Drivers warned about hidden windscreen wiper danger that could cost them £5,000
UK drivers could be unknowingly putting themselves in danger—and at risk of a hefty £5,000 fine—due to a simple yet overlooked car maintenance issue.
Windscreen wipers can wear out without obvious signs, reducing visibility in poor weather and potentially leading to serious accidents.
Experts from Tollwayr, a leading authority on car travel and compliance, warn that failing to check and replace faulty wipers could not only put lives at risk but also result in severe penalties under UK road laws.
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With unpredictable British weather making clear visibility crucial, now is the time for drivers to act.
A clear, unobstructed view of the road is a legal requirement under the Highway Code (Rule 97) and the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986.
If your windscreen wipers are found to be defective and your visibility is impaired as a result, you could be charged with driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition—a serious offence that carries a fine of up to £5,000, three penalty points, or even a driving ban in extreme cases.
Beyond the legal implications, faulty wipers drastically increase the risk of accidents, particularly during heavy rain, fog, or winter conditions.
A study by the RAC Foundation found that poor visibility is a contributing factor in 2% of all road accidents—a statistic that may seem small but equates to thousands of avoidable crashes every year.
How to check if your windscreen wipers are safe
Windscreen wipers should be inspected every few months and replaced at least once a year or as soon as you notice signs of wear. Here’s how to check if yours are still safe to use:
Listen for unusual noises. If your wipers squeak, skip, or drag, it’s a sign they’re worn out.
Check for streaks or smudging. Wipers should clear water completely. Streaking indicates worn rubber.
Inspect the rubber. Cracks, splits, or peeling mean the wipers are no longer effective.
Look at the frame. A bent or damaged wiper arm won’t provide even pressure across the windscreen.
Test them in different conditions. Spray washer fluid and observe whether the wipers clear it efficiently.
What happens if you fail an MOT due to wipers?
Faulty windscreen wipers can cause an MOT failure, meaning you’ll be unable to legally drive your vehicle until the issue is fixed. According to DVSA data, visibility-related failures—including defective wipers—account for 8.5% of all MOT failures in the UK.
Replacing them before your test is an inexpensive fix that could save you the cost of rebooking an MOT.
With unpredictable UK weather, functioning wipers are essential for road safety. A quick check today could prevent a fine, an MOT failure, or worse—a serious accident.