Drivers have been warned that tougher new laws being proposed could make it illegal to use an uninsured vehicle.

The Department for Transport (DfT) has proposed new car insurance laws and if the plans enter statute, it would be an offence to own or keep a car in the UK, which does not have car insurance. Existing legislation only prohibits driving without car insurance.

Thus, punishments for not taking out cover for a vehicle would be made tougher under the new laws - with drivers facing a £100 fine if they do not take out the protection when warned.

Key figures from the car insurance industry, showed enthusiasm to the legislation proposal.

Simon Douglas, the director of AA Insurance, said: "Britain has one of Europe's worst records for uninsured drivers. We welcome this latest in a series of moves by the government to curb this scourge of British motorists."

Mike Quinton, managing director at Zurich’s Direct business in the UK, added: "The new law will make it much easier for the authorities to catch uninsured drivers and keep them off the roads. For too long, uninsured drivers have thought themselves to be above the law and this needs to stop, and stop now."