[ad_1]
The first thing many motorists do when buying a new or a used car is consider ways they can personalise it to make it feel like their own.
Popular additions can include rear view accessories, such as fuzzy dice or a large novelty air freshener.
But experts say that these accessories could hinder your chances of passing an MOT, and could even land you with a fine or penalty points.
Katie, a sign language interpreter from Newcastle, was close to failing her annual test when mechanics spotted a dream catcher hanging from her rear view mirror.
(Image: @katiehopiggy)
She said: “I never knew my rear view mirror car accessory could have led to my car failing its MOT, it’s understandable as to why it could!”
While it is not illegal to have a large accessory dangling from the mirror of your vehicle, you may breaking the law if your view of the road is obstructed in any way.
The Road Traffic Law states: “No person shall drive or cause or permit any other person to drive a motor vehicle on a road if they are in such a position that they cannot have proper control of the vehicle or have full view of the road traffic ahead.”
RAC says that this could lead to a £100 on-the-spot fine, when could increase to £1,000 if taken to court.
Insurers may also refuse to pay out if a driver is involved in an accident while driving with the obstruction in place.
And this could also have implications for your MOT.
Michael Bourne, Group Marketing Director at National Tyres and Autocare, says: “Something as simple as a rearview mirror car accessory can lead to your car failing its MOT due to failure of visibility.
“An MOT is one of the most important checks you need to remember when owning a car, alongside a regular service. Driving without a valid MOT means you will be breaking the law.
“If you are caught driving without an MOT it can lead to a £1,000 fine. If your vehicle is considered to be dangerous you can be fined £2,500, even if your MOT is still valid.
“On top of this, you can get three points on your license and if you have been convicted of driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition within the past three years, you could be disqualified from driving for at least six months”
Don’t miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond – Sign up to our daily newsletter here.
[ad_2]
Source link
