Over 14 million driving with damage

Over 14 million motorists have driven damaged or un-roadworthy cars on UK roads in the past two years, according to new research by Direct Line Car Insurance.

On average drivers wait almost a month and a half (43 days) before getting their car fixed and as a result risk long term damage. The research also highlighted the extent to which cars play an integral role in motorists’ lives. More than a quarter (29%) of those who have driven a damaged car, delayed getting it fixed because they rely on it to take their children to school or get to work.

Damage to body work is the most common type of problem (44%), followed by cracked or chipped windscreens (27%). A further 18% admit to driving with faulty lights and one in 10 admit to driving with bald tyres.

Vehicle damage and defects:

• Damage to body work – 44%
• Cracked or chipped windscreen – 27%
• Broken wing mirrors – 19%
• Faulty lights – 18%
• Faulty windscreen wipers – 15%
• Dashboard warning lights on – 13%
• Bald tyres – 11%
• Battery in poor condition – 9%
• Faulty steering or suspension – 9%
• Damaged brakes / grinding brakes – 6%

Gus Park, director of motor at Direct Line said, ‘Drivers are so reliant on their cars that they are even driving them when damaged, risking a hefty fine and potentially putting their lives in danger.

‘Driving damaged vehicles not only puts the driver at risk but also other road users, so we urge motorists to get their cars fixed as soon as possible.’