The number of motor insurance claims involving uninsured drivers has risen by almost 20 per cent in the first half this year, compared to the same period last year.

Figures from the Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland show there's been an increase in the number of claims in 20 counties.

Figures from the Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland show there was 1,644 claims involving uninsured or untraceable drivers between January and the end of July.

That's a 17% rise on the first half of last year.

42% of those uninsured claims were in Dublin.

The capital also saw the largest increase in the number of claims made with 78 more than last year.

Cork and Galway recorded the next highest increases.

20 counties in total recorded an increase in the number of claims in the first 7 months of the year.

Four counties saw a drop in the number of claims - with Limerick having 15 less than last year.

It comes as figures show an increase of more than 30 per cent in the cost of car insurance over the last year.

Insurance providers say this is because of an increase in the number of claims - and if the number of incidents involving uninsured drivers continues to increase, that cost is likely to be passed on to the consumer again.