Road safety concerns rise as lockdown eases
New research has found that thousands of motorists could be at risk as they emerge from lockdown in cars that are not roadworthy.
A survey commissioned by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) found that only 26% of motorists surveyed had checked their tyre depth during lockdown and just a third tested their brakes. Just under a third have checked water (32%) and oil (31%) levels. Yet more than one in four of those who would have used public transport now plan to use their car instead.
Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI, said: “Consumers are being encouraged to get back out into the shops and workers urged to get back to work; but at the same time asked to avoid public transport. However, the MOT on millions of vehicles has already expired, which means even the most basic checks haven’t been done.
“Indeed there are claims that more than a million vehicles due for their MOT since lockdown are likely to have failed. Combined with the fact that more than a third of the motorists don’t feel confident to do longer journeys, we are very concerned that drivers are running the risk of getting behind the wheel of unroadworthy cars, putting themselves and other road users at risk.”
The IMI also has concerns over the confidence of drivers heading back onto the road. Its research shows a third of drivers admitted they are nervous about driving long distances post lockdown; 38% admitted they have lost confidence in their driving ability.
Nash said: “It seems many drivers are nervous about getting back on the road, and their vehicles may be unroadworthy too. Which is why we are strongly urging drivers to use the IMI Professional Register to identify the local garages that employ appropriately qualified individuals, and book their car for a service and/or MOT as soon as they can.”
