Uninsured motorists could face legal action - even if they don't take their vehicle out on the roads after new rules came into force.

The new powers have now taken effect and they make it an offence to keep a vehicle uninsured.

Dave Williams, from Henshalls Insurance Brokers, in Newport and Shrewsbury, said previously uninsured motorists were only at risk of prosecution when they drove their vehicle.

"But now, under the Continuous Insurance Enforcement rules, you can be prosecuted even if you don't take the car out on the roads."

The registered keeper of a vehicle must now have it insured at all times, unless they have made a statutory off road notification (SORN) or the vehicle has been kept off-road permanently since before the SORN scheme was introduced in January 1998.

"The new legislation means DVLA records will be compared with the details of vehicles held on the Motor Insurance Database.

"Then registered keepers of vehicles that do not appear in the motor insurance records will be contacted and warned they will be fined unless they take the appropriate action."

Dave said if the registered keeper continued to flout the new rules, they could face a court prosecution with a fine of up to £1000.

"Other actions could include a fixed penalty of £100 and/or the vehicle being wheel-clamped, impounded or even destroyed.

"Motorists must ensure they comply with the new rules at all times, and notify their insurance company immediately of any changes in their circumstances.

"New legislation is being introduced all the time in the motor industry, and drivers should make the time to double check their policy details carefully each time they renew their cover."

For more information about Henshalls, please visit their website here: www.henshalls.com