Drivers issued urgent MOT warning ahead of summer months as millions scramble for tests
Experts have called on drivers to book their MOT tests as soon as possible
THE MOTOR OMBUDSMAN
Drivers could face a huge £1,000 fine for not having a valid MOT this summer as experts call on motorists to book a test as soon as possible to avoid long delays.
Millions of drivers are set to travel across the UK and Europe in the coming weeks as they look to make the most of the nice weather and celebrate the holidays with their families.
While many will be embarking on a longer staycation, experts are warning that they could be slapped with fines unless they take steps to ensure their car is roadworthy.
Motorists can be fined up to £1,000 for driving a vehicle without a valid MOT, as well as points on their licence and invalidated insurance if they are involved in an accident.
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Drivers can be fined if they do not get an MOT test every year
PABritons can get an MOT for up to a month (minus a day) before it runs out and keep the same renewal date, which can help drivers keep on top of their motoring requirements.
Experts have also stressed the importance of booking their annual safety test with plenty of time to spare before a rush in bookings from drivers, usually during the holidays or before major events.
Rebecca Pullan, managing director at Carmaster Garage in Harrogate, which The Motor Ombudsman accredits, said it is a good idea to bring their car to the garage for routine checks at least once a year.
She added: "Many drivers like to schedule their MOT and annual service for the same time, as they’re just making one trip to the garage.
"However, ‘uncoupling’ these visits means vehicle owners are much more likely to catch small issues before they become serious problems. This can therefore help avoid incurring unwanted expense in the long run.”
She highlighted that there is no grace period once an MOT certificate becomes void, potentially opening up thousands of drivers to be liable for fines.
Pullan stressed the importance of securing an appointment in advance, especially before the summer months when millions of motorists could be looking to get their cars checked before a lengthy trip.
If someone's MOT has run out, they should register their vehicle as "off-road" through a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN). They can then book an MOT test and tax their vehicle once they have passed.
However, drivers must be aware that they cannot drive or park their vehicle on the road if the MOT has run out, as drivers could be prosecuted if they get caught.
There are only two exceptions for motorists to do this, including if they are driving it to or from somewhere to get repaired or if they are taking it to a pre-arranged MOT test.
Bill Fennell, chief ombudsman and managing director of The Motor Ombudsman, said drivers who own cars or three or more years of age need to ensure they bring their vehicles for the annual assessment as soon as possible.
He added: "This gives a better chance of securing a booking at their preferred business, whilst it also helps spread the workload for MOT stations, particularly in locations across the country where garages may be busy.
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Drivers are being urged to take their car for an MOT test before the summer rush
PA"There are handy free-of-charge MOT reminder services available that can send a text or an email direct to your smartphone to give you advance notice of a certificate expiring.
"It is therefore worth signing up to keep this important date in the vehicle ownership calendar front of mind, and to avoid a last-minute scramble to secure a slot on the ramp.”