided or cancelled policies, or updates for the insurance company with any change in number plate. 

Insurance companies need to be notified of any new private plates or cherished transfers. 

If they are not, the driver risks being stopped as records will indicate the car as having no policy in force. 

Where drivers fail to obtain insurance and continue to use the roads without a valid policy of insurance, they will be targeted by mobile patrols.