For seven days from today (Monday, November 15th) officers will be taking part in the national initiative – codenamed Op Drive Insured – to tackle those who take to the roads without valid insurance, a licence or MOT.
Andrew Snowden, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire said: “This is the type of proactive policing that I want to see, which is clearly aimed at dealing with selfish and irresponsible drivers so we can make our roads safer.
“Those who don’t follow the law and recklessly drive without insurance, a licence or an MOT are putting themselves and others at risk. Tackling dangerous driving in all its forms is a key priority and this will be reflected in my Police and Crime Plan.
“I am committed to getting tough on criminals and keeping people safe as I lead the fight against crime, ensuring that we make the best use of our resources and get the additional officers, funded through the Government’s uplift programme, onto Lancashire’s streets.”
Insp Rob Conolly-Perch, of the Lancashire Police Roads Policing Team, said: “We know that this is an issue that really bothers people because law-abiding motorists pay their insurance premiums but then get stung if they’re involved in a collision with an uninsured driver.
“We also know that people who drive uninsured are more likely to be involved in other crimes, be it using an unsafe vehicle, driving while disqualified or while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
“This next week will see officers deployed all over the county to stop and check that motorists are complying with the law and have all their paperwork in order.
“We hope this will send a message that we will not stand for people making the county’s roads less safe.”
Anybody who is found to be driving without insurance could get a fixed penalty notice, six points on their licence or even have their car seized. They could also end up with a criminal record and if the case goes to court could receive a driving ban and an unlimited fine.
You can check if your car is showing as insured at www.askmid.com.
