Motorist Caught Driving Uninsured Despite Last-Minute Policy Attempt
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Roads Policing officers have issued a warning to motorists after a driver was caught trying to deceive officers with a last-minute short-term insurance policy.
Officers recently stopped a vehicle after checks suggested the driver had no valid insurance. When questioned, the driver confidently claimed they were insured — but a quick verification showed no active policy in place.
Moments later, a brand-new short-term insurance policy appeared on the driver’s record. However, further investigation revealed it had been purchased after the driver was stopped by police.
A spokesperson for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Roads Policing said:
“Unfortunately for the driver, we’re not that easy to fool. The system clearly showed the policy was taken out after they were stopped — a failed attempt to pull the wool over our eyes!”
The driver now faces prosecution for driving without valid insurance — an offence that carries a potential fine, six penalty points, and vehicle seizure.
Police have also raised concerns about a rise in fake or unrecognised short-term insurance providers appearing online. Some appear legitimate but do not provide genuine cover, leaving motorists unknowingly uninsured.
“If you’re buying temporary or short-term insurance, make sure it’s from a genuine, UK-registered insurer and that you can prove your cover at the roadside – either through your insurer’s official app, email confirmation, or by contacting them directly.”
Officers remind drivers that they can see exactly when and where a policy was created, so anyone considering trying their luck with a last-minute purchase should think again.
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Key reminders for motorists:
• Insurance must be valid before you drive.
• Taking out a policy after being stopped is still driving uninsured.
• Always verify that short-term insurers are legitimate and UK-registered.
• Keep proof of insurance — such as an email or app confirmation — accessible at the roadside.