Industry News from Yes Insurance

Motorists from Northern Ireland are finding they are being discriminated against when it comes to the new fixed penalty initiative, it has been claimed.

The Road Haulage Association (RHA) explained that under current rules, the police can ask for immediate payment if they suspect the driver in question does not have a permanent address within the UK.

It stated motorists from Scotland, Wales and England can show their vocational licences and a quick check can be carried out to ascertain where they are resident.

However, for people from Northern Ireland who are driving on the mainland no such procedure is in place, the group added.

As a result, drivers from the region are facing lengthy delays and significant inconvenience.

In order to minimise such hold-ups, motorists from Northern Ireland have been advised to carry additional documents which offer proof of address - such as an employment contract or utility bill.

Commenting on the issue, RHA director of policy Jack Semple said: "There is one regulation on fixed penalties in respect of UK drivers but there appears to be two enforcement policies in respect of proof of address."

Meanwhile, convicted drivers may find they have to pay more for comprehensive car insurance.

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