Police in the north-east have launched a crackdown on the illegal use of uninsured vehicles this week as part of a national campaign.
Road checks will take place throughout the region and there will also be patrols by marked and unmarked vehicles with Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology.
There are an estimated 1.2million uninsured drivers on the roads in Britain and police across the UK are keen to reduce this figure.
If they discover a disparity at the roadside, they will liaise with the driver and the Motor Insurers’ Bureau.
Anyone who is found to have driven a vehicle without a driving licence or insurance risks having their vehicle seized, and then crushed, if the matter is not resolved.
Road Policing Inspector Jon Barron said: “Stay off the roads if you are not legally entitled to use them. Don’t put anyone at risk by driving while uninsured.
“The legislation is there to protect all road users. If you know or suspect anyone to be driving a motor vehicle while they are not insured, then please let us know so we can take action.
“This information is invaluable to us and I can assure you it is acted upon.”
The police also confirmed that offenders will be charged and either reported to the Procurator Fiscal or receive a conditional offer of fixed penalty.
Culprits will also be fined a minimum of £300 and will also have six points added to their licence.
Reports can be made by phoning 101 or to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.