Though medical insurance is provided by the government in the UK, motorists must obtain their own auto insurance through a private company. The law has been in place since 1930, when it was decided that every person who operates a motor vehicle on UK roads and highways must have at least third party automobile insurance.

The reason why motorists are required to have insurance is fairly simple. In short, it protects against damage to personal property (vehicles) and covers liability for injuries that may be sustained in a crash. Driving without a valid certificate of insurance can result in fines and even imprisonment.

In the most extreme cases, when uninsured motorist have injured or even killed other drivers in an accident, they will almost certainly be held financially and criminally responsible for all or most of the damages. Insurance and the law is fairly straightforward, as all motorists are expected to present a valid certificate of insurance if they are stopped by a police officer.

Failure to produce proof of insurance may result in serious fines or suspension of driving privileges. In fact, the only place where a resident of the UK can operate a motor vehicle of any kind without insurance is on his own property. These vehicles often include farm equipment and recreational vehicles like dune buggies.

How much insurance do you need? A motorist is only required to have basic third party insurance to drive in the UK. However, it is recommended that you obtain insurance that includes a good deal of liability coverage. If not, it is likely that you will have to pay out of pocket if you are ever involved in an accident.