Traffic hoping to use East Broadway to race to work were quickly brought to a standstill as one lane was closed for motorbike checks.

Traffic went as far back as Salt Kettle on Harbour Road as the Police, in conjunction with the Transport Control Department, checked for unlicensed and uninsured vehicles. Drivers were also checked for any other traffic related offences.

Dwayne Caines, the Bermuda Police Spokesperson, said: “The traffic checks will continue for uninsured and unlicensed vehicles as the Police try to decrease the number of these vehicles on the road.

“The checks will occur very often and at indiscriminate times. The Police will choose optimum times and places for stops.” The latest took place last Friday.

An uninsured vehicle and rider are a burden for the Motor Insurer’s Fund should they cause an accident or bodily harm to another individual. According to Ross Hillen, Vice President of Underwriting and Claims at BF&M: “The Fund is an agreement reached on July 1,1990 with the Minister of Transport and insurance companies that handle motor insurance. “The fund is a last resort for individuals injured by a driver who is uninsured or a hit-and-run vehicle.”

The companies collect $5 from the renewal of bikes and $10 for the renewal of cars, to add to the fund said Mr. Hillen.

He added: “There are on average something like five accidents a year reported to the Motor Insurer’s Fund.”

Mr. Hillen does believe, however, that the Police presence will “keep people on their toes” and that it is always good for the public to see the Police around.