Crackdown puts brakes on unlicensed drivers

Published on 14/08/2012 12:17

A THREE-DAY crackdown on unlicensed and uninsured drivers started across Scotland today.

From 7am, police forces across the country began to increase checks on motorists’ licences and insurance documents, while also targeting other road safety 
offences such as speeding, failing to wear a seatbelt and using a mobile phone while driving.

A police survey estimates that there are around 1.2 million uninsured drivers in the UK and insurance premiums on registered drivers are increased every year as a result.

Offenders caught in the crackdown can have their vehicle seized and be hit with between three and eight penalty points, as well as a maximum fine of £5000 for driving without insurance and £1000 for not holding an eligible licence.

Courts can order the disqualification of the offender in the most 
serious cases.

Vehicles seized under the powers are only released if the owner presents valid insurance and licensing documentation. They also have to pay a £150 recovery fee, plus £20 for each day the vehicle was stored.