Essex town near Romford tops uninsured driver hotspot list

The town of Purfleet in Thurrock, Essex – situated just south of Romford – has been revealed as the UK’s number one hotspot for uninsured drivers.

That is according to new data from the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), released 10 November 2025, which detailed the top 15 hotspots for uninsured driving across the UK.

Every UK insurer underwriting compulsory motor insurance is obliged by law to be a member of the MIB and contribute to its funding, which provides compensation to victims of accidents caused by uninsured, untraced or overseas drivers.

The second and third least insured areas were claimed by the B25 and B18 postcode regions of Birmingham – overall, Birmingham appeared four times in the top 10 worst offenders, the most of any town or city.

Postal areas in Peterborough, Sandwell in the West Midlands, Havering in East London, Manchester and Belfast also appeared in the top 10, while areas of Epping Forest, Belfast, Buckinghamshire, Bradford and Luton completed the list.

Keeping roads safe

The report author explained: “Government figures show the economic cost of uninsured driving, including compensation for victims, emergency services, medical costs and loss of productivity, is £1bn a year. Tackling this issue not only keeps our roads safe but reduces the financial burden on UK citizens.

“Whilst drivers who purposely flout the law will continue to be tackled by police, MIB is committed to reducing uninsured driving as part of its five-year strategy, Accelerating to Zero.”

As part of its plan, the MIB is also calling on the government to increase the fine for uninsured driving from £300 to £1,200.

The MIB added: “Alongside enforcement activity, MIB is highlighting common insurance mistakes and uninsured driving consequences, enabling drivers who aim to be law-abiding to make informed decisions about their motor policies.”