THOUSANDS of motorists in the region are driving illegally and at risk of hefty fines because they cannot afford to get their car through an MOT.

A study looking into how many drivers forgot to MOT their car revealed that more than 11.6m drivers in the UK had not had their car tested on time.

Commissioned by Kwik Fit, the study found that just over 1.4m people - equating to one in 10 drivers - across the country could not afford to get the work needed to gain a pass.

An MOT, which is due three years after a vehicle is first registered on the road, needs to be carried out every year in order for the government to ensure it is roadworthy.

The Northern Echo: Failing to have an MOT can cost youFailing to have an MOT can cost you

Vehicles which have a 'Major' or 'Dangerous' fault are not allowed back on the road unless remedial work has been carried out - sometimes costing thousands of pounds.

'Mainly in drivers between 18 and 34'

Further findings from the study also found the average length of time drivers had driven without a valid MOT was around the two month mark.

It said drivers aged between 18 and 34 were five times more likely to be a serial offender, compared with drivers aged 55 and above.

However, forgetfulness was found to be the overall most common reason by failing to get an MOT.

'Concerning to see'

Roger Griggs of Kwik Fit said: “It is concerning to see that people are knowingly or unwittingly driving a vehicle which could pose a danger to them or other road users.

"Allowing a vehicle’s MOT to expire is not only potentially dangerous, there is also the chance of a significant financial penalty and in some cases, it could cost someone their licence.

“We understand that people have busy lives and MOT dates can slip off the calendar or a ‘to do’ list.

"We would encourage drivers who don’t have a note of their expiry date to check it and get it marked in the calendar with plenty of time, to avoid any issues. 

"March is a peak month for MOTs and so drivers should book as far in advance as possible to ensure they don’t end up driving illegally.” 

Criminal Offence

According to the Department for Transport, you can be fined up to £2,500, be banned from driving and get 3 penalty points for driving a vehicle that has failed its MOT because of a ‘dangerous’ problem.