Recent findings have revealed the amount of uninsured drivers on UK roads has risen to 33 per cent this year from last year, according to a price comparison website.

The survey by a leading price comparison site found a fifth of motorists or 20 per cent, admit to breaking the law by driving uninsured, compared to 15 per cent in 2008. Almost a tenth of motorists (nine per cent of motorists) have disregarded the law and driven their own car without insurance.

Eight per cent were found have got behind the wheel of another motorist's vehicle when they are not adequately insured to do so. A further three per cent say they have driven their own car uninsured in between renewing their insurance policy.

Male and younger driver most likely to go uninsured

Men are more likely to drive uninsured, with 23 per cent of them, admitting to it compared to just 16 per cent of women. The poll also exposes that 37 per cent of younger drivers of motorists in their 20’s say that they have driven without cover, compared to just seven per cent of those in their sixties.

Steve Sweeney, head of motor insurance at the price comparison website, said: "How disappointing to see so many Brits have taken to the roads uninsured - it's a worrying thought every fifth car we see isn't covered, and year on year the research reveals a staggering 33 per cent increase in the number of people driving uninsured."

Mr Sweeney added: "The onset of recession may mean more motorists are unable to afford the cost of their insurance but, if hit by an uninsured vehicle, only motorists with a fully comprehensive policy will be covered by their insurer to pay for the car to be repaired, and even then they may face losing their no claims discount.

"Organisations such as the Motor Insurers' Bureau offer advice on how to make a claim under the Uninsured Drivers' Agreement. Whatever the distance driving without insurance is illegal. Anyone caught doing so could face hefty penalties which include a £200 on-the-spot fine and six points on their licence.

Non-insurance a false economy

"There's also the possibility of the car being impounded - involving a £150 collection charge and £20 per day charged for storage. If Brits are forgoing their motor insurance for cost reasons it clearly is a false economy."

He concluded by saying that: "Uninsured motorists cost the industry £500 million each year in claims, and cause the cost of cover to rise by £30 for more responsible motorists. By covering yourself to drive a car, you are not only protecting yourself in the event of an accident, theft or damage, but you are safeguarding yourself against other less cautious motorists as well.

"The cost of running, and insuring, a car can be expensive - especially for younger drivers - however it is quicker and easier than ever to find a cheap motor insurance quote.

Motorists have reminded about certain measures can help to lower their car insurance policies, such as choosing a smaller engine, shopping around for cheaper cover, increasing the level of excess on the policy as well as younger drivers and those who have recently passes to take a pass plus course, which can provide vital lessons for improved driving skills.