UNINSURED drivers are to be targeted during a month-long operation.

Cleveland and Durham Specialist Operations Unit will join other Forces across the UK to take part in Operation Drive Insured, which coincides with National Tyre Safety Month.

The operation will see roads policing officers focusing on tackling those driving uninsured and with tyre defects.

Acting Inspector Steve Cylburn, from the Cleveland and Durham Specialist Operations Unit, said: “Driving without insurance is unacceptable and can have serious implications for other road users in the event of an incident. Removing uninsured vehicles from the roads can prevent further offending and keep our roads safer.

“Officers will be using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology throughout this campaign to identify and stop motorists who may be uninsured. Any drivers found without insurance face having their vehicle seized on the spot, six points on their licence, a £300 fine and possible prosecution through court.

“We are also focusing on ensuring drivers are checking their tyres regularly to reduce the number of tyre-related incidents. It is important that vehicle owners are educated on checking for any defects and abnormalities to ensure that their vehicle is road worthy.”

If a member of the public suspects a person is driving without insurance or with faulty tyres, they can report it to Cleveland Police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.