Number of unsafe vehicles on UK roads rises by more than 50%

The number of drivers penalised for driving unroadworthy vehicles on UK roads has risen by 52% in just 12 months, according to data analysed by the RAC.

Using data from a freedom of information request, the breakdown service provider found that 13,109 drivers received penalty points in 2024 for driving cars that were unsafe for road use, up from 8614 the year before.

Defective tyres were the most common reason drivers received points, with 8945 people penalised for their condition.

Penalties for defective brakes saw the largest year-on-year increase, with a total of 1190 drivers receiving points – more than six times the figure of just 181 in 2023.

Drivers in Greater London were the most common recipients of penalties for using unsafe vehicles, at 1765. In second place was Yorkshire and the Humber, with 1373 drivers penalised in 2024.

According to the RAC, these figures are “just the tip of the iceberg”, as they only represent drivers who have actually been caught by police. Nearly 10 million MOT tests are failed each year, meaning that the number of vehicles that are unsafe but are still being driven is likely to be even higher.

Nick Mullender, RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader, 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.

“Every driver has a legal responsibility to ensure the vehicle they’re driving is roadworthy, even between regular services and MOTs. We strongly urge drivers to keep on top of routine maintenance and get any issues checked by a well-qualified mobile mechanic or reputable garage.”

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