FOLLOWING news that the government is considering introducing MoT-style tests for cars, Lee Brooks went in search of public opinions on the streets of Douglas. The Department of Infrastructure says the primary objective for the tests would be to reduce the risk of road traffic incidents, and that older vehicles pose more of a risk.
Gavin Carter, 56, from Douglas: ‘I have no problem with MOTs in principal, cars have got to be safe. At the moment it’s a bit hit and miss, people can get away with dangerous cars. The road side checks are pretty minimal, they can’t check things like bearings and steering. I don’t know how they’d keep on top of it though!’
Craig Purvis, from Douglas: ‘I do agree with it for road safety. If the price of an MOT isn’t too high, then you may as well. Even if you can’t prove road accidents are down to mechanical faults, at least raising the standard of cars on the road helps rule out the possibility.’
Tom Brew, 28, from Douglas: ‘I think introducing an MOT is probably a good idea,’ he said. ‘You do see a lot of under-maintained cars on the roads. I think testing every couple of years would be about right, though it depends how much the test will be! It can be as much as £100 in the UK. If the car is less than three years old it probably doesn’t need it.’
Kym Holland, 37, from Douglas: ‘The standard of the roads is the main concern, which should be looked at before the standard of cars. Yes, there are plenty of poor cars around, but the only road surfaces that get proper attention are those around the TT course.’
David Saunders, from Crosby: ‘I think it’s a good idea. Road safety is one of the most important aspects. There are a lot of old bangers that should be tested. With regular vehicle tests it would be good for everyone’s confidence of what they’ll come across on the roads.’
Viv Hounslea, from Douglas: ‘Because of the size of the Isle of Man, there’s not enough road usage here compared with the UK, there’s not the same milage. And I don’t really see that many old cars around here to be fair, so I’d be against introducing compulsory vehicle tests.’
Sophia Birchall, 33, from Eairy: ‘Only if it goes on the age of the car. Otherwise it’s an additional cost on top of all the other car servicing and maintenance. People should keep cars roadworthy anyway, and if you can produce proof that your car has been serviced, you shouldn’t have to pay for an MOT on top.’
Robert Campbell, 56, from Douglas: ‘There’s some junk on the roads, so it’s a good idea in that sense. A test every few years wouldn’t be so bad. But is it all just a money making scheme for the government?’
Chris Carr, 50, from Colby: ‘I would agree with it, especially with the fact that people take cars across on the ferry. It’s not just a case of low island mileage when cars can technically go on trips to the UK, or even drive to Europe. Testing every year would be overkill though, every 24 months would be fine.’
Siobhann Lockwood, 27, from Douglas: ‘I think it’s unnecessary, because there are no major highways and motorways here like there are in countries where MOTs are mandatory. It seems like a bit of a money maker. There could be a stipulation for people who take their cars abroad though.’
