Police target uninsured drivers in week-long operation

A week-long police operation is under way across Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire to crack down on uninsured drivers.

The national initiative, called Operation Drive Insured, runs from 10–16 November and involves targeted roads policing activity to detect and seize vehicles being driven without insurance.

The campaign, developed by the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) and supported by police forces across the UK, aims to raise awareness and encourage motorists to check their cover — while also targeting those who deliberately break the law.

Every 20 minutes, someone in the UK is hit by an uninsured or hit-and-run driver, and each day at least one person is so seriously injured that they require life-long care.

West Mercia Police said tackling uninsured drivers remains a year-round priority, with road safety central to Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion’s Safer Communities Plan.

Superintendent Stuart Bill, of West Mercia Police, said: “Whilst the majority of road users comply with the law, there are a small minority who do not.
Driving without valid insurance is not only against the law – it devastates lives every year.
Supporting this national operation is part of our commitment to improve road safety for all and to deny criminals the use of our roads.”

Police are reminding motorists that even innocent mistakes — such as assuming policies auto-renew or using a personal vehicle for work purposes — can leave drivers uninsured.

PCC John Campion added: “Enforcement is crucial, but it’s only one part of the solution. By combining enforcement with education and engineering, we can take a comprehensive approach to road safety and reduce the harm that devastates too many lives.”

Drivers caught without valid insurance risk having their vehicle seized or crushed, receiving a £300 fine and six penalty points, or facing court action, a driving ban and an unlimited fine.

Motorists can check if their vehicle is insured for free at www.askmid.com.