TEST: Third of motorists risking lives
Ten million vehicle owners have risked lives by driving without an MOT, shocking new findings show.
The appalling figure – a third of all motorists – is worsened by 67% of such offenders driving for up to a week without a valid MOT, with 24% for up to a month and 7% for as long as six months.
Compiled by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the statistics also found men are more likely to offend than women.
More than a third (35%) of males have driven without an MOT, while 31% of female drivers have committed the offence.
Furthermore, the South West is the most common region for driving without an MOT (41%), with those in the East Midlands least likely to forget (15%).
Younger drivers are the biggest offenders age-wise, with 39% of motorists aged 18-24 admitting they have driven after MOT expiry.
Sue Robinson, Director of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), said: “The statistics show that a number of motorists are driving vehicles without a valid MOT, which could result in genuine safety risks to them and other road users.
“For the motorist, a visit to their local franchised dealer will ensure the highest standard of customer care, in-depth training and knowledge of the vehicle and that their car meets all safety and legal requirements.”
The fine for driving without an MOT is up to £1,000, while offenders can also invalidate their motor insurance – which itself carries six to eight penalty points.
Cars older than three years also require a valid MOT before they can be taxed – with further fines for motorists who drive an untaxed car.
The SMMT, in conjunction with Motor Codes, are launching a free MOT service reminder for motorists.
Available at www.passmymot.co.uk, the service will send motorists a reminder every year before their car’s annual test of roadworthiness is due.
Mike Baunton, Interim Chief Executive of the SMMT, said: “Each year, a significant proportion of motorists forget their car’s MOT, risking safety, fines and penalty points.
“Manufacturer main dealers are the best place to go to be sure of the most highly-trained technicians, using the parts manufacturers recommend along with the best diagnostic equipment.
“With more than 5,500 dealers across the UK carrying out free pre-MOT checks, along with an MOT reminder service run by Motor Codes, we are helping drivers to avoid basic MOT test fails by spotting simple-to-fix problems before the MOT lapses.”
Image courtesy of mrrobertwade (wadey), with thanks.
