MOT: Quick checks to do before having your test
Drivers could fail their DVSA MOT test by leaving a phone holder in the wrong position ahead of their annual exam, warn specialists at Select Car Leasing.
Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing has highlighted how drivers could be caught out if the holder appears to block vision of the road ahead.
This could lead to severe backlash including the risk of fines and penalty points in a major blow.
Mr Conway explained: “The swept area of the windscreen refers to the parts of the windscreen that are cleaned by windscreen wiper blades.
“Many drivers are unaware that a poorly placed phone holder can be a major factor in MOT failures. The Highway Code states that drivers can get three penalty points if they do not have a full view of the road and traffic ahead.
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“In some cases, drivers may even be banned from driving or receive a maximum fine of £1,000.
“The Highway Code does not include specification recommendations for phone holder placement, only requiring that the device must not block your view of the road and traffic ahead.”
According to Select Car Leasing, the warning comes after they learned of a driver who had failed a test due to this simple mistake.
Nicknamed Adam, the road user later discovered the position of a phone holder placement had contributed to their failed test.
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The MOT documents reveal that having a phone holder in front of the swept area of a car windscreen is considered to be a major defect if it impairs road vision.
Select Car Leasing has urged road users to always place phone holders away from their windscreens to avoid being caught out.
Mr Conway added: “To avoid MOT failures or fines be sure to understand the best placement of phone holders on your dashboard.
“Ensure that the phone holder is attached to the lower part of the dashboard, ideally close to the centre console. This minimises the risk of obstructing the driver’s view of the road.
“Avoid placing the phone holder in areas that could interfere with the driver’s line of sight to traffic lights, road signs, or pedestrians. The goal is to ensure that you always have an unobstructed view of the road.
“Invest in a secure and stable phone holder that attaches firmly to the dashboard. Be sure to place it as low as possible to avoid blocking the swept area of the windscreen.
“Avoid flimsy or unstable mounts that may shift during driving as this poses a distraction and safety risk. Trying to adjust your device while driving can also result in a hefty fine.”
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