The Institute of the Motor Industry in the UK has warned that many drivers are seriously unprepared for post lockdown driving, both in terms of their vehicles and their driving confidence.

A survey commissioned by the IMI has found that a third of drivers are nervous about going on longer journeys, while a quarter are concerned their car might break down through lack of use. It also found that on average UK motorists have driven just 26 miles since lockdown. Also 61% of people living in or around London plan to use their car instead of public transport in the coming weeks.

With only a quarter of drivers having checked their tyres and a third having tested their brakes, the IMI is urging motorists to get ‘locked down cars’ checked by a professional.

The risk of vehicles in poor condition is heightened in the UK as a result of the government’s 6 month extension on MOTs. Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI explained, “Consumers are being encouraged to get back out into the shops and workers urged to get back to work; but at the same time asked to avoid public transport. However, the MOT on millions of vehicles has already expired, which means even the most basic checks haven’t been done. Indeed there are claims that more than a million vehicles due for their MOT since lockdown are likely to have failed. Combined with the fact that more than a third of the motorists don’t feel confident to do longer journeys, we are very concerned that drivers are running the risk of getting behind the wheel of unroadworthy cars, putting themselves and other road users at risk.”

The IMI is urging motorists to do some basic checks, as a minimum, and if at all possible, to get their vehicle checked over by a professional before they embark on longer journeys.