Wilts Special Ops tweeted – #RPU stopped a van after the passenger failed to wear their seat belt… Another failure was the driver using trade plates which expired in 2018, in an unauthorised manner… on a vehicle without tax, mot, or van insurance!
A traffic stop was made on a van for a serious violation of the seatbelt law
Last week, the Wiltshire RPU (Roads Policing Unit) made a traffic stop on a van for a very serious violation.
The passenger in the vehicle was found not to be wearing their seat belt, which is a violation of the UK’s Road Traffic Act.
This law requires all vehicle occupants to wear seat belts while the vehicle is in motion, as it is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself in the event of a crash.
Driver found to be using expired trade plates in unauthorised manner
The van was found to be operating on expired trade plates, which expired in 2018. Trade plates are temporary registration plates that are issued to dealers and manufacturers for use on vehicles that are being transported, demonstrated, or tested.
They are not intended for use on a vehicle that is being used for private purposes or for carrying out a trade or business.
Van was found to be unroadworthy with no tax, MOT, or insurance
The situation was even worse when the officers discovered that the van was also unroadworthy.
The vehicle did not have any tax, MOT, or insurance, which is a clear indication that the vehicle is not roadworthy. The MOT certificate is a legal requirement in the UK and it’s issued to vehicles that have passed an annual safety inspection.
Tax and insurance are also legally required in order to drive a vehicle on public roads.
Consequences for driver and vehicle owner
These violations are extremely serious and can have severe consequences for both the driver and the vehicle’s owner. The driver could face fines, points on their licence, or even criminal charges.
The vehicle’s owner could also face penalties for allowing the vehicle to be operated without insurance, tax, or an MOT.
Legal requirements for all vehicles on public roads
It’s important to remember that all vehicles, whether they are cars, vans, or lorries, must meet legal requirements in order to be operated on public roads. This includes having a valid MOT, tax, and insurance.
Additionally, all occupants must wear seat belts while the vehicle is in motion.
Restrictions and laws regarding trade plates
Drivers should be aware of the restrictions and laws regarding trade plates, these are not meant to be used for private or commercial purposes, and can only be used under specific circumstances.
In conclusion
This news serves as a reminder to all drivers and vehicle owners to ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy and that all legal requirements, such as insurance, MOT, and tax are in place before driving on the roads.