How Many Of Us Have Driven Without A Valid MOT?

Figures released today by the Society of Motor Manufacturing and Traders (SMMT) reveal that one third of UK drivers have driven their cars without a valid MOT. The findings show that:

1. 10 million vehicle owners have driven with no MOT. 2. 67 per cent admitted driving for up to a week without a valid MOT certificate; 24 per cent for up to a month; seven per cent for as long as six months. 3. Men are more likely than women to drive after the MOT test has lapsed. 4. The South West is the most common region where people drive without a valid MOT; those in the East Midlands were the least likely to forget the test.

Interestingly, 39.3 per cent of those aged between 18 and 24 (the highest offenders) have driven without a valid MOT. This compares to 36.1 per cent in the 25-34 age bracket, 30.7 per cent aged between 35-44 and 28 and 28.2 per cent of drivers aged 45-54 and 55+ respectively.

I'm sure you'll agree that these figures come as quite a shock. After all, the maximum fine drivers can be given for the offence is £1000; not to mention the fact that driving without a valid MOT 'may invalidate your insurance', according to the Gov.uk rules for drivers and motorcyclists website. The only exception which allows you to drive without an MOT is if you are driving to a 'pre-arranged test appointment or to a garage for repairs required for the test'.

With this in mind, I wonder how many of us (the majority of whom are aged between 18-30) have driven without a valid MOT, knowingly or otherwise? (This poll is strictly confidential).

Poll