Latest figures released by the Motor Insurer's Bureau of Ireland (MIBI), show that claims relating to uninsured or untraced drivers increased by 17% in the first half of 2016. The news puts further pressure on already rising premium costs.

The figures show there were 1,644 claims against uninsured drivers up to July, which represents an increase of 235 claims over the corresponding period last year. 42% of all of these claims were made in the Dublin area, where the number of claims also increased steeply. 

David Fitzgerald, Chief Executive of the MIBI said, “This is a significant jump in the number of claims being lodged. It showcases the increased pipeline of payments facing the MIBI.  While no sums are yet attached to these claims, unfortunately more claims generally means higher levels of payments coming from the MIBI and ultimately, that will impact on motor insurance premiums.” He added that the MIBI were working with An Garda Síochana and other agencies to help tackle the uninsured driver issue.