Uninsured Drivers

Dealing with accidents involving drivers without insurance

Uninsured drivers are the scourge of our British roads. It’s a shocking statistic that as many as one in twenty motorists are uninsured on British roads. Not only that, but they are a danger to others, as well as themselves. Research has shown that drivers who are uninsured are up to 10 times more likely to drink and drive, as well as three times more likely to be prosecuted for driving without care and attention.

Ten per cent of British drivers have had an accident with an uninsured driver, and it pays to know what to do should this happen to you.

If you are involved in an accident the other driver is highly unlikely to tell you that they are uninsured. Once it is safe, make sure that you get the other motorist’s name, address, phone number (if possible), model of car and the vehicle’s registration number. Double check every detail. Make a note of what the driver tells you so you have a written record of the conversation that has taken place. Even better, use your mobile phone to record the conversation, if your phone has the necessary facility.

Make as many notes as possible about the scene of the accident and any damage that may have occurred to either vehicle, including the weather conditions, road markings and any signs in the immediate vicinity. An independent witness will be very helpful too – take their name, address and phone number as you may need to rely on the witness for any claims that may arise.

Mobile phones are also invaluable in these situations for recording photographs of the scene. Take as many photos as possible from all angles, and make sure that you include a photo of all vehicles involved in the accident, as well as the drivers with their cars, if possible.