Insurance

It is against the law to drive a car, moped or motorcycle in a public place without insurance. Insurance protects you, your vehicle and other road users against liability in the event of any incident and provides financial compensation should you ever be involved in an accident.

When you do have insurance you should check it very carefully before letting friends drive your vehicle or before you drive anyone else's. If you're involved in an incident and you are not covered there are serious consequences. The police now have 24/7 access to everyone's insurance details and if it appears that there is no or incorrect cover on your vehicle, it can be seized. It will then cost a minimum of £150 to get it back, and only after a valid certificate of insurance has been produced.

Speed Limits

If you are prosecuted for exceeding the speed limit you will get a minimum of 3 points on your licence, plus a fine. You will need to notify your insurance company and your premium may go up.

Seat Belts

Must be fitted front and rear and must be worn. As a driver you are legally responsible for any passengers under the age of 14 and can be fined if they do not wear a seat belt.

Tyres

Each tyre must be free from cuts and splits and have 1.6mm of tread across 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre.

The Highway Code - Vehicle maintenance, safety and security

Fog lights

Fog lights should only be used in conditions of fog or adverse weather, where visibility is drastically reduced. They should not be used simply because it is thought to be fashionable or to make the car look cool!

MOT

All vehicles which are more than 3 years old will require an MOT certificate. Your insurance requires you to make sure that your vehicle is road legal. If you are involved in an accident without an MOT your insurance company may refuse to pay out.