Honourable Keith Milligan, Minister of Transportation and Public Works, today responded to the Atlantic Canada survey results released by the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) on uninsured motorists.
Mr. Milligan stated, "My Department continues to be an avid supporter of compulsory automobile insurance. Under the Highway Traffic Act drivers convicted of operating a vehicle with no insurance can be penalized a minimum fine of $600 or 7 days, and a maximum fine of $2000 or 14 days."
According to IBC, the study indicated that 4.6% of the private passenger vehicles registered on Prince Edward Island are being operated without insurance coverage and IBC is calling for the Province to impose stricter penalties for driving without insurance.
In the 4 year period from 1992 to 1996 Highway Safety division records indicate two findings; the number of convictions for operating a non-insured vehicle was less than 2%, and, less than 2% of all motor vehicle collisions involved a non-insured vehicle.
The Minister said, "I believe the penalties currently in place do serve as a deterrent to the majority of Islanders."
During 1995 over 6000 vehicle owners were contacted by the Department with regard to insurance issues, most of these having come from the insurance industry.
Mr. Milligan concluded, "Having insurance does not prevent collisions, but it is a responsibility which motorists must take seriously, and my Department will continue to be vigilant in seeking compliance."
For more information, please contact John MacDonald, 368-5223.