2:00pm Saturday 30th August 2008
Dyfed-Powys Police recently made illegal drivers a special offer — the force will crush their cars for free.
The force is highlighting its use of section 165 of the road traffic act, which allows police to seize any vehicle that is not covered by insurance or if the driver does not have the correct licence. Dyfed-Powys Police is currently seizing around 120 vehicles a month.
To warn motorists about the legislation, a crushed vehicle display will be touring the force’s area over the next few weeks.
The crushed vehicle gives a clear message that if you do not have the correct documentation, the police will seize the car.
Chief inspector of roads policing, Steve Matchett, said: “Drivers sometimes think they will not bother with the cost of insurance.
“However, if you drive your vehicle on a road you have a responsibility to ensure everything about the vehicle and yourself is legal. You require a valid driving licence and valid insurance.
“Throughout the force we have automatic number plate readers which enable police officers to check on the legality of vehicles within seconds. Should you not have the correct documents you risk having your vehicle seized and potentially crushed.”
Offenders will also be prosecuted and could end up with a substantial fine and points on their licence.
Vehicle owners who let others drive their vehicles, without correct documentation, could be prosecuted, as well as the driver.
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