Roadworthiness testing is a means for the State to guarantee the safety of road users. In the 1990s, roadworthiness testing was extended to all types of vehicles. Only the technical inspector approved by the Prefecture is authorised to carry out this inspection.
What are the objectives and methods of roadworthiness testing?
The first objective of the technical inspection is to ensure the safety of road users. Vehicles that do not meet the standards can be ruled out to avoid accidents caused by a technical defect. The aim is to reduce the number of injuries and deaths on the road. The other objective of the inspection was to promote the renewal of the vehicle fleet by reducing the number of old vehicles that no longer meet current safety standards.
There are two types of technical inspections, one of which is periodic, as it is carried out every 4 years on average. The other inspection is specific, as it is carried out when a vehicle is first put on the road. During the technical inspection several points will be examined such as the presentation of the vehicle, lighting and braking, in other words the general condition of the vehicle.
Penalties for failure to pass a valid roadworthiness test
In many countries, driving without a technical inspection is not without consequences. The first consequence is a fine provided for by law. The technical inspection with the unfavourable endorsement can also lead to a financial penalty for the owner of the vehicle. In addition, the administrative authorities can immediately seize the vehicle if there is a risk of an accident on the road. The registration certificate can also be seized. In this case, a provisional traffic certificate is granted to the vehicle owner. It is impossible for a person to sell a car that has not undergone a regular technical inspection, and the sale may be further delayed, such as obtaining a new vehicle registration document for the buyer.
The consequences of not having a roadworthiness test on car insurance
In the event of an accident, driving in a car whose technical inspection is invalid due to malice or involuntarily risks invalidating your insurance. In principle, the insurance that covers damage to third parties is always valid. However, the insurance relating to the owner of the vehicle is not valid if he causes damage or suffers damage at the wheel of his vehicle which does not have a valid roadworthiness test. In short, roadworthiness testing is a means of combating accidents and getting wrecks off the road.