One in 10 UK drivers breaking law to avoid repair costs
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 13 Oct, 12:32 · Archive
A RAC survey found one in 10 UK drivers have driven illegally by skipping MOT tests or delaying tyre replacements due to rising repair and fuel costs.
A RAC survey has found that one in 10 UK drivers have driven illegally by skipping MOT tests or delaying tyre replacements. The findings show that 3% of drivers deliberately avoided their annual MOT, while 7% failed to replace worn tyres that had fallen below the legal 1.6mm tread depth. Around 10,000 motorists received penalty points last year for operating unroadworthy vehicles.
Younger people are feeling the financial pressure most acutely. A quarter of drivers under 25 admitted putting off essential repairs or tyre changes, whilst 21% of those aged 25 to 44 took the same risk. By contrast, only 5% of drivers aged 65 and over delayed maintenance.
Motoring costs have risen significantly. The average repair bill now approaches £700, whilst 60% of drivers said maintenance and repair expenses had risen over the past year. Fuel costs have also increased, with an average petrol tank now costing £89 compared to £74 a year ago, and diesel reaching £100 against £79 previously. RAC head of policy Simon Williams said the situation was concerning, warning that ignoring mechanical faults puts lives at risk.
How it is being reported
- DVSA MOT warning as average £700 car repair bills push drivers to break the lawRAC survey reveals one in 10 UK drivers have driven illegally by skipping MOT tests or delaying tyre replacements as repair bills and fuel costs surge.Oxfordshire Guardian · 13 Oct, 11:53
- DVSA MOT warning as average £700 car repair bills push drivers to break the lawRAC survey reveals one in 10 UK drivers have driven illegally by skipping MOT tests or delaying tyre replacements as repair bills and fuel costs surge.Oxford Mail · 13 Oct, 11:53
In this story: RAC · DVSA · Simon Williams · UK
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