Vehicle seizure figures top 200

Owners without insurance face having their cars crushed

More than 200 vehicles have been taken off roads in the Lothians and Scottish Borders areas since the introduction of new police powers two months ago.

Legislation now allows cars to be seized if they are being driven without valid insurance or a driving licence.

Drivers face fines to recover vehicles which can be scrapped if motorists fail to provide proper documentation.

Since police started using the powers on 7 June, 219 vehicles have been taken off the streets and 72 scrapped.

The vehicles were disposed of after their owners failed to respond to letters sent to them.

The problems caused by people driving without insurance can be devastating, especially to those who are victims of road accidents caused by someone driving illegally Ch Insp Kenny Buchanan

Vehicles seized included a Vauxhall Astra Sri Turbo 170, Mercedes 208 Sprint, Suzuki Vitara, Honda CRV and Ford Transit pick-ups.

The seizures came under the Road Traffic Act (Retention and Disposal of Seized Motor Vehicles) Regulations.

Chief Inspector Kenny Buchanan said the new legislation gave police powers to help reduce road casualties and disrupt criminal activity.

'Greatly inconvenient'

"The problems caused by people driving without insurance can be devastating, especially to those who are victims of road accidents caused by someone driving illegally," he said.

"It will also disrupt criminals as there is no doubt in my mind that some of the vehicles are being used for illegal purposes."

He said the message should be clear to drivers that getting proper documentation was the cheapest option.

"It could prove to be a very expensive and greatly inconvenient process in losing your vehicle," he said.

In addition to these vehicles seizures, 402 drivers and 84 vehicle owners have been sent vehicle-warning letters under Asbo legislation, with 34 vehicles being seized.