Brake light failure for UK motorists
One in 15 vehicles is missing one or more brake lights increasing the risk of an accident for other road users.
Research by used car retailer, Carsite.co.uk, suggests that nearly 2.5million cars, motorcycles, vans and lorries could be classified as unroadworthy and liable for a £60 fine and penalty points.
The data, gathered during busy rush hour periods, found that commercial vehicles made up 20 percent of the overall result. Six percent of all offenders were spotted with no brake lights working at all.
Whilst fewer than 200 accidents annually are attributed directly to defective lights or indicators, around 26,000 accidents a year – including 224 fatalities – are caused by misjudging another person’s speed, often a result of failing to spot another driver slowing down rapidly. A further 364 accidents are caused by drivers not displaying lights at night or in poor visibility.i
John Guess of Carsite.co.uk commented; ‘The real problem is that people don’t realise they have a faulty brake light – it’s a major concern with potentially fatal consequences. There is no excuse for commercial vehicles not having all brake lights 100% functional, but solo-commuter car drivers should be urged to check their lights with a colleague or family member at least once a week.’
The results from Carsite.co.uk are in line with data from the VOSA on MOT failure rates, which show around 15% of vehicles fail the MOT test with light problems.ii
Along with safety concerns regarding faulty brake lights, UK drivers also run the risk of on-the-spot fines from the police. Falling under the ‘CU10’ traffic offence code, police can issue penalty points to the driver and also issue a fine up to £60.
Ron Waldock, Carsite.co.uk’s independent RAC inspector added; ‘With the days shortening and the clocks about to go back, drivers will be encountering more hazardous road conditions and motorists need to be seen by their fellow road users. Our advice would be to regularly check that all your lights are clean and working correctly to make sure you are as visible as possible.’