Being stopped by the police while driving

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When the police can seize your vehicle

The police can seize a vehicle if they think it’s being used in a way that causes alarm, harassment or distress, for example careless or inconsiderate driving.

They can also seize a vehicle if they think it’s:

  • being driven by someone who does not have a proper licence or insurance
  • dangerously, illegally or obstructively parked
  • broken-down or abandoned

If your vehicle is seized there’s a ‘release fee’ of up to £200 plus a storage fee of £20 for every day or part day.