There was a significant drop in the number of claims relating to uninsured drivers and vehicles in Galway last year according to the latest figures.
The Motor Insurers Bureau of Ireland said that uninsured drivers accounted for over 70% of the claims it received in 2019, with the numbers largely static compared with 2018.
However, those numbers only even out because some counties saw significant decreases, while in others the number of claims went up dramatically.
There were 88 claims made to the MIBI in Galway last year, a decrease of 21% on 2018, when 112 claims were made.
The largest decrease recorded was in Roscommon, a 65% reduction in claims, followed by Monaghan (down 47%) and Laois (down 40%).Monaghan (down 47%) and Laois (down 40%).
The county with the highest percentage increase in claims was Kilkenny, which recorded a 62% jump in claims, followed by Clare (32% increase) and Longford (30% increase).
The MIBI is a not for profit organisation that was established to compensate victims of road traffic accidents caused by uninsured and unidentified vehicles.
Speaking about the claims figures, David Fitzgerald, Chief Executive of the MIBI said that they have seen little change in the last two years.
“It is particularly concerning that there has been no movement on the number of claims relating to uninsured vehicles, which suggests there continues to be a substantial number of uninsured vehicles driving on Irish roads.”
He added that it is hoped that the rollout of the new automatic number plate recognition system will make it easier for gardaí to identify uninsured drivers.
The new ANPR system allows An Garda Síochána to more easily detect if a vehicle is being driven without insurance by checking the registration plate.
“This will make it very difficult for uninsured vehicles to be driven without being detected,” David Fitzgerald said, adding “They will then face heavy penalties.”
“Anyone caught driving without insurance can have their vehicle seized on the spot, will face a mandatory court appearance, a heavy fine and five points on their licence.”
