Car owners warned over common reason for getting penalty points
UK drivers are picking up penalty points at a worrying pace for driving unsafe vehicles, according to new statistics. The RAC has discovered that the number of drivers caught operating unroadworthy vehicles has surged by over 50 per cent in just a year.
DVLA data reveals that 13,109 motorists were slapped with endorsements in 2024 for faults ranging from defective brakes and tyres to steering issues - a significant increase from 8,614 in 2023. Tyres were the most frequent problem, with 8,945 drivers penalised, while brake-related offences skyrocketed six-fold, from 181 to 1,190.
Nick Mullender, RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader, cautioned: "The steep increase in drivers receiving points on their licences for unroadworthy vehicles is a cause for alarm as it could indicate more drivers are running the gauntlet and driving unsafe vehicles ... a minority of drivers are needlessly putting the law-abiding majority at serious risk."
Chief Superintendent Marc Clothier, who heads the National Roads Policing Operation for Intelligence and Investigations, chimed in: "These figures are shocking, and if you are driving an unroadworthy vehicle with defects such as tyres or brakes, you are not only putting yourself at risk but you are putting the lives of other road users at risk too. Ensuring your vehicle is roadworthy and safe is your responsibility."
The issue is especially severe in particular areas. The East Midlands witnessed penalty numbers soar by 87%, whilst Greater London led the way with 1,765 endorsements - a 21% jump from 2023. Only certain Welsh regions went against the grain with minor decreases. eBay has also stepped forward, calling on drivers to focus on essential upkeep.
Abir Tewari, UK Director of Commercial Operations, Parts & Accessories at eBay, said: "With cars staying on the road longer, regular maintenance is more important than ever. Simple, affordable fixes like replacing wipers or headlight bulbs can make a big difference, and with tyre installation services through our trusted partners, upgrading tyres is just as seamless. eBay makes it easy for motorists to keep their vehicles safe and roadworthy."
RAC specialists suggest a swift inspection of tyres, brakes, lights, and steering could spare motorists from hefty penalties, endorsement points, or even worse consequences. With motors remaining on British roads for extended periods, basic servicing has become essential - it might mean the distinction between remaining secure or forfeiting your driving privileges.
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If you rack up 12 in a three-year period, you may be banned from driving for a period of time UK drivers are picking up penalty points at a worrying pace for driving unsafe vehicles, according to new statistics. The RAC has discovered that the number of drivers caught operating unroadworthy vehicles has surged by over 50 per cent in just a year. DVLA data reveals that 13,109 motorists were slapped with endorsements in 2024 for faults ranging from defective brakes and tyres to steering issues - a significant increase from 8,614 in 2023. Tyres were the most frequent problem, with 8,945 drivers penalised, while brake-related offences skyrocketed six-fold, from 181 to 1,190. Nick Mullender, RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader, cautioned: "The steep increase in drivers receiving points on their licences for unroadworthy vehicles is a cause for alarm as it could indicate more drivers are running the gauntlet and driving unsafe vehicles ... a minority of drivers are needlessly putting the law-abiding majority at serious risk." Chief Superintendent Marc Clothier, who heads the National Roads Policing Operation for Intelligence and Investigations, chimed in: "These figures are shocking, and if you are driving an unroadworthy vehicle with defects such as tyres or brakes, you are not only putting yourself at risk but you are putting the lives of other road users at risk too. Ensuring your vehicle is roadworthy and safe is your responsibility." The issue is especially severe in particular areas. The East Midlands witnessed penalty numbers soar by 87%, whilst Greater London led the way with 1,765 endorsements - a 21% jump from 2023. Only certain Welsh regions went against the grain with minor decreases. eBay has also stepped forward, calling on drivers to focus on essential upkeep. Abir Tewari, UK Director of Commercial Operations, Parts & Accessories at eBay, said: "With cars staying on the road longer, regular maintenance is more important than ever. Simple, affordable fixes like replacing wipers or headlight bulbs can make a big difference, and with tyre installation services through our trusted partners, upgrading tyres is just as seamless. eBay makes it easy for motorists to keep their vehicles safe and roadworthy." RAC specialists suggest a swift inspection of tyres, brakes, lights, and steering could spare motorists from hefty penalties, endorsement points, or even worse consequences. With motors remaining on British roads for extended periods, basic servicing has become essential - it might mean the distinction between remaining secure or forfeiting your driving privileges.
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