Drivers warned they could be fined £1,000 for 'serious' mistake amid cost of living crisis

Motorists have been warned that they could be fined £1,000 for a 'serious mistake' in the face of a cost of living crisis.

LV= General Insurance (LV= GI) said its findings suggest some motorists are avoiding replacing and servicing early signs of wear and tear on their vehicle over concerns with rising living costs. According to their provider, Britannia Rescue, the number of call-outs where vehicles did not have an MOT was 78 per cent higher in January 2023 compared with March 2022.

LV='s network of repair garages also said it had seen a sharp rise in a lack of maintenance for vehicles. According to them, common issues include worn tyres, advances driver assistance systems (ADAS) not being calibrated correctly, warning lights on dashboards, chipped or cracked windscreens, and wear to brake pads.

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However, motorists are ignoring warnings of faults which could lead to an increase in accidents and risk danger to others on the roads, LV= warned. Michael Golding, network manager at LV= GI said: “The data we’re seeing is worrying, as this neglect could easily impact the safety of a vehicle and could put yourself, passengers and others in real danger.

“In light of the cost of living, spending additional money on a car can be frustrating, but we hope this demonstrates the important safety aspect and why it’s crucial warning signs aren’t ignored. With more cars being rescued without a MOT, this can also have serious consequences and a fine of up to £1,000.”

Tom Hadfield, commercial director at Vella Group Repair Centres, said: “When inspecting vehicles, we often see instances where customers haven’t maintained their car. Typical examples might include tyre