The number of people penalised for driving unroadworthy vehicles has gone up by 52% in a year, according to the RAC.
It analysed data received from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency following a Freedom of Information request and found that 13,109 points were given to drivers in 2024 for driving vehicles with defective brakes, tyres, steering or other problems.
This is a substantial increase of 4,495 endorsements compared to the 8,614 points issued in 2023.
However, the RAC believes these figures do not reveal the true extent of the number of unroadworthy vehicles on UK roads as they only represent those who have been caught.
Tyres
Driving a vehicle with defective tyres was the biggest reason motorists received points last year with 8,945 people stopped compared to 6,196 in 2023, an increase of 44%. Meanwhile, the number of people who received points for driving with defective brakes rose from 181 to 1,190, and 2,974 endorsements were handed to drivers for other problems such as defective steering, up from 2,237 the previous year.
RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader Nick Mullender said: “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 – although it’s also possible more drivers are being caught by the police.
“Whether it’s brakes, tyres, steering or something else, every mechanical component in a vehicle plays a critical role in ensuring it can be driven safely and confidently. By getting behind the wheel of vehicles that are defective, a minority of drivers are needlessly putting the law-abiding majority at serious risk.”
Shocking figures
Chief Superintendent at the National Roads Policing Operation for Intelligence and Investigations Marc Clothier added: “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 to drive is your responsibility and we would encourage everyone to routinely check their vehicle before getting behind the wheel.”
