Drivers warned of MOT logjam
New research has warned that a staggering 4.3 million people could be driving illegally this autumn following the end of the MOT extension policy.
Research by Kwik Fit, which has the largest MOT network in the country, shows that 38% of drivers book their test three days or fewer before their MOT expires. With the doubling of demand for MOTs, Kwik Fit predicts that the average garage will be fully booked for MOTs before then.
This means that if drivers follow their usual habits, over the coming three months up to 4.3 million car owners will be at risk of having to drive when their MOT has expired, an offence which can lead to a £1,000 fine.
Roger Griggs, communications director at Kwik Fit, said: “The MOT is a vital safety check, but it is something that many drivers leave to the last minute to sort out and in previous years that has left some car owners driving without an MOT. The impact of Covid-19 and the MOT extension will make this problem much worse as finding available MOT appointments at short notice will be a lot trickier over the coming months.
“At Kwik Fit we already provide more MOTs than anyone else, and we are expanding our capacity wherever possible. However, we still recommend that drivers book as soon as they can.”
