Shocking new research from Britannia Rescue suggests that as many as seven million ‘illegal’ cars are currently on UK roads, as drivers continue to delay vital repairs in these difficult financial times.
Among the most common defects which are being neglected are faulty brakes, broken windscreen wipers and sub-standard brake lights.
Up to 23% of motorists have admitted to driving a vehicle with a defect, with 14% revealing that their car is in urgent need of repair.
In addition, 18% of motorists have driven without a valid MOT certificate. Such an offence can add three penalty points to the driver's license and carries a potential fine of £1,000.
Neil Greg, IAM director of policy and research, commented on a growing problem in the UK:
"In 2010, poorly maintained vehicles caused 52 road deaths. Neglecting maintenance only leads to bigger repair bills later on, lower second-hand values, and increased fuel consumption. There are also fines if you get caught.
"More frontline policing and better co-ordination between agencies such as VOSA and the DVLA will help get the worst examples off the road, but in the meantime VOSA should extend the MOT reminder scheme so that no driver can plead ignorance of their renewal date."
Police data also revealed an increase of 4% of drivers that were caught driving a vehicle that was not roadworthy during 2011. If such a trend continued to grow it could have potentially disastrous consequences for the general safety of UK drivers.
Britannia Rescue Managing Director, Peter Horton said, "At a time when money is tight and fuel prices are on the increase, motorists are looking to save cash where they can.
"Sacrificing car maintenance is a false economy, which not only increases the risk of breaking down but also puts those travelling in the car in unnecessary danger."
