THE NUMBER of uninsured drivers causing road accidents has increased by approximately 10 per cent in 2009 the chief executive of the Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) has estimated.
Although the exact figure for 2009 is still being compiled, John Casey has said that anecdotally there has been a significant rise in the number of claims against uninsured drivers being processed by the MIBI due to the economic downturn.
"It appears that the recession may have had an impact on the number of uninsured drivers on the road. It is a very worrying trend and an extremely serious issue. Driving uninsured is a criminal offence and we will pursue anyone through the courts system if necessary."
The MIBI is responsible for compensating victims of accidents caused by uninsured and unidentified vehicles. It is also permitted to pursue the uninsured driver for damages. This is separate to any criminal proceedings that may be taken against him or her.
The latest figures available show that in 2008 the MIBI settled over 2,000 claims with uninsured drivers who were involved in accidents, most of which involved bodily injury. It recovered €522,000 in damages. In addition the MIBI secured 89 judgments against uninsured drivers, as well as 18 judgment mortgages.
Casey estimated that the figure for 2009 will be approximately 10 per cent higher than in 2008. In December 2009 alone the MIBI secured judgments worth more than €500,000 against uninsured drivers. While most involved judements between €20,000 and €40,000, one individual was charged with a judgment of €367,784.
According to Casey the cost of motor insurance has been declining in recent years. "In real terms the cost of motor insurance is the same as 10 years ago. Premiums have been coming down and there is a lot more competition in the market place. Price is simply is not an excuse."
He also rejected the claim that a lack of concern among drivers about Garda surveillance has led to an increase in the number of motorists driving without insurance. "There has been an increase in the traffic corps in recent years, and there are more and more roadside checks," he said.
CASE STUDY
IN ONE OF the recent cases the MIBI secured a judgement of €169,012 against an uninsured driver, John Paul McBride of 14 Lindisfarne Ave, Clondalkin, Dublin 22.
The case dated back to February 2000. Mr Mc Bride, who was 16 at the time, was driving an uninsured vehicle. He picked up two passengers in Clondalkin, west Dublin, and collided with a tree on the Fonthill Road. Both passengers were injured in the crash, one seriously. Criminal proceedings were launched, and the driver was prosecuted through the District Court. However, the case was struck out after a Garda involved in the case failed to appear in court.
The MIBI paid €100,000 to the main claimant, and pursued Mr McBride for damages. According to the chief executive of the MIBI, John Casey, there was "no co-operation" from Mr McBride and the MIBI launched legal proceedings. In January this year the MIBI secured a judgment of €169, 012 against Mr Mc Bride.
