Two new cars are being provided to Avon and Somerset Police’s Proactive Roads Policing Team this month by MIB (Motor Insurers’ Bureau), the entity responsible for tackling uninsured driving across the UK. The dual-branded police vehicles highlight the ongoing partnership, whilst increasing access to ANPR-equipped roads policing cars for Special Constables.

A group of 20 Special Constables attached to the Proactive Roads Policing Team within Avon and Somerset Police are authorised to drive marked vehicles, and have the ability to stop and seize vehicles found to be uninsured or inadequately insured. However, they can often find it challenging to access appropriate police cars as demand is high.

To support these dedicated volunteer police officers, MIB has funded two dual-branded Toyota Corollas. Both cars have in-built ANPR, which highlights suspected uninsured vehicles to the officers inside, allowing them to stop and scrutinise the insurance status further. Vehicles of interest are identified by comparing ANPR data with Navigate, the central record of all live motor insurance policy data, held by MIB.

The first Toyota was presented on Thursday 15 May at the Portishead force headquarters during a key handover ceremony, whilst the second car will be arriving with the force in the coming weeks.

Following the handover ceremony, Special Constables undertook the first uninsured driving operation for the new vehicle. As uninsured driving is, sadly, not a standalone issue, vehicle stops for suspected insurance issues often help to identify individuals of interest, stolen vehicles and goods, and wider criminal networks. During this first operation for the dual-branded car, a drink driver was quickly identified and apprehended.

Matt Boiles, Roads Policing Inspector for Avon and Somerset Police, said:“We’re incredibly grateful to MIB for funding these new vehicles, which gives our Special Constables a dedicated and visible tool to help us tackle uninsured driving.

“Uninsured drivers are often linked to a range of other road offences, including the Fatal Five – which are key contributors to serious injury and death on our roads. By targeting those who drive without insurance, we’re not only improving road safety but also helping to disrupt wider criminality and keep our communities safer.”

Clare Moody, Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset, attended the key handover ceremony and said: “I am delighted to see this continued partnership between Avon and Somerset Police and the Motor Insurers' Bureau. The addition of these dual-branded vehicles will play a crucial role in helping our Special Constables to tackle uninsured driving, making our roads safer for everyone.

“We know that uninsured drivers often contribute to wider criminality and road offences, so this initiative is not just about enforcing the law but about protecting our communities and preventing further harm. I look forward to seeing the positive impact these vehicles will have in reducing uninsured driving and supporting wider public safety efforts.”

Ongoing partnership

Avon and Somerset Police seized 2,456 uninsured vehicles across the region between January and December in 2024, averaging nearly seven vehicles per day.

In April, Avon and Somerset became one of nine UK forces collaborating with MIB to run Operation Scalis. This MIB-led initiative enables Avon and Somerset Police to dedicate officer time to focus on tackling uninsured driving in key hotspots across the region, identified through data-driven insights such as uninsured claims submitted to MIB.

Dedicated Operation Scalis days are being run across the region until the end of the Summer, with funding allocated from MIB’s £5 million investment in increasing their work in getting uninsured drivers off the roads sooner. Whilst the primary target is uninsured vehicles, any additional criminal activity discovered will also be addressed.

Through the running of Operation Scalis and the two new ANPR-equipped police cars, Avon and Somerset Police aim to surpass their 2024 seizure figures to further reduce the risk posed by uninsured vehicles.

Hayley Sutcliffe, Law Enforcement Liaison Officer at MIB, said: “We’re delighted to be able to support Special Constables within Avon and Somerset. Their willingness to partner with MIB in taking dangerous uninsured vehicles off the road, in order to keep all road users safe, is hugely appreciated.

“Hopefully, seeing these cars patrolling the region will remain all motorists to check their insurance is in place and appropriate for their needs.

“We look forward to seeing the results of these dedicated vehicles and continuing to work closely with Avon and Somerset Police.”

Martin Saunders, Head of Uninsured Driving Prevention at MIB, said: “I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to launch this new initiative, specifically aimed at supporting Special Constables who we know are eager to help improve road safety across the region. I’m excited to start seeing all they achieve with these dedicated vehicles to demonstrate the value of this pilot.”