Why Untaxed Cars Are On The Increase?
There are now more untaxed vehicles on the road than ever which is costing the Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency, DVLA, and the tax payer around £107m each, but why is this?
What is to blame?
It is believed that cancelling the printed tax disc in the Chancellor’s 2013 Autumn Statement, and switching to a fully digital system would make renewals, easier, quicker and potentially save the DVLA up to £10m annually.
The latest report from the Department from Transport, however, shows that that the number of vehicles evading road tax, vehicle excise duty (VED), has more than tripled since the change came into place. With more than half the vehicles involved unlicensed for two months or less.
Previously, in 2014 owners could sell cars with unexpired tax, now owners have to contact the DVLA for a refund and the buyer needs to buy tax before they can collect the car. It does seem that many buyers and sellers do not understand the new system, which may explain just why VED is not being paid.
"The fine for driving without car tax can be up to £1000"
What are the consequences?
Driving without road tax is a serious offence, even if it is done unintentionally. The fine can be substantial, as much as £1,000, or five times the annual road tax. Indeed, causing or permitting someone to drive without road tax – carries a fine of up to £1,000, or up to £2,500 if the vehicle can carry more than eight passengers.
The best way to guard against any forgetful moments, would be to make sure you are signed up for a free MotorEasy account. This is set-up using a minimal amount of information, just a registration number, mileage and service date and then we will automatically keep you up-to-date with all your important motoring dates including car tax.
The added benefit is that MotorEasy will even let you know if your car has been requested as part of a manufacturer recall. Most important of all it could save you a £1000 fine.
