Find Financial News Online

Complacency causes breakdown cover calls and accidents. Drivers should make sure their vehicles are safe and get suspected mechanical faults looked at to avoid needing to call on breakdown cover or having an accident.

Research from road safety organisation Brake and insurer Direct Line revealed that 42% of drivers admit they have got behind the wheel of a vehicle with at least one serious fault in the last year.

The defects included broken lights and indicators, poor tyre treads and pressures, incorrect oil or water levels and faulty braking systems.

Some 73% of the motorists surveyed confessed their vehicle’s brakes are only checked at annual MOTs and 84% of drivers did not know how worn they were at the time of this inspection.

“This research shows a shockingly low level of knowledge and concern among drivers when it comes to the safety of their vehicle, particularly ‘out of sight, out of mind’ components such as brakes which are so safety-critical,” said Mary Williams OBE, chief executive of Brake.

Recent snow and ice means checking a vehicle for faults or damage is even more important if an accident or breakdown is to be avoided. M&S Money has recommended motorists check tyres and anti-freeze levels before getting behind the wheel.

Similar Posts:

• Car insurance customers worried by wintry weather
• Which are the worst states for tickets?
• Business Insurance
• Research from credit card provider Sainsbury’s Finance: British motorists could save money by haggling
• Travel insurance firm covers airline failure