UK report exhibits alarming pattern of uninsured driving amongst one in six motorists

A poll of 2,000 adults discovered that almost half of respondents have driven uninsured within the last two years

A staggering one in six drivers have confessed to getting behind the wheel without having valid car insurance, a recent survey has revealed. After polling 2,000 adults, the study found that nearly half of the respondents had driven uninsured within the past two years, with a fifth claiming they did so without realising as their policy had expired without their knowledge.

Despite driving without insurance being a serious offence that can lead to immediate disqualification from driving, a significant 17% of drivers admitted to deliberately driving uninsured to cut costs. Moreover, a quarter believed insurance was unnecessary if they were doing short trips.

Interestingly, learner drivers were found to be twice as likely to drive uninsured compared to those with full driving licenses.

A fifth of learner drivers were under the misconception that they didn’t require valid insurance as provisional license holders, even when accompanied by a licensed driver. Many believed they could practice driving in car parks and cul-de-sacs without insurance.

James Armstrong, a young driver expert at flexible car insurer Veygo, which commissioned the study, warned: “Driving without insurance is a serious offence that can result in hefty fines, points on your licence, or even having your car seized.

“It’s worrying to see so many people are driving uninsured, especially as there are affordable options available for short-term cover.”

Additionally, 10% of drivers admitted to driving uninsured because they kept delaying the renewal of their policy as part of their life admin tasks.

A lack of awareness about available options in the market is also a contributing factor, with 20% stating they were unaware of temporary car insurance options.

The research, which was conducted by OnePoll, found 32% stopped driving uninsured after a friend or family member pointed out the offence.

In contrast, 27% obtained insurance as soon as they could afford it. For 18%, the prompt to get insured came only after being stopped by the police.

James Armstrong from Veygo added: “It’s crucial for all drivers to understand the rules around insurance, especially learners who are just starting their driving journey.

“We want to help demystify the process and ensure everyone has access to the right cover whenever they get behind the wheel.”