The inability of many Londoners to find cheap car insurance has led to an epidemic of uninsured drivers, according to new figures released by the Motor Insurers Bureau.
While acknowledging that cheap car insurance was becoming increasingly hard to find, the MIB said that driving without insurance was a serious offence.
"We understand that times are tough and finances may be squeezed but motor insurance is a legal requirement," commented MIB Chief Executive Ashton West.
"There are ways in which drivers can save on costs and stay adequately insured, such as shopping around for quotes, opting for pay-as-you-drive cover or taking advanced driving lessons."
Based on the MIB figures, around 10% of all motorists currently driving in London are uninsured, while the total for Britain's roads stands at around 1.5 million. Last year alone, nearly 200,000 drivers were convicted of the offence.
The MIB is the body responsible for paying out settlements to the victims of accidents caused by uninsured drivers. It is funded by the motor insurance industry, which has to provide tens-of-millions of pounds each year, placing a significant burden on insurers and further reducing the quote-seeker's chances of finding cheap car insurance.