British holidaymakers face significant financial penalties and safety hazards as they prepare for summer road trips, experts have warned.
Incorrectly secured roof accessories could potentially lead to fines reaching a staggering £2,500 and three penalty points.
The risks extend beyond legal consequences, as breakdown services report a dramatic increase in vehicle failures during the current heatwave.
The RAC has recorded approximately 20 per cent more breakdowns than typical for this period in July, as extreme temperatures place additional strain on vehicles.
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailing motoring@gbnews.uk
Drivers are being urged to ensure their cars are in good condition before travelling this summer
|GETTY
This surge coincides with increased holiday travel, creating a perfect storm of risk factors for unprepared motorists.
Despite these substantial threats, research indicates British drivers remain largely unaware of the regulations surrounding roof-mounted equipment and fail to adequately prepare their vehicles for hot weather conditions.
New findings from eBay expose concerning gaps in motorist knowledge, with over half lacking confidence when mounting roof equipment.
The research discovered that whilst approximately one-third of UK drivers possess either cycle carriers or roof storage units, a majority of 58 per cent remain ignorant of potential legal penalties for improper installation.
Only seven per cent said they frequently checked that their roofbox was properly secured
|EBAY
The consequences fall under Section 40A of the Road Traffic Act 1998, yet awareness remains alarmingly low.
Despite nearly one-quarter of surveyed drivers utilising these accessories multiple times weekly, merely seven per cent prioritise checking their roof-mounted equipment before journeys.
Instead, motorists focus on examining tyre pressure, cited by seven in 10, and verifying fluid levels, mentioned by 62 per cent.
However, just 22 per cent express willingness to install these accessories independently, despite widespread uncertainty about correct procedures.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
- Vauxhall owner Stellantis to make 'tough decisions' months after closing Luton factory and axing 1,100 jobs
- Motorists face premium hikes of £1,000 and 'automatic' driving ban for road offences - 'Nowhere to hide'
- Driving law changes launching within weeks will be 'make-or-break issue' for UK motorists
To address these safety concerns, eBay has developed its My Garage feature, enabling motorists to identify compatible roof-mounted accessories by entering their vehicle registration or specifications.
Abir Tewari, UK director of commercial operations, parts and accessories at eBay, said, echoed calls for motorists to ensure they are being safe.
He said: "Installation is often straightforward, but we advise motorists to take their time when fitting new accessories, follow the instructions and make sure their load is securely attached before setting off."
The breakdown service's data reveals the severity of heat-related vehicle failures, with RAC spokesperson Alice Simpson warning that the combination of elevated temperatures and increased summer travel creates heightened breakdown risks.
Motorists are also being warned of long traffic delays this summer as millions look to travel
| PAShe added: "We're seeing a surge in breakdowns as this latest period of hot weather takes hold, with up to 20 per cent more vehicles failing than expected at this point in July."
Simpson advised carrying ample water supplies for all occupants, along with sun protection including hats, sunscreen and umbrellas.
She also recommended frequent rest stops during extended journeys and, if breakdowns occur, seeking shaded areas away from traffic whilst awaiting assistance.